Protecting Your Diabetic Feet

Diabetes can lead to serious foot problems due to nerve damage, known as neuropathy, and poor circulation. These issues reduce sensation in the feet and slow down the body’s ability to heal, making it easier for cuts, blisters, or sores to go unnoticed and worsen over time. Common symptoms include numbness, tingling, and wounds that are slow to heal. Feet may also appear discolored or swollen, and can develop ulcers that may be painless but carry a high risk of infection. A podiatrist can diagnose diabetic foot conditions by performing a comprehensive foot exam and checking nerve function and blood flow. Treatment may involve wound care, custom orthotics, foot hygiene education, and monitoring to prevent complications. Regular visits to a podiatrist play a critical role in maintaining foot health and preventing serious outcomes. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a full evaluation and personalized care plan for 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 Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . 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 Newark, DE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Why Foot Exercises Are Important

Strong and flexible feet play a vital role in balance, mobility, and reducing the risk of injury. Exercises designed for the feet, toes, and ankles can improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion, which may help reduce stiffness and discomfort. When the muscles in the feet are strong, they provide better support for the arches and joints. This lowers the chance of experiencing strain during daily activities or exercise. Stretching movements can also keep tendons and ligaments flexible, easing pressure on the heels and arches. Without proper conditioning, your feet may be more vulnerable to heel pain, toe cramps, and reduced mobility. A podiatrist can assess foot function, recommend targeted exercises, and guide patients in strengthening weak areas to support overall foot health. Exercises are especially valuable for anyone who spends long hours standing, wears shoes such as flip-flops, or participates in high-impact activities. If you have frequent foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment, which may include specific exercises

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctors to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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

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How Foot Bones Function During Running

The bones of the foot play a critical role in running by acting as a spring that stores and releases energy with each step. As the foot strikes the ground, the arches compress to absorb shock and dissipate energy, protecting the joints and soft tissues from excessive stress. During push off, the bones and ligaments work together to release stored energy, propelling the body forward efficiently. Research shows that the foot contributes a significant proportion of the total energy return during running, highlighting its importance in performance and injury prevention. A podiatrist can help by analyzing gait, prescribing orthotics, and providing strategies to optimize foot function. If you have foot pain from running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on practical running form strategies. 

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

  • Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
  • In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

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When the Outer Ankle Bone Breaks

A fracture of the lateral malleolus involves the bony prominence on the outside of the ankle. Symptoms often begin with sudden pain following an injury, such as twisting the ankle or a direct impact. Swelling and bruising usually develop quickly, and bearing weight may be extremely difficult. Some people notice instability or tenderness along the outer ankle, while others may even see a visible change in alignment. Because these signs can resemble a severe sprain, imaging is often required to confirm the injury. Treatment depends on the extent of the fracture and the stability of the joint. Simple breaks may be treated with immobilization and gradual return to activity, while more serious cases can require surgery to restore proper alignment. Targeted exercising is often part of recovery. If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition. 

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

  • Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
  • Swelling around the area
  • Bruising of the area
  • Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

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Keep Your Feet Healthy So You Can Stay Active

Have your feet inspected by a professional before starting a new sport or physical activity. Taking charge of your foot health will keep you in good physical condition and can help you avoid a potential injury, such as a fracture or sprained ankle.

Prevent injuries and see a foot specialist.

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