Diabetes can unfortunately cause many foot problems that often lead to a great deal of pain and discomfort. For example, poor circulation of the feet is often an issue among those with diabetes because it damages the nerves. When this occurs, it’s likely for one to develop peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy can make it feel like you have pins and needles in your feet. Others who have experienced this condition have also recalled a burning, tingling, or numbing sensation.

Since nerves are often damaged due to diabetes, the issue of not feeling when a wound has developed can lead to serious complications. Minor cuts or scrapes on the foot may run the risk of getting infected if the feet are not checked daily for wounds. Diabetes may also reduce blood flow to the feet, which in turn can make it harder for wounds to heal. With that being said, it’s important you seek professional help for treating any foot ailments. To prevent yourself from running the risk of developing a serious foot condition, it’s recommended that you wash and dry your feet daily, cut your toenails carefully, keep your feet moisturized, check them regularly for any abnormalities, and keep your feet warm and dry.

For more advice on how to care for diabetic feet and for professional treatment, make an appointment with our office today!

If you happen to wear tight fitting shoes or tend to stand for the majority of your day, it’s likely that you may develop a foot condition known as a corn. When frequent friction or pressure is put on the foot, a small, hardened lump may form in that area. A corn may have a yellow hue and can typically be found on the side of the toes, as well as on the bottom of the feet. Though they are generally harmless, corns can often bring many patients discomfort.

To help prevent yourself from developing a corn, it’s important to wear shoes that give your toes enough room to comfortably move around. Some patients may also find it useful to soak the feet with warm water, pat them dry, and apply a moisturizer. After practicing these steps over a period of time, the corn will most likely soften. Your podiatrist may choose to file the corn down.

For more information and professional removal of your corn, we recommend you consult with a podiatrist for an advised treatment plan.

If you have arthritis, frequently wear tight fitting shoes such as high heels, and are older in age, it’s very likely that you may develop a bunion. A bony hump at the base of the big toe is the biggest sign that you may have developed this condition. Bunions are often painful and typically cause an extreme amount of discomfort. Because a bunion protrudes on the side of the foot, it’s likely for it to continuously rub against the inside of your shoe. This causes frequent friction and pain, which may cause calluses to form as well.

There are a number of ways to help alleviate discomfort if you’re experiencing pain due to having a bunion. To begin, it’s important that you maintain a healthy body weight in order to lessen the pressure put on your feet. Icing and warming the affected area may also help ease pain, as well as wearing wider-set footwear to avoid friction between your shoe and bunion. Some patients have also found shoe inserts to be extremely helpful for correcting the position of the foot. In more serious cases where the pain is severe, a podiatrist may recommend surgery for treating the bunion.

If you would like more information on how to best treat your bunion, we recommend you consult with a podiatrist as soon as possible for professional care and a proper diagnosis.