CHRONIC FOOT & HEALTH CONDITIONS
Managing Chronic Foot & Health Conditions
Chronic foot and health conditions, such as diabetic foot care, foot ulcers, and nerve pain, can lead to serious complications if not properly managed. Poor blood flow and gout can cause pain and swelling, while nerve issues may result in tingling, numbness, or burning sensations. For individuals at risk of falls, foot problems can significantly impact balance and mobility. Early intervention and regular care are essential to managing these conditions, with treatment options like custom footwear, wound care, medications, and physical therapy helping to improve function and prevent further issues.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetic Foot Care – Neuropathy
People with diabetes are at risk for developing foot problems due to two main issues: nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation. Neuropathy can lead to loss of sensation in the feet, making it difficult to feel pain or discomfort. Poor circulation, on the other hand, can slow the healing process and increase the risk of infections. At Peoria Foot and Ankle, we are committed to helping you take proactive steps to protect your feet and prevent serious complications.
How Diabetes Affects Your Feet
Diabetes can cause a variety of foot issues, often due to nerve damage and reduced blood flow. Here’s how these problems can impact your foot health:
Nerve Damage (Neuropathy): You may lose feeling in your feet, making it difficult to detect cuts, blisters, or injuries that could lead to infection.
Poor Circulation: Decreased blood flow can slow the healing of minor wounds, increasing the risk of infection. Even small injuries can turn serious without proper care.
If left untreated, what starts as a small cut or blister can lead to infections and, in extreme cases, may require amputation. That’s why it’s crucial to stay on top of your foot care.
Diabetic Foot Care Guidelines
Taking care of your feet is essential to prevent serious complications. Here are some simple guidelines to help keep your feet healthy:
Check Your Feet Every Day: Look for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or changes in nail appearance. Use a mirror to check the bottoms of your feet and call your doctor if you notice anything unusual.
Wash Your Feet Carefully: Wash your feet daily with warm (not hot) water. Avoid soaking your feet for long periods. Gently clean them with a soft washcloth or sponge, making sure to dry them thoroughly, especially between your toes.
Moisturize (But Not Between Toes): Keep your feet hydrated with a lotion or cream to prevent dry, cracked skin. Avoid moisturizing between your toes to prevent fungal infections.
Trim Your Nails Carefully: Cut toenails straight across and gently file the edges to avoid ingrown nails. Don’t cut them too short. If you’re unsure how to trim them safely, consult your doctor.
Don’t Treat Corns or Calluses Yourself: Never use medicated pads or cut corns and calluses on your own. Visit your doctor or a foot specialist for safe removal and treatment.
Wear Clean, Dry Socks: Change your socks every day to keep your feet dry and comfortable. Diabetic socks, which are cushioned, moisture-wicking, and feature non-tight elastic tops, are a great option.
Wear Socks at Night: If your feet get cold at night, wear socks to bed. Avoid using heating pads or hot water bottles, as they can burn your skin without you noticing.
Check Your Shoes: Always inspect your shoes before wearing them. Shake them out and check inside for stones or objects that could cause injury to your feet.
Keep Your Feet Dry and Warm: Avoid walking in wet conditions, and wear warm socks and shoes in cold weather. If you experience sweaty feet, using an antiperspirant on the soles can help manage moisture.
Never Walk Barefoot: Always wear shoes or slippers, even indoors. Walking barefoot increases the risk of cuts and injuries that you might not feel due to neuropathy.
Manage Your Diabetes: Keep your blood sugar levels in check to help prevent complications and improve circulation to your feet.
Don’t Smoke: Smoking constricts blood vessels and reduces blood flow to your feet, making it harder for them to heal.
See Your Doctor Regularly: Regular visits to your foot and ankle specialist are key to catching problems early and avoiding complications. If you have diabetes, it’s especially important to have your feet checked at least once a year.
