Tuesday, 03 December 2024 00:00

Diabetes can lead to serious foot problems due to poor circulation and nerve damage, both of which are common complications of the condition. High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the feet and slowing down the healing process. Additionally, nerve damage, or diabetic neuropathy, can cause numbness, making it difficult to detect injuries or infections. Common foot problems for diabetics include ulcers, infections, and Charcot foot, a condition where bones in the foot weaken and collapse. Key risk factors for foot damage include uncontrolled blood sugar levels, smoking, and wearing poor footwear. To reduce risks, it is crucial for individuals with diabetes to inspect their feet daily for cuts or sores, keep their feet clean and dry, wear properly fitted shoes, and manage blood sugar levels effectively. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a chiropodist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

Diabetes can cause serious problems in the lower limbs if proper preventive measures are not taken and diabetic wound care is not performed. If you would like to learn more about caring for diabetic feet, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Diabetes can lead to a host of foot and ankle complications, including: 

  • Poor circulation

  • Peripheral neuropathy

  • Diabetic foot wounds and ulcers

  • Infection 

  • Corns and calluses

  • Dry, cracked skin

  • Nail disorders 

  • Hammertoes 

  • Bunions

  • Charcot foot

If you have diabetes, you must be vigilant of any changes in your foot health. This is best done through daily foot inspections. Using a mirror to help you if necessary, look for any: 

  • Cuts, scrapes, sores, or wounds

  • Bruising or discoloration 

  • Swelling

  • Rash

  • Foul odor

  • Nail changes 

  • Hair loss 

  • Warmth and inflammation

  • Deformities 

  • Lower limb pain

  • Strange sensations (numbness, tingling, burning, pins, and needles)

If you detect anything unusual, seek the care of a chiropodist as soon as possible. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Thursday, 28 November 2024 00:00

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!

Tuesday, 26 November 2024 00:00

Cuboid syndrome is a condition that affects the cuboid bone in the foot, which is located on the outer side of the midfoot. It occurs when this bone becomes misaligned or restricted, often due to an injury, overuse, or sudden twisting movements. This misalignment can cause pain and discomfort, particularly when walking or standing. The main symptoms of cuboid syndrome include sharp pain along the outer edge of the foot, swelling, difficulty walking, and a feeling of instability when bearing weight on the affected foot. Athletes, especially runners or those involved in high-impact sports, are at a higher risk of developing this condition. Treatment typically involves manual manipulation to realign the bone, along with rest and stretching exercises to improve flexibility and reduce the risk of recurrence. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist who can accurately diagnose and treat cuboid syndrome.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joint and ligaments surrounding the cuboid bone in the foot become injured. If you think that you may have cuboid syndrome, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Causes

The cuboid bone is one of the seven tarsal bones located in the foot. Cuboid syndrome develops when the cuboid bone moves down and out of alignment with the other bone (calcaneus bone) in the joint of the foot. Cuboid syndrome can be the result of a sudden injury like an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly over time from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures. 

Symptoms

The most common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain on the outside of the foot which may worsen with activity. 

Other possible symptoms include: 

  • Difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot

  • Swelling

  • Sensitivity on the bottom of the foot

  • Reduced range of motion  

Diagnosis

A chiropodist can diagnose cuboid syndrome based on your medical history and a physical examination of the foot. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, often fail to show the dislocated cuboid. 

Treatment

Treatment often includes resting, icing, compressing and elevating the affected foot, taping, wearing orthotic inserts, and taking anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain. The chiropodist may also be able to manipulate the dislocated bone back into alignment.

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

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Tuesday, 19 November 2024 00:00

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue connecting the heel to the ball of the foot, becomes inflamed or strained. Plantar fasciitis is one of the leading causes of heel pain, and is frequently felt as sharp pain near the heel, especially during the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. The discomfort may ease when you start moving but can return after standing or walking for extended periods. Causes include repetitive stress from activities like running, having high or low arches, tight calf muscles, or wearing unsupportive shoes. A chiropodist can help to manage plantar fasciitis symptoms by offering tailored treatment plans and recommending devices to relieve strain on the fascia. Diagnosis involves a physical examination, sometimes accompanied by imaging tests. Treatment typically includes stretches and wearing orthotic devices that provide support. If you are experiencing heel pain that may be related to plantar fasciitis, it is suggested to schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for advice and guidance.

Plantar fasciitis can be painful and interfere with your daily activities. If you are experiencing foot or heel pain and believe you may be afflicted with plantar fasciitis, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis refers to the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. Repetitive activities, such as running or jumping, can injure the plantar fascia over time. Plantar fasciitis can also be caused by flat feet, high arches, pregnancy, and activities that put excessive pressure on your feet, like standing all day for work. When the plantar fascia becomes inflamed, it causes pain and discomfort. 

Symptoms

Typical symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:

  • Stabbing pain near the heel

  • Pain that is worst in the morning or after a period of rest

  • Pain that increases after exercising

  • Swelling

  • Tightness in the Achilles tendon

Diagnosis

Plantar fasciitis is typically diagnosed via medical history and physical examination. 

Treatment

Treatments for plantar fasciitis include resting and icing the affected foot, stretching the foot, taking medications to reduce inflammation, and wearing orthotics. In severe cases where pain does not improve with conservative treatments, injections or surgery may be recommended. 

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

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