Foot ulcers are a serious concern for individuals with diabetes. Ulcers in the lower extremities are caused by many factors, including nerve damage and poor circulation. These are common complications of diabetes. When a wound or sore develops on the foot, decreased feeling caused by neuropathy can make it difficult to notice. This can lead to delays in treatment and allow time for the wound to worsen. On top of that, impaired circulation interferes with the body's ability to heal, causing diabetic foot ulcers to heal more slowly and become more prone to infection. Without proper care, diabetic foot ulcers can become severe, potentially leading to serious problems such as tissue damage and even amputation. Diabetics need to prioritize foot care as part of their management plan. This includes daily foot inspections, appropriate footwear, maintaining blood sugar levels, and seeking immediate medical attention for any foot complications. Podiatrists play an important role in managing diabetic foot ulcers with specialized care and treatment to promote healing and prevent further complications. If you have developed a diabetic foot ulcer, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist immediately for an exam and treatment.

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 Edward S. Pozarny DPM from Arlington Podiatry Center. 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 office located in Arlington, VA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete's foot, a type of tinea infection caused by a fungus, thrives in warm, moist environments, making your feet an ideal breeding ground. However, it's not just athletes who are at risk. Anyone can develop this irritating skin condition. The symptoms of Athlete's foot vary depending on the affected area of the foot involved, ranging from a red, flaky rash to itchy blisters and discolored nails. Some cases of athlete’s foot may require prescription medication, especially if the infection persists or spreads. If you're experiencing recurring symptoms, have multiple affected areas, or notice pus or discharge, it's of extreme importance to seek medical attention from a podiatrist. This foot doctor can accurately diagnose the problem and recommend an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your needs. Maintaining good personal hygiene and keeping your feet dry are essential steps in preventing athlete's foot. If you need help managing tinea infections, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist as soon as possible.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Edward S. Pozarny DPM from Arlington Podiatry Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

An infected toe often presents with redness, swelling, and pain, sometimes accompanied by pus or an unpleasant odor. Several factors can lead to this condition. Injuries, such as stubbing your toe or dropping something heavy on it, can create openings for bacteria. Microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi, can infiltrate these wounds or even enter through small cracks in dry skin. Natural toe growth, particularly when nails grow inward, can push into the skin and cause infection. Foot yeast infections, commonly known as athlete's foot, can also escalate into bacterial infections if not treated promptly. Additionally, individuals with diabetes are at a higher risk due to poor circulation and impaired immune response, which can make even minor infections more severe. If your toe has become infected, it is suggested that you promptly visit a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment solutions.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Edward S. Pozarny DPM of Arlington Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Arlington, VA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.