Skin ulcers on the feet are open sores that form when the skin and underlying tissue break down due to poor circulation, nerve damage, or constant pressure. Pressure ulcers develop on the heels or ankles when prolonged pressure reduces blood flow to the skin. Venous ulcers form above the ankle when veins fail to circulate blood properly, causing fluid buildup and skin damage. Arterial ulcers appear on the toes, ankles, or between toes when  blood flow is reduced by narrowed arteries, leaving the skin deprived of oxygen. Neuropathic ulcers, often seen in people with diabetes, occur on weight-bearing areas like the ball of the foot. Nerve damage prevents pain sensation, allowing minor injuries to worsen unnoticed. A podiatrist can diagnose the cause, promote healing, and help prevent limb loss. If you notice sores on the feet that do not heal properly, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

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 Ankita Patel, DPM from All Pro Foot and Ankle. 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 contact our office located in Swedesboro, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s foot, medically known as tinea pedis, is a fungal infection caused by dermatophytes that thrive in warm, humid, and dark environments such as locker rooms, public showers, and damp shoes. It often spreads through shared surfaces and items like towels or footwear. Symptoms include itching, redness, peeling skin, and a burning sensation between the toes or on the soles. Prevention involves keeping feet clean and dry, wearing breathable shoes, and avoiding walking barefoot in communal areas. A podiatrist can provide effective antifungal treatments, foot care guidance, and strategies to prevent recurrence. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication. 

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Ankita Patel, DPM from All Pro Foot and Ankle.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

Foot stress fractures occur when the bones of the foot are subjected to repeated force without enough time to repair and recover. These hairline cracks often develop in the metatarsals, heel bone, navicular, or sesamoid bones near the toes, and they typically worsen with continued activity. People often experience gradually increasing pain, especially during sports or repetitive movement, and tenderness when pressure is applied. Because swelling is not always obvious, diagnosis of stress fractures often requires imaging such as X-rays or MRI scans. Certain foot fractures are considered to be a higher risk and can take longer to heal, sometimes requiring surgery to restore stability and function. Others are lower risk and may improve with guided changes in activity and temporary offloading. A podiatrist can evaluate the location and severity of the stress fracture, recommend appropriate treatment, and provide long-term strategies to reduce the risk of recurrence. If you have foot pain from repetitive sports or other activities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Ankita Patel, DPM from All Pro Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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