At Peoria Foot and Ankle, we’re here to help you manage your foot health if you’re living with diabetes. Early intervention and consistent foot care can prevent major complications and improve your quality of life. If you have any concerns or need a foot check-up, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Foot Ulcers
Foot Ulcers
A foot ulcer is an open sore or wound that develops on the skin of your foot. These ulcers occur when the outer layers of the skin break down, exposing the deeper tissues beneath. They can be caused by various factors, including pressure from poorly fitting shoes, long periods of immobility, or an injury that damages the skin. Foot ulcers are especially common in people with diabetes, nerve damage (neuropathy), or poor circulation (vascular disease).
If left untreated, foot ulcers can lead to serious complications, such as infections in the skin and bone. That’s why it’s important to catch any ulcers early and get proper treatment to avoid further complications.
Symptoms of a Foot Ulcer
If you have a foot ulcer, you may notice the following signs:
Drainage or Fluid: Oozing from the wound, which may vary in color.
Odor: A strong, unpleasant smell coming from the ulcer.
Redness, Swelling, or Thickening: The skin around the ulcer may become inflamed or feel thicker than usual.
Pain: Some people experience pain, while others—particularly those with nerve damage—may not feel discomfort at all.
Even if there’s no pain, it’s important to monitor your feet closely for any of these signs. Early detection can help prevent further issues.
Diagnosing a Foot Ulcer
To diagnose a foot ulcer, your doctor will likely:
Examine the Wound: Your doctor will assess the size, depth, and condition of the ulcer.
Take an X-ray: This helps determine if the bone has been affected or if there’s an infection in the bone.
Additional Tests: Your doctor may perform vascular studies to check your blood flow, which is important for healing. Poor circulation can delay recovery and increase the risk of complications.
These steps help your doctor determine the best treatment plan for your specific needs.
Treatment for Foot Ulcers
The primary goal of foot ulcer treatment is to promote healing and prevent infection or further complications. Treatment may include:
Cleaning the Wound (Debridement): Your doctor will remove any damaged or dead tissue from the ulcer to help it heal more effectively.
Relieving Pressure: Special shoes, padding, or orthotic devices are often used to reduce pressure on the ulcer and prevent further injury.
Treating Infection: If the ulcer is infected, antibiotics will be prescribed to clear the infection and prevent it from spreading.
Advanced Wound Care: In more severe cases, advanced wound care treatments such as specialized dressings or wound care therapies may be needed. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove infected tissue or promote healing.
Preventing Foot Ulcers
For individuals with diabetes or other conditions that affect the feet, regular foot exams and prompt treatment of any ulcers are crucial. Early intervention helps prevent serious complications, like infections or amputations. Additionally, practicing good foot care habits—such as wearing proper shoes, managing blood sugar levels, and avoiding injury—can reduce the risk of developing foot ulcers in the first place.
If you have concerns about foot ulcers or other foot conditions, don’t hesitate to reach out to our office. At Peoria Foot and Ankle, we specialize in diagnosing and treating foot ulcers to help you avoid complications and get back on your feet as quickly as possible.
Nerve Pain
Foot Nerve Pain (Neuropathy):
Foot nerve pain, also known as neuropathy, is a common issue for people with diabetes or other conditions that affect nerve health. Neuropathy occurs when the nerves in your feet become damaged, leading to symptoms like burning, tingling, sharp pain, numbness, or a “pins and needles” sensation. You may also have difficulty feeling hot or cold temperatures, making it harder to detect injuries such as cuts, blisters, or sores on your feet.
This condition can make daily activities—like walking, standing, or even wearing shoes—uncomfortable or painful. If left unmanaged, foot nerve pain can also increase your risk of injury, as you may not feel damage to your feet that would normally cause pain.
Symptoms of Foot Nerve Pain
If you have foot nerve pain, you may experience:
Burning or Tingling: Often felt, especially at night, in the feet and toes.
Sharp, Stabbing Pain: It may feel like “electric shocks” or sudden, intense pain.
Numbness: A loss of sensation or feeling in your feet, which can make it difficult to notice injuries.
Sensitive Skin: Your feet may become hypersensitive, with even light touch causing pain.
