Preventing diabetic foot infections is imperative for individuals with diabetes, as they are more prone to sores and wounds on their feet. High blood sugar levels can damage nerves, leading to neuropathy, and reduce blood flow, making it harder for injuries to heal and increasing the risk of infection. Without proper care, even small cuts or blisters can develop into serious infections. To prevent these issues, diabetic patients should perform daily foot inspections, checking for any cuts, redness, or swelling. Moisturizing regularly can help to prevent dry, cracked skin that can become infected. Wearing properly fitting shoes that do not cause pressure points or blisters is essential, as is keeping feet clean and dry. Avoiding extreme temperatures protects against burns or frostbite, which can go unnoticed due to nerve damage. Nails should be cut straight across to prevent ingrown nails, which can also become infected. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you make regular appointments with a podiatrist to manage your foot health and address any concerns before they escalate.

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 Donald Manger, DPM from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. 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 office located in Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Children commonly experience a variety of foot problems as they grow. Sprains are frequent, often resulting from sports or rough play, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty in walking. Prompt treatment with rest and elevation is essential to prevent further injury. In-toeing and out-toeing, where a child's feet point inward or outward while walking, are common developmental issues. Most cases resolve as the child grows, but persistent problems may require evaluation by a podiatrist. Athlete's foot, a fungal infection, causes itching, redness, and peeling, usually between the toes. It is prevalent in children who wear tight, sweaty shoes. Fungal nail infections, another concern, lead to thickened, discolored nails that may become brittle. Maintaining proper foot hygiene, wearing appropriately sized shoes, and addressing any foot pain early are key to preventing complications. If your child has any foot or ankle issues, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Donald Manger, DPM of Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

Choosing shoes that fit well is essential for foot health, as wearing poorly fitting shoes can lead to discomfort and may even cause foot problems. To find the perfect fit, it is best to measure your feet while in a shoe store, ensuring you account for length, width, and arch length. Foot size and shape can change over time due to aging, so relying on old measurements is not recommended. Shopping for shoes later in the day when your feet are naturally swollen helps ensure a better fit. Standing during measurement provides a more accurate size, as weight distribution affects foot shape. It is also important to prioritize fit over size labels, as these can vary between brands. Always try on shoes with the socks or hosiery you intend to wear with them, ensuring enough room for movement in the toe box and a slight space at the heel to prevent blisters. Shoes can help with foot problems, but they can also cause problems if they do not fit well. If you are seeking tips for buyng shoes that fit properly to avoid possible uncomfortable foot conditions,  it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Donald Manger, DPM from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. 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 our office located in Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Corns form in the feet when skin is subjected to continuous pressure or friction, commonly on the toes and soles. At first, the skin thickens, creating a callus. But persistent pressure can transform this into a painful corn, which can be recognized by a raised, yellowish-beige surface and a defined hard core. Corns between toes are often softer and whitish due to moisture. Causes include wearing tight shoes, foot deformities, and joint diseases, which heighten pressure on specific areas. Risk increases with age and dry skin. Recognizing a corn is straightforward, but differentiation from similar issues like warts may require a podiatrist’s expertise. Effective treatment involves eliminating the source of the pressure, wearing shoes that fit properly, and possibly using pads or insoles. Removing a corn yourself is discouraged, as unsafe conditions can prompt an infection. If you have painful corns on the feet or toes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Donald Manger, DPM of Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. 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 our office located in Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.