Diabetics can be in danger of foot and toe problems as a result of sustained high blood sugar levels. Commonly, diabetes causes neuropathy in the lower extremities, which results in numbness and can put the patient in danger of developing a foot ulcer. Because the feeling in the feet is limited or absent, cuts, sores, and cracks in the skin may go unnoticed. Another underlying condition, called peripheral artery disease, can clog the blood vessels in the feet, making it more difficult for any such injuries to heal. This combination can lead to skin ulcers that if not attended to can cause gangrene. Experts suggest a daily foot care regime that can prevent ulcers from forming. It includes washing and drying the feet daily, inspecting them for sores, wearing shoes that are comfortable and fit well, and avoiding going barefoot. Keep the feet elevated when possible and perform light foot exercises, such as wiggling the toes and rotating the ankles to get the circulation going. If you have noticed a sore on your foot that is taking a long time to heal, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

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 Kellvan Cheng, DPM from Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor 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 Carrollton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Overpronation is when the arch of the foot collapses and the foot and ankle roll inward when walking. Medically, this is called pes planus, flexible flatfoot, or more commonly, flat feet. Those who overpronate can be at risk for more injuries than others. Children are born with flat feet, but arches typically develop in the teenage years. Overpronation can occur when the arches are overly flexible, and it can be caused by obesity or pregnancy, inflammation or damage to the tendon, or arthritis in the foot, among other things. Walking or standing can be uncomfortable for those who overpronate. Relief can be found by wearing more supportive shoes, using orthotics, and maintaining a normal body weight. If you have ongoing foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM from Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Metatarsalgia is the medical name for pain that happens to the ball of the foot. It is found under the toes, on the bottom of the foot. The feet bear the weight of the body, and the soles of the feet are often affected. There are 26 bones in each foot, and they are divided into categories. Additionally, the tendons, muscles, and ligaments comprise the arch of the foot, and the nerves control the sensation in the skin. There are several reasons why many people experience metatarsalgia, or foot pain. These can include obesity, wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or specific medical conditions. Morton’s neuroma can happen from wearing shoes that are too tight, such as high heels. This can cause the toes to squeeze together, affecting the nerve that is located between the third and fourth toes. The pain from this condition is often felt in the ball of the foot. A stress fracture can happen to the metatarsal bones in the foot, and it can be felt in the bottom of the foot. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat the condition appropriately. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Kellvan Cheng, DPM from Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Heel spurs can be painful. They are defined as bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel and can measure up to one inch. Heel spurs can be caused by inflammation and tension in the plantar fascia from standing on hard surfaces for most of the day. They may also occur from wearing shoes that have limited cushioning in the heel area, or from a foot injury. Some people have a bone deformity or muscle imbalance, which may also lead to the development of a heel spur. A common symptom that many patients experience is heel pain that is worse in the morning and may slightly subside as the day progresses. Mild relief may be found when supportive shoes are worn. If you have a heel spur, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with the best treatment options.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM from Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

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