Weakness: This can affect your balance and walking, making it harder to perform normal activities.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to talk to your doctor as soon as possible. Early intervention can help manage symptoms and prevent further nerve damage.
How Foot Nerve Pain Happens
Neuropathy can have several causes, but the most common is diabetes. High blood sugar levels over time can damage the nerves in your feet, leading to pain and numbness. Other causes include:
Poor Circulation: Reduced blood flow can damage nerves over time.
Injury: Nerve damage due to trauma or repeated pressure on the feet.
Certain Medications: Some medications can have side effects that affect nerve health.
Vitamin Deficiencies: A lack of Vitamin B12, for example, can lead to nerve damage.
Alcohol Use: Chronic alcohol consumption can also affect nerve function.
Treatment for Foot Nerve Pain
Managing foot nerve pain involves controlling symptoms and addressing the underlying causes. Common treatment options include:
Controlling Blood Sugar: Keeping blood sugar levels within the target range is crucial for slowing or preventing nerve damage in people with diabetes.
Pain Management: Medications such as pain relievers, anti-seizure drugs, or antidepressants can help alleviate nerve pain.
Topical Treatments: Creams or patches with numbing agents (like lidocaine) can provide temporary relief from nerve pain.
Foot Care: Regular foot exams are vital to detect cuts, blisters, or sores you may not feel due to nerve damage. Special shoes or inserts can help protect your feet from further injury or pressure.
Physical Therapy: If nerve pain is affecting your ability to walk or balance, physical therapy may be recommended to improve foot function and reduce discomfort.
In some cases, your doctor may suggest nerve-stimulating devices or additional treatments aimed at improving nerve health.
Preventing Foot Nerve Pain
Although nerve damage can’t always be reversed, there are steps you can take to protect your feet and manage symptoms:
Check Your Feet Daily: Look for any cuts, blisters, or sores—especially if you have diabetes. If you can’t reach or see your feet easily, use a mirror or ask someone to help.
Wear Well-Fitting Shoes: Avoid shoes that cause friction or pressure. Choose comfortable, properly sized shoes to reduce the risk of injury.
Manage Your Diabetes: Keeping your blood sugar levels within the recommended range can help slow or prevent further nerve damage.
Avoid Smoking: Smoking restricts blood flow to your feet, which can worsen neuropathy symptoms.
Protect Your Feet from Injury: Always wear shoes, even at home, to avoid cuts and abrasions.
If you’re experiencing foot nerve pain or have concerns about your foot health, don’t wait to seek help. With the right care and treatment, you can manage symptoms, protect your feet from further damage, and improve your quality of life.
Gout
Gout
Gout is a type of arthritis that causes sudden, intense pain, redness, and swelling in the joints, most often in the big toe. It occurs when there’s a buildup of uric acid in the blood, which forms sharp crystals in the joints, leading to inflammation and severe discomfort. While it can affect other joints, the feet—particularly the big toe—are most commonly impacted, making it difficult to walk or even touch the affected area.
Gout often presents in “attacks” or flare-ups, where the symptoms come on suddenly and can last for hours or even days before subsiding. While the pain can be excruciating, gout is manageable with proper treatment and lifestyle changes.
Symptoms of Gout
If you have gout, you may experience the following symptoms:
Severe pain in the affected joint, most commonly in the big toe, but it can also affect the ankle, knee, or other joints.
Redness and swelling around the joint, which may feel warm to the touch.
Tenderness to even light pressure, making it painful to touch or even allow a blanket to rest on the affected joint.
Limited range of motion in the joint, making it difficult to move or use the affected foot.
Nighttime attacks, where the pain can begin suddenly and wake you up from sleep.
Causes of Gout
Gout is caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is a natural byproduct of breaking down purines found in certain foods like red meat, shellfish, and alcohol. Under normal circumstances, uric acid is filtered out by the kidneys and passed out of the body in urine. However, if your body produces too much uric acid or your kidneys aren’t able to eliminate it effectively, it can build up and form crystals in the joints, leading to pain and inflammation.
