Items filtered by date: October 2024

Diabetic foot ulcers are common complications that arise from prolonged high blood sugar levels, leading to nerve damage and poor circulation. These factors increase the risk of injury, as decreased sensation can prevent individuals from noticing cuts or blisters that may develop into ulcers. Caring for diabetic foot ulcers involves keeping the wound clean and covered, monitoring for signs of infection, and maintaining proper blood sugar levels to promote healing. Regular foot inspections and gentle cleaning with mild soap and water are essential. Risk factors for developing these ulcers include neuropathy, poor circulation, wearing improper footwear, and foot deformities. Maintaining a healthy weight and managing diabetes through diet and exercise can further reduce the risk. If you have diabetes and have developed a foot ulcer, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Steven Ginex, DPM from Palm Desert Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Palm Desert, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, particularly between the toes. Key signs include itching, burning, and redness, often accompanied by peeling or cracking skin. In more severe cases, blisters may develop, leading to further discomfort and possible secondary infections. The primary cause of athlete’s foot is the fungus known as trichophyton, which thrives in warm, damp environments, and tight-fitting shoes. Factors like excessive sweating, poor foot hygiene, and sharing personal items can increase the risk of infection. Understanding these signs and causes is essential for early identification and effective treatment. If you have symptoms of athlete’s  foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and treatment solutions.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Steven Ginex, DPM from Palm Desert Podiatry.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Palm Desert, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Flat feet, or fallen arches, are common in children and can be attributed to various factors. Genetic predisposition often plays a significant role, as flat feet can run in families. In many cases, children may develop arches as they grow, but some may continue to have flat feet into adulthood. Other contributing factors include ligament laxity and muscle weakness, which can affect the foot's structure. Symptoms of flat feet often include discomfort or pain in the feet, especially after prolonged activity. Children may also experience fatigue, difficulty standing for long periods, or balance issues. Flat feet can lead to complications such as pain in the knees, hips, or lower back. If your child is experiencing pain or discomfort from having flat feet, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide effective relief solutions.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Steven Ginex, DPM from Palm Desert Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Palm Desert, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel spurs are bony growths that form on the bottom of the heel bone. They often form as a result of prolonged strain on the muscles and ligaments in the foot. Repetitive activities like walking, running, or standing on hard surfaces can contribute to the development of a heel spur. Wearing poorly fitted shoes without adequate cushioning can also contribute to their formation. People with arthritis or plantar fasciitis, or who are carrying excess weight are at higher risk for developing heel spurs. Symptoms of heel spurs include heel pain, swelling, and warmth in the affected area, but some people may experience no symptoms at all. For that reason these growths are often detected through X-rays taken for other foot issues. Treatment options for painful heel spurs include stretching exercises, footwear modifications, or medication to reduce pain and prevent further complications. If you have unexplained heel pain, it may be due to a heel spur, and it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Steven Ginex, DPM from Palm Desert Podiatry. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Palm Desert, CA . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Poor circulation in the legs and feet, often due to peripheral artery disease, or PAD, occurs when narrowed arteries reduce blood flow. Symptoms include coldness, numbness, tingling, cramping, or pain in the legs or feet, particularly while walking. The skin may appear pale or bluish, and slow-healing wounds or sores can develop on the lower extremities. Diagnosis involves a physical exam, checking pulses in the feet, and tests to measure blood pressure differences between the arms and legs. Ultrasound or angiography may also be used to evaluate blood flow. Treatment aims to improve circulation through lifestyle changes like exercise and managing conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. Medications may be prescribed, and in severe cases, procedures to open or bypass blocked arteries are necessary. If you have symptoms of poor circulation in your feet, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can help manage symptoms and prevent complications like foot ulcers or infections.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Steven Ginex, DPM of Palm Desert Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Palm Desert, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.