Diabetic foot ulcers are open sores that typically form on the bottom of the feet in individuals with diabetes. These ulcers progress through several stages, each requiring careful management. In the initial stage, the skin breaks down, often due to minor injuries or pressure. As the ulcer develops, it can deepen, affecting the underlying tissue and potentially reaching the muscle or bone. At advanced stages, infection sets in, leading to serious complications like gangrene, which may necessitate loss of limb. Seeking early treatment is critical because the earlier the intervention, the better the chances of preventing progression. Early treatment can stop the ulcer from worsening, reduce the risk of infection, and promote faster healing. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist to stay on top of any developing foot problems, preventing complications.

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 one of our podiatrists from Cleveland Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors 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 offices located in Cleveland, Independence, and Kent, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Swollen feet can be a sign of various underlying health issues and should not be ignored. One common cause is water retention, where excess fluid builds up in the tissues due to poor circulation or kidney function. Consuming too much sodium can also cause the body to hold onto water, leading to noticeable swelling in the feet and ankles. Protein deficiency is another factor, as protein helps maintain fluid balance within the blood vessels. When levels are low, fluid can leak into surrounding tissues. Heart failure can cause swelling as the heart struggles to pump blood effectively, leading to fluid accumulation in the lower extremities. Cirrhosis, or severe liver damage, can further disrupt the body’s ability to manage fluids, contributing to persistent swelling in the feet and legs. If you notice your feet have become swollen, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the cause and treat it accordingly.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Cleveland Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Cleveland, Independence, and Kent, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Hiking with ankle pain requires extra care and thoughtful planning to prevent further injury and enjoy the experience. Choosing smaller, well-maintained trails can help reduce stress on the ankle by providing even surfaces and shorter distances to manage. It is important to wear supportive hiking shoes or boots that stabilize the ankle and cushion each step. Carrying light loads can make a big difference, as heavy backpacks place added pressure on the joints and increase fatigue. Maintaining a healthy weight also supports the ankles by easing the strain placed on them during movement. Taking breaks when needed and using trekking poles for balance can enhance comfort and reduce the risk of aggravating the pain. If you enjoy hiking and have developed ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective management tips, providing a more enjoyable hiking experience.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Cleveland Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Foot pain while cycling can be frustrating and may affect performance and comfort. Common issues include numb feet, burning sensations, and sore soles, often caused by pressure on nerves or poor circulation. Tight shoes or poorly placed cleats may contribute to these symptoms by compressing nerves or restricting blood flow. Plantar fasciitis can also be aggravated by cycling, as the repetitive motion and pressure on the arch strain the plantar fascia. Metatarsalgia, which involves pain in the ball of the foot, may result from excessive pressure during pedaling or from footwear lacking proper support. Long rides, improper bike fit, and insufficient arch support all play a role. Foot pain may cause you to temporarily stop cycling. If this has happened to you, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions, enabling you to return to this popular activity.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from Cleveland Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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