There are several factors that increase your risk of gout:
Diet: Eating foods high in purines, like red meat, organ meats, and shellfish, can raise uric acid levels.
Obesity: Being overweight can increase uric acid production and decrease the body’s ability to remove it.
Medical conditions: Conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and kidney disease can raise your risk of developing gout.
Genetics: A family history of gout can make you more likely to experience it.
Medications: Some medications, like diuretics used for high blood pressure, can increase uric acid levels.
Treatment for Gout
Fortunately, gout is treatable, and there are several methods to manage the symptoms and reduce the risk of flare-ups:
Medications:
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) can help reduce pain and swelling during flare-ups.
Colchicine can reduce inflammation and prevent future attacks.
Allopurinol and other medications can lower uric acid levels over the long term.
Lifestyle changes:
Diet: Reducing foods high in purines, such as red meat, shellfish, and alcohol, is important.
Weight management: Losing excess weight can help lower uric acid production and improve overall health.
Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps the kidneys flush out uric acid, reducing the chances of crystal formation.
Rest and elevation: During a gout flare-up, resting and elevating the affected foot can help reduce swelling and pain.
If gout causes joint damage or results in the formation of tophi (deposits of uric acid crystals), surgery may be required to remove the crystals.
Preventing Gout
While gout can be managed, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of future flare-ups:
Eat a balanced diet: Focus on a healthy diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting high-purine foods like red meat, shellfish, and alcohol.
Maintain a healthy weight: Losing weight can reduce uric acid levels and lower the frequency of gout attacks.
Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water helps flush out excess uric acid from the body.
Follow prescribed medications: If your doctor has prescribed medication to control uric acid levels, be sure to take it as directed.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of gout or have had previous attacks, it’s important to consult with your doctor for the right treatment plan. With the proper care and lifestyle adjustments, gout can be managed effectively, minimizing the risk of future flare-ups.
If you have any questions about managing gout or experiencing symptoms, seeking early care and adjusting your lifestyle can significantly improve your quality of life and reduce the frequency of painful attacks.
Blood Flow
Blood Flow in Your Feet
Good blood flow is essential for the health of your feet. It delivers oxygen and nutrients to the tissues in your feet and helps remove waste products. Without proper circulation, your feet can suffer, and healing becomes much slower, particularly when dealing with injuries or infections.
When blood flow to the feet is inadequate, it can lead to several problems, such as pain, swelling, slow healing, and even more serious issues like ulcers or infections. People with conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or peripheral artery disease (PAD) are especially at risk for poor circulation in the feet.
How Blood Flow Works in Your Feet
Blood is pumped from the heart through the arteries, which then branch out into smaller blood vessels to supply oxygen and nutrients to all parts of your body, including your feet. The veins carry the blood back toward the heart. However, if the arteries in your feet become narrowed or blocked, it reduces the amount of blood reaching your feet. This condition is called poor circulation or peripheral artery disease (PAD).
Reduced blood flow to your feet can cause several symptoms and increase your risk for infections and slow healing. It’s important to recognize these symptoms early to address the issue before it leads to more serious complications.
Signs of Poor Blood Flow in Your Feet
If you’re experiencing poor circulation in your feet, you may notice one or more of the following symptoms:
Pain or cramping in your feet or legs, particularly when walking
Cold feet or feeling like your feet are colder than the rest of your body
Swelling in your feet or ankles
Numbness or tingling sensations in your feet
Slow-healing wounds or sores on your feet
Changes in skin color, such as pale or bluish skin
Shiny or tight skin on your feet or legs
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to consult with your doctor to assess your blood flow and determine the appropriate treatment.
Causes of Poor Blood Flow
Several conditions can reduce blood flow to your feet, including:
Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves, leading to reduced circulation.
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): A condition where the arteries in your legs and feet become narrowed or blocked, reducing blood flow.
High blood pressure: Contributes to the hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), which can impair circulation.
Heart disease: If the heart is not pumping blood efficiently, it can result in poor circulation in the feet.
Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the feet.
Obesity: Excess weight can put additional pressure on blood vessels, affecting circulation.
