Diabetic foot ulcers and peripheral neuropathy are common complications of diabetes, often resulting in significant pain and discomfort. Neuropathy, caused by prolonged high blood sugar levels, damages the nerves, leading to numbness, tingling, and pain in the feet. Ulcers develop due to reduced blood flow and the inability to sense injuries, allowing minor wounds to progress into serious infections. Assessment involves a thorough examination of the feet, checking for signs of neuropathy, poor circulation, and existing ulcers. Podiatrists use tools like monofilaments to test sensation and Doppler devices to assess blood flow. Management focuses on controlling blood sugar levels, proper wound care, and preventing further complications. Pain from neuropathy is treated with medications, while ulcers require cleaning, debridement, and specialized dressings. Custom orthotics and appropriate footwear can alleviate pressure on affected areas. If you suffer from diabetic-related foot problems, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist for optimal care. 

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 Dawn Miles, DPM from Florida. 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 one of our offices located in Palatka and Saint Augustine, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Edema, which is caused by excess fluid retention in the body, can also result in the development of blisters on the feet. These blisters are caused by the swelling that occurs when fluid collects in the tissues, causing pressure to be put on the skin. The skin then becomes more susceptible to friction and rubbing, especially in areas where it makes contact with shoes or socks. The increased friction can cause the formation of blisters, which can lead to pain and discomfort. Blisters caused by edema mainly appear on the feet and ankles, making daily activities like walking and wearing shoes difficult and painful. It is important to address the underlying cause of edema to prevent the formation of blisters. A podiatrist can provide personalized treatment options to manage edema and alleviate foot discomfort. Recommendations include compression socks or orthotic inserts to reduce swelling and friction. If you are developing blisters caused by edema, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Dawn Miles, DPM of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Palatka and Saint Augustine, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle sprains and strains are injuries that can significantly impact your mobility and daily activities. A sprain occurs when the ligaments, which are the tough bands of tissue connecting bones at the ankle joint, are abnormally stretched or torn. Conversely, a strain involves similar damage but affects muscles or tendons, which are the tissues that connect muscles to ankle bones. These injuries can result from repetitive motions or a sudden incident, like a twist or fall. Diagnosis by a podiatrist typically involves a medical history review and physical examination, and may include imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs. While most sprains and strains heal over time with rest, bracing, and anti-inflammatory medications, more severe cases may require surgery for a full recovery. It is important to manage these injuries properly to prevent chronic pain or instability. If you experience an ankle sprain or strain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis, tailored treatment plan, and guidance on rehabilitation exercises. 

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Dawn Miles, DPM from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Palatka and Saint Augustine, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Choosing the right shoes for restaurant workers is essential for their comfort, safety, and overall performance in a fast-paced environment. When selecting footwear, prioritize shoes that offer slip resistance to prevent accidents on wet or greasy surfaces commonly found in kitchens and dining areas. Look for styles with durable, non-slip soles that provide reliable traction. Additionally, opt for shoes with reinforced toes and sturdy construction to protect against dropped objects and other workplace hazards. Comfort is just as important, as restaurant workers spend long hours on their feet. Look for shoes with ample cushioning and arch support to reduce foot fatigue and minimize the risk of injuries like plantar fasciitis. Consider choosing shoes made from breathable materials to keep feet cool and dry during busy shifts. By prioritizing slip resistance, comfort, and breathability, restaurant workers can find the perfect footwear to support them through demanding shifts. If you have developed foot conditions from wearing the wrong shoes while working, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist. This foot doctor can offer effective treatment solutions and guide you on how to find the right shoes for your workday.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dawn Miles, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Palatka and Saint Augustine, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Corns are identified as patches of thickened skin and are a common foot problem that can cause discomfort and pain if left untreated. Understanding different types of corns can help in effectively managing and preventing them. Hard corns, the most prevalent type, typically develop on the tops and sides of toes or weight-bearing areas of the foot. These corns are compact and dense, often caused by friction or pressure from wearing ill-fitting shoes or repetitive motion. Conversely, soft corns tend to form between toes where sweat and moisture accumulate. These corns are softer in texture and can be more painful due to increased moisture levels. Finally, seed corns are tiny, discrete corns that often appear on the bottom of the foot. They are generally painless but can cause discomfort when walking. If you have a corn on your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can identify which type it is, and offer you correct treatment solutions.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dawn Miles, DPM of Florida. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Palatka and Saint Augustine, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.