Items filtered by date: February 2024

Educating diabetic patients about foot care is vital for preventing serious complications. Diabetes can lead to nerve damage and poor circulation in the feet, increasing the risk of infections and ulcers. Proper foot care practices, such as daily inspection, keeping feet clean and dry, trimming nails carefully, and wearing appropriate footwear, can help diabetic individuals avoid these issues. Additionally, understanding the importance of regular foot examinations by podiatrists can aid in early detection and treatment of any problems. Podiatrists play a vital role in assessing foot health, providing specialized care, and offering valuable guidance on preventive measures. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist for examinations and important education that may help to prevent serious consequences of diabetes in the feet.

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 Arthur Segall, Jr., DPM from Segall Foot and 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 offices located in Plantation, and Ft. Lauderdale, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, a condition in which the tibial nerve is compressed as it passes through the tarsal tunnel in the ankle, has a variety of treatment options. Conservative treatment is usually recommended at first. This may include rest and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Shoe choice is also important. Wearing supportive footwear and using orthotic inserts can help alleviate pressure on the affected nerve. In cases where conservative measures do not resolve symptoms, corticosteroid injections may be administered to reduce inflammation and provide relief. Severe or persistent cases may require surgical intervention to release the compressed nerve. Each treatment approach is tailored to the patient's specific symptoms and needs. If you have pain and numbness along the inner side of the ankle or bottom of your foot and suspect you have developed tarsal tunnel syndrome, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist who can diagnose you and offer personalized treatment. 

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Arthur Segall, Jr., DPM of Segall Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Plantation, and Ft. Lauderdale, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Charcot-Marie-Tooth, or CMT, is a genetic neuropathy that often results in pain. Approximately 80 percent of CMT patients experience pain, primarily in their feet and hands, which are the areas most affected by CMT. Interestingly, pain severity does not necessarily correlate with neuropathy severity. To manage CMT-related pain, several strategies exist. These can include oral and topical medications, behavioral interventions, and addressing sleep and mood issues. If you have foot neuropathy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer you a tailored approach to treatment.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Arthur Segall, Jr., DPM from Segall Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that causes blisters and peeling skin on the feet. This contagious infection is generally treated with topical antifungal medications. If left untreated, athlete's foot can lead to more severe problems than the itching and redness associated with the infection. If ignored, the infection can spread to other parts of the foot, such as the toenails or the soles of the feet. As the condition progresses, it may result in painful blisters, cracks, and open sores, making daily activities like walking or standing uncomfortable. In some cases, untreated athlete's foot can contribute to the development of secondary bacterial infections, which can include swollen and painful feet. These secondary infections can also cause fever and lymph node infections. Some patients also experience allergic reactions to the initial fungal infection, causing blisters on the infected area. Podiatrists can prescribe antifungal medications and provide more information on foot hygiene to effectively quell a case of athlete’s foot. If you suspect you have athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you seek prompt treatment from a podiatrist to treat the infection and prevent it from worsening. 

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Arthur Segall, Jr., DPM from Segall Foot and Ankle.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Plantation, and Ft. Lauderdale, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.