How to Improve Blood Flow in Your Feet
There are several things you can do to help improve circulation and keep your feet healthy:
Exercise regularly: Walking, swimming, or other forms of light exercise can help improve circulation.
Elevate your feet: When resting, try elevating your feet to promote blood flow back to the heart.
Quit smoking: Smoking harms blood vessels and can worsen circulation issues.
Wear comfortable shoes: Avoid shoes that pinch or put pressure on your feet, as they can restrict blood flow.
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps your blood flow smoothly.
Manage health conditions: Keeping blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels under control can help prevent circulatory problems.
When to See a Doctor
If you’re experiencing signs of poor circulation, or if you have risk factors like diabetes or heart disease, it’s essential to consult with your doctor. They can evaluate your blood flow, recommend appropriate treatments, and help you prevent complications like slow-healing wounds, infections, or ulcers.
By improving circulation and following your doctor’s advice, you can maintain healthy feet and reduce the risks associated with circulation-related issues.
Fall Risk
Fall Risk and Your Feet
Falls are a common concern, especially as we age, and certain foot problems or changes in balance can increase the risk. Your feet are the foundation of your body, so when there are issues with them, it can affect your stability and coordination. Foot pain, weakness, or circulation problems can make you more prone to falling. The good news is that there are steps you can take to reduce your fall risk and stay safe on your feet.
How Foot Health Affects Fall Risk
Your feet play a crucial role in your overall balance. If they’re not in good condition, it can make walking and staying steady more difficult. Several foot-related issues can increase your risk of falling:
Weak or painful feet: If you’re experiencing foot pain or weakness, it can change the way you walk, making you more likely to trip or lose your balance.
Poor circulation or numbness: Conditions like neuropathy or poor blood flow can cause numbness or tingling in your feet. This can affect your ability to sense the ground and adjust your balance accordingly.
Foot deformities: Issues like bunions, hammertoes, or other deformities can cause pain and difficulty while walking, which can increase your risk of falling.
Unsteady gait: If you’re having trouble walking due to discomfort or weakness, your gait may become unsteady, making you more prone to falls.
Signs You Might Be at Risk of Falling
There are certain signs to watch out for that can indicate a higher risk of falling:
Painful or sore feet: Persistent foot pain can make walking uncomfortable and increase your risk of falling.
Frequent tripping or stumbling: If you notice that you’re tripping often or feeling unsteady while walking, it could be a sign of balance problems.
Feeling lightheaded or dizzy: Dizziness can throw off your balance, making falls more likely.
Foot numbness or tingling: Reduced feeling in your feet due to nerve damage or poor circulation can make it harder to react to obstacles or adjust your stance.
Difficulty standing or walking: If you’re having trouble standing up from a seated position or walking without support, it’s important to seek help.
How to Reduce Fall Risk
There are several steps you can take to help lower your fall risk:
Take care of your feet: Check your feet regularly for any sores, blisters, or other problems. Keep them clean, moisturized, and make sure to trim your nails to avoid tripping on them.
Wear proper footwear: Choose shoes with a good fit and supportive soles. Avoid high heels or shoes with slippery soles, as they can increase the risk of tripping.
Exercise to improve strength and balance: Engaging in regular physical activity, like walking or balance exercises, can strengthen your legs and improve your coordination.
Stay active: Keeping your muscles strong and flexible will help maintain your balance. If you’re unsure which exercises would be beneficial for fall prevention, ask your doctor for advice.
Make your home safer: Eliminate tripping hazards, like loose rugs or clutter. Install handrails where needed and make sure your home is well-lit to avoid accidents.
How we can help.
If you’re concerned about your fall risk or if you’ve experienced a fall, it’s important to let us know. We can assess your feet, balance, and overall health to help create a plan tailored to your needs. Whether it’s addressing foot pain, improving balance, or making home modifications, there are steps we can take to help reduce your fall risk.
Taking care of your feet, staying active, and making a few changes can go a long way in keeping you safe and steady on your feet. If you have any questions or would like more guidance on improving your balance, we’re here to assist you!