Blog

Causes and Complications of Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy is a form of nerve damage that develops in some people with diabetes. It most often affects the feet and legs because the nerves in these areas are long and more vulnerable to damage. Nerves carry messages between the brain and body, allowing people to feel touch, pain, and temperature. Over time, high levels of sugar in the blood can interfere with how these nerves send signals. Other factors that may increase the risk of diabetic neuropathy include high blood pressure, excess body weight, smoking, and having diabetes for many years. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, burning pain, or weakness in the feet. Because sensation may be reduced, people may not notice cuts, blisters, or injuries, which in turn can lead to wounds, infections, or ulcers being left untreated.  A podiatrist can examine the feet, test nerve function, and provide care to help prevent these serious complications. If you have symptoms of diabetic neuropathy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.

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 Kutchback Podiatry. 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 The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Diabetic Foot Care

The Importance of Everyday Foot Care for Diabetic Patients

Everyday foot care plays an essential role in maintaining healthy and comfortable feet, and is especially important for diabetic patients. Washing the feet daily with warm water and gentle cleansing helps remove dirt, bacteria, and sweat that may lead to irritation or infection. It is important to wash all areas of the feet carefully, including the soles, heels, and around the toes. After washing, the feet should be gently patted dry with a clean towel. Special attention should be given to drying between the toes to prevent excess moisture that may encourage fungal growth. Improper daily foot care may contribute to conditions such as athlete’s foot, skin irritation, and unpleasant odor. A podiatrist can evaluate foot health and provide guidance for proper care. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide you on additional everyday foot care tips.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Kutchback Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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

Read more about Everyday Foot Care

What is Gout?

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals within a joint. It most commonly affects the big toe, although other joints in the foot and ankle can be involved. One of the key signs of gout is sudden, intense pain that often begins at night. The joint may become red, swollen, warm, and extremely tender to the touch. Even the pressure of a bedsheet can feel unbearable. The skin over the area may appear tight or shiny, and walking can become very difficult. Gout attacks can last several days and may return if the underlying uric acid levels are not controlled. Risk factors include diet, dehydration, certain medications, and family history. A podiatrist can evaluate the painful joint, review medical history, and coordinate testing to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and preventing future attacks. If you have signs of gout, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for proper evaluation and care.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Kutchback Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

Read more about Gout

Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked

Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

When an Ingrown Toenail Becomes Too Painful to Ignore

An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, most often affecting the big toe. It can begin with mild redness and tenderness but may quickly progress to swelling, warmth, and increasing pain along the nail border. The area may look puffy or inflamed and can become shiny or irritated. As pressure builds, walking or wearing shoes may feel sharp and uncomfortable. In more advanced cases, drainage, infection, or overgrown tissue can develop. Causes include improper nail trimming, tight footwear, injury, and naturally curved nails. While early stages may respond to conservative care such as proper trimming techniques, protective padding, and footwear changes, persistent or recurrent ingrown toenails often require a minor surgical procedure. A podiatrist can safely numb the toe, remove the offending portion of the nail, and in some cases treat the nail root to prevent recurrence. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Kutchback Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

  • Improper toenail trimming
  • Genetics
  • Improper shoe fitting
  • Injury from pedicures or nail picking
  • Abnormal gait
  • Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

Read more about Ingrown Toenail Care
scroll to top