Podiatrists play an indispensable role in the realm of diabetic limb salvage by addressing not only the immediate wound but also the underlying biomechanical issues of the foot and ankle. These foot and ankle specialists view the diabetic wound in the context of the entire lower limb's structure and function, which involves meticulous local wound care. Debridement and the use of advanced topical therapies and bioengineered tissues, coupled with strategies to offload pressure from the wound site are included. Offloading techniques might include total contact casts, custom braces, and healing shoes with custom inserts designed to redistribute pressure and prevent further injury. When conservative measures fail, surgical intervention may be necessary. Procedures like Achilles tendon lengthening or tendon transfers are performed to rebalance the foot, addressing deformities and reducing abnormal pressures that contribute to ulcers. In more severe cases, reconstructive surgery may be needed to stabilize the foot and prevent ongoing damage. Postoperative care is critical to ensure long-term success, with custom footwear and regular biomechanical monitoring playing key roles in preventing recurrence. If you are experiencing diabetic foot ulcers, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for holistic care that heals the wounds and maintains the overall health and function of your feet.
Limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have diabetes, cancer, or any other condition that could lead to foot amputation if left unchecked, consult with Dr. Lubrina Bryant from District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Limb Salvage?
Limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.
However, there are other causes as well, such as cancer and traumatic injury. Links between higher mortality rates and amputation have been found. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Washington, D.C . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Ingrown toenails occur when the edges of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin. This commonly causes pain, redness, and swelling. Effective management techniques include proper toenail trimming, such as cutting nails straight across without rounding the corners and wearing shoes that provide ample space for the toes. This is because excessive pressure on the nails is partly what leads to ingrown toenails. For recurring or severe cases, a podiatrist, or foot doctor, can offer professional treatments. One treatment includes lifting the nail edge and placing a small splint to allow the nail to grow above the skin level. In some instances, a minor surgical procedure might be necessary. In this case, a podiatrist removes part of the offending nail and may treat the nail bed to prevent the problematic portion of the nail from growing back. Podiatrists can also provide guidance on foot hygiene and footwear to prevent future ingrown toenails. Addressing ingrown toenails professionally helps both reduce pain and prevent infections. If you are suffering from an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist for care.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Lubrina Bryant of District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
Prevention
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Washington, D.C . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Cracked heels can be attributed to various factors, including inadequate nutrition and vitamin deficiencies. Several vitamins play essential roles in maintaining healthy skin, and their deficiencies can contribute to dryness and cracking. For instance, vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, protecting skin cells from damage and promoting moisture retention. Vitamin C is vital for collagen synthesis, which helps maintain skin elasticity and integrity. Similarly, vitamin A supports skin cell turnover and repair, preventing dryness and fissures. Deficiencies in these vitamins, often stemming from poor dietary intake or underlying health conditions, can weaken the skin's barrier function and make it more susceptible to cracking in areas of high pressure like the heels. To address cracked heels caused by vitamin deficiencies, incorporating nutrient-rich foods into the diet or taking supplements under medical supervision can help promote skin health and prevent further complications. Cracked heels can be uncomfortable, and if you have this condition, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you prescribed medication and any other treatment necessary for relief.
If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Lubrina Bryant from District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.
Ways to Help Heal Them
Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels
If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Washington, D.C . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.
When it comes to gardening, ensuring proper foot protection is essential to prevent injuries and maintain comfort throughout the day. To minimize the risk of injury, it is helpful for gardeners to invest in sturdy, closed-toe footwear with slip-resistant soles that provide traction on various surfaces. Additionally, garden boots or shoes with reinforced toes and puncture-resistant soles can offer extra protection from hazards that may be found in the garden, such as thorny areas. Wearing properly fitting footwear is vital to prevent blisters, chafing, and discomfort during long hours of working in the garden. In hot weather, breathable materials can help keep the feet cool and dry, while waterproof footwear is essential for working in wet or muddy conditions. If you have incurred a foot injury while working outdoors, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Dr. Lubrina Bryant from District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Working on Your Feet
Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.
Positive Changes
Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.
Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.
Eliminate Pain
Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.
Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.
With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Washington, D.C . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
