Not all foot wounds are the same, and knowing the difference can guide proper care. Arterial wounds often develop when blood flow to the feet is poor. These wounds are usually painful, may appear on the toes or heels, and often have a pale or punched out look. Venous wounds occur when veins are not moving blood efficiently back to the heart. These are commonly found around the ankles, may be less painful, and often appear with swelling or discoloration of the skin. Neurotrophic wounds, often linked to diabetes or nerve damage, may form on pressure points of the feet. Because sensation is reduced, these wounds can develop unnoticed and worsen over time.  wound  type has distinct causes and needs special attention. If you notice any foot or ankle wound that is not healing, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for evaluation and appropriate treatment.

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 one of our podiatrists from Chicago Foot Specialists. Our practitioners 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 Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Raynaud’s syndrome is a condition which causes smaller arteries that supply blood to areas such as the skin of the toes to constrict in response to cold weather or stress. The constriction results in a temporary loss of blood flow to the affected areas, which may become cold, numb, or discolored. If you have Raynaud’s syndrome, it can be managed. Since cold temperatures are a known trigger of Raynaud’s, it is recommended that you protect your feet from the cold by wearing warm socks and shoes. Avoid wearing socks and shoes that are too tight, as these can further restrict your circulation. Regular exercise may improve circulation as well. For more information about managing Raynaud’s syndrome when it affects your feet, please consult with a podiatrist. 

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Chicago Foot Specialists. Our practitioners will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness 
• Numbness or cramping in the legs
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

A podiatrist is a medical specialist who focuses on the health of the feet and ankles. Their training prepares them to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, from everyday issues like ingrown toenails and calluses to more complex problems such as fractures, tendon injuries, and diabetic foot complications. Podiatrists also play a vital role in identifying circulation problems, nerve damage, and structural changes that may affect walking and balance. Treatments can include custom orthotics, wound care, and surgical procedures, when needed. Beyond addressing pain and injury, podiatrists work to prevent long-term complications by monitoring changes in the feet that might signal larger health concerns. This combination of medical knowledge and hands-on care allows patients to maintain mobility and independence. For concerns related to foot or ankle health, or if you are interested in pursuing podiatry as a career choice, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Chicago Foot Specialists. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

• Physical therapy
• Drugs
• Orthotic inserts or soles
• Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

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