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Alternative Dressings in Diabetic Ulcers
In diabetic foot care, selecting the right wound dressing is vital to aid healing and prevent infection. Dressings protect the wound and cater to specific ulcer needs. Non-stick dressings are gentle on delicate skin, preventing adherence that could cause irritation. For wounds with heavy fluid, foam and gel dressings are excellent for absorbing excess moisture. Hydrogels help with the natural breakdown of dead tissue, making them suitable for wounds with dry, necrotic areas. Antimicrobial dressings with iodine or silver help reduce infection, although sealed dressings are not recommended if an infection is present, as they can trap bacteria. Dressings should be changed frequently, particularly in highly draining ulcers, to prevent skin breakdown surrounding the wound. If you have a diabetic foot wound, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can examine your wound, and recommend the best dressing choice for your ulcer’s 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 Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. 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 offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
What Is a Tarsal Condition?
The talocalcaneal coalition is a common type of tarsal coalition, a condition where two or more tarsal bones in the foot are abnormally connected, often leading to restricted movement and pain. This subtype involves the fusion of the talus and calcaneus bones, impacting foot flexibility. Another frequent subtype is the calcaneonavicular coalition, where the calcaneus and navicular bones are fused. The calcaneus is the heel bone at the back of the foot. The navicular is in the midfoot, in front of the ankle bone or talus, and helps support the arch. Both coalitions are typically congenital, meaning they are present at birth, although symptoms often do not appear until adolescence when the bones fully mature. Symptoms include stiffness, pain in the foot or ankle, and a flat-footed appearance due to limited movement in the hindfoot. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through X-rays, CT, or MRI scans. Treatment may involve rest, orthotics, or targeted exercises. In severe cases, surgery is needed to resection the coalition and restore mobility, significantly improving long-term outcomes. If you have symptoms as described above, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. James Kutchback of James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Rare Foot Conditions
The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist. Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care.
There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:
- Freiberg’s disease
- Kohler’s disease
- Maffucci syndrome
Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp.
Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.
Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking.
A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?
Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
What Can Cause Poor Circulation in the Feet
Poor circulation in the feet can result from several underlying health issues, significantly impacting overall well-being. Atherosclerosis, a condition where arteries become narrowed due to plaque buildup, restricts blood flow and can lead to inadequate circulation in the lower extremities. High blood pressure is another contributing factor, as it can damage blood vessels over time, further impeding blood flow. Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a narrowing of the arteries specifically in the legs and feet, leading to pain and numbness during physical activity. Heart failure can also cause poor circulation, as the heart struggles to pump blood effectively, resulting in reduced blood supply to the extremities. If you have poor circulation in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is and offer effective treatment solutions.
Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. James Kutchback of James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Poor Circulation in the Feet
Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.
Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.
Causes
Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:
- Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness
- Numbness or cramping in the legs
- Skin discoloration
- Slower nail & hair growth
- Erectile dysfunction
Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.
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 offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Understanding Clubfoot
Clubfoot, or talipes equinovarus, is a congenital condition where a newborn’s foot appears twisted or turned inward. The exact causes of clubfoot are not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. In many cases, clubfoot occurs in isolation, but it can also be associated with other congenital conditions. The Ponseti method is a widely recognized treatment for clubfoot, involving a series of gentle manipulations and the application of casts to gradually correct the foot’s position. This method is typically initiated shortly after birth and aims to achieve a functional and pain-free foot. After the initial treatment, a brace is often used to maintain the corrected position. Early diagnosis and intervention are critical for successful treatment, allowing children to develop normally and engage in activities without limitations. If your child has been born with clubfoot, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist on your healthcare team who can help you to properly monitor and manage this condition.
Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. James Kutchback of James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.
What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?
A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.
What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?
Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:
- Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
- Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
- Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
- Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
- Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
- Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.
Treatment and Prevention
While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Children’s Foot Pain That Requires Care
Foot pain is common in active children due to sports, play, or growth. While many foot aches resolve on their own with rest, certain symptoms can signify severe foot problems that need podiatric attention. If your child is unable to move or stand on their foot, or if the foot appears twisted or out of place, it could indicate a more serious injury. An unstable foot when stepping down is also a sign that something is wrong. Infections in the foot can present as increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness. Red streaks leading from the sore area or pus draining from a spot on the foot should not be ignored, especially if your child develops a fever. In these cases, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat conditions early to prevent long-term complications.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. James Kutchback of James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
- Make sure their shoes fit properly
- Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
- Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
- Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
- Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
- Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
- Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
- Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?
Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.
Foot and Ankle Injuries From Pickleball
Foot and ankle injuries are common in pickleball, a fast-paced sport that involves quick movements and sudden changes in direction. Ankle sprains are one of the most frequent injuries, occurring when the ligaments around the ankle are overstretched. Achilles tendon injuries can also happen, often due to overuse or abrupt movements like lunging or jumping. Prevention is key and involves wearing supportive shoes with good traction, warming up properly, and strengthening the muscles surrounding the foot and ankle. Without proper care, these injuries can become chronic, leading to persistent pain, instability, and limited mobility. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury in pickleball, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can diagnose the injury and provide treatment.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Dr. James Kutchback of James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Plantar Fasciosis
- Achilles Tendinitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
How Diabetes Can Affect the Feet
Diabetes can have serious effects on the feet due to poor circulation and nerve damage, known as diabetic neuropathy. Reduced blood flow to the feet can delay the healing of cuts, blisters, or sores, increasing the risk of infections and, in severe cases, leading to ulcers or even amputation. Neuropathy can cause a loss of sensation in the feet, making it harder to detect injuries or changes in skin condition, which can go unnoticed and worsen over time. A podiatrist plays a critical role in diabetic foot care. They can perform regular foot exams to identify problems early, treat wounds, and recommend proper footwear or custom orthotics to prevent pressure points. Podiatrists also offer guidance on daily foot care routines, such as inspecting feet for sores and maintaining good hygiene. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you schedule routine podiatric visits to help manage diabetes-related foot complications and reduce the risk of serious issues.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
- Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
- Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
- Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
How Running Surfaces Affect the Feet
Different running surfaces affect your feet in distinct ways, and understanding these differences can help prevent injuries. Running on concrete, a common surface, is challenging for the feet due to its hardness, which leads to more stress on the joints. Asphalt is a bit more forgiving but still causes significant impact. Dirt trails provide a softer experience, but uneven terrain increases the risk of falls or ankle injuries. Sand strengthens muscles but also can strain the ankles, while grass is gentler on joints but is often uneven. Tracks and treadmills offer cushioned, consistent surfaces, which reduce stress but may lack variety. Runners can benefit from alternating between these surfaces to avoid overuse injuries and improve overall foot health. A podiatrist can help evaluate foot pain caused by running and recommend strategies to avoid injury. If you are a runner who has foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. James Kutchback of James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.
What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.
Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.