Diabetes can damage nerves in the feet, which reduces the ability to feel pain, heat, or injury. This makes it harder to notice cuts, sores, or blisters, and can lead to serious infections if they are not treated promptly. Poor blood flow, another complication of diabetes, can make wounds slower to heal and more likely to become infected, or turn into ulcers. Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in the toes or feet may be early signs of nerve damage. Other signs include dry or cracked skin, foot ulcers, thickened toenails, and changes in foot shape. People with diabetes should be aware that even minor foot problems can quickly worsen without proper care. A podiatrist can examine the feet, check for signs of nerve damage or reduced circulation, and provide early treatment to prevent complications. If you are  experiencing diabetic foot problems, it is suggested that you  are under the care of a podiatrist for management of this serious condition.

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 one of our podiatrists from Boca Raton Podiatry . Our doctors 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 Boca Raton, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Each foot contains 26 bones that work together to absorb impact and support movement. These bones may break due to direct trauma, crush injuries, twisting forces, or repetitive stress. Fractures can happen suddenly from falls or gradually from overuse. Common signs of a broken foot include pain, swelling, bruising, limping, and difficulty bearing weight. Some fractures may lead to visible deformity or joint misalignment. In certain cases, people with conditions like diabetes may not feel pain, making swelling or bruising the only warning signs. Foot fractures can affect the heel, midfoot, toes, or metatarsals, and may require different types of treatment based on the bone involved. A podiatrist can diagnose fractures using a physical exam, checking for tenderness, deformity, or restricted movement. X-rays are often used to confirm the injury, but advanced imaging like CT scans may be necessary for complex fractures. If you believe you have broken a bone in your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an immediate appointment with a podiatrist..

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Boca Raton Podiatry . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

The feet contain 26 bones each, creating numerous joints and surfaces where bone spurs may develop from repeated stress, inflammation, or injury. These bony growths, known as osteophytes, often form when the body responds to pressure or friction. If conservative care does not ease symptoms, a podiatrist may suggest surgery to remove the bone spur or address any tight tissues that may be contributing to discomfort. Resection surgery trims away the excess bone, and the type depends on the location. A dorsal spur excision is on the top of the foot, an inferior heel spur resection is under the heel, and a posterior heel spur removal is at the back of the heel. If soft tissue is involved, plantar fascia release or partial Achilles tendon release may be employed. In cases of severe joint damage, joint fusion can stabilize the area while joint replacement can restore movement. If you are experiencing this type of foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Boca Raton Podiatry . Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Achilles tendinopathy causes pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Achilles tendinopathy often develops gradually, due to repeated strain on the tendon, especially in people who run or participate in sports that involve jumping. Overuse, poor training habits, and exercising on hard or sloped surfaces can increase the risk of tendon damage. Rapidly increasing workout intensity or wearing shoes that lack proper support may also place extra stress on the Achilles tendon. People with flat feet or limited ankle flexibility may be more vulnerable. Achilles tendinopathy tends to worsen with activity and can limit daily movement, especially after rest periods. A podiatrist can diagnose the cause of the pain and assess the extent of tendon damage. If you are experiencing pain in the Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Boca Raton Podiatry . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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