Foot ulcers and infections are serious concerns for seniors with diabetes, especially those with neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy reduces sensation in the feet, making it harder to notice injuries like cuts, blisters, or ulcers. These unnoticed injuries can quickly worsen, leading to infections. Poor circulation in individuals with diabetes further slows the healing process, increasing the risk of ulcers becoming severe. Infections that result from ulcers can escalate, potentially leading to complications, such as gangrene, which may require amputation, if not treated promptly. Regular foot checks, proper hygiene, and early intervention are essential in preventing and managing foot ulcers. If you are elderly and have diabetes, or are caring for an older person with diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to set up routine visits for foot exams. 

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 Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. 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 office located in Brunswick, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Musculoskeletal conditions of the foot and ankle encompass a range of disorders affecting bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons in this area. These conditions include plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, sprains, fractures, and arthritis. They often result from overuse, injury, or degenerative changes due to aging. Wearing poor footwear, abnormal gait, or underlying conditions like obesity can also contribute to the development of these issues. Treatment for foot and ankle conditions depends on the severity and cause. It may include rest or custom orthotics to correct alignment and reduce strain. In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair damaged tissues. Podiatrists are specialists in diagnosing and managing these conditions. Through personalized treatment plans, these types of doctors can help patients relieve pain, restore function, and prevent recurrence, promoting overall foot and ankle health. If you are having foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

• Broken bones
• Muscle strains
• Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
• Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

• Bruising
• Inflammation/ Swelling
• Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.

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

Cracked heels, or heel fissures, are a common foot problem where the skin on the heels becomes dry, thickened, and splits. These cracks can cause discomfort and pain, especially while standing or walking, and they can sometimes lead to infection if left untreated. Heel fissures occur when the skin loses moisture, leading to dryness and reduced elasticity. Contributing factors include prolonged standing, wearing open-backed shoes, obesity, and conditions like diabetes or eczema, which can cause dryness. Relief involves moisturizing the feet regularly with thick emollients or foot creams containing urea or lactic acid to soften the skin. In more severe cases, medical treatment may be necessary, such as debridement or the application of special wound dressings. If you have severely cracked heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an examination and treatment.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

Bunions are bony protrusions that form at the base of the big toe, often causing the tip of the toe to angle toward the other toes. Symptoms typically include pain, swelling, and redness around the joint, which may worsen with prolonged standing or walking. Bunions often develop due to genetic factors, improper footwear, or abnormal foot mechanics. Wearing tight or high-heeled shoes can worsen the condition by putting pressure on the toe joint. Diagnosing bunions usually involves a physical examination and may include X-rays to assess the extent of bone displacement and joint damage. For severe cases, surgical options may be considered to correct the deformity and alleviate pain. If you have symptoms of a bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can suggest treatment methods that are right for you.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Morning heel pain is a common condition characterized by sharp or aching discomfort in the heel upon waking or taking the first steps out of bed. This pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the band of tissue running from the heel to the toes. The pain arises from the heel’s stress during overnight rest, where the plantar fascia tightens and then experiences strain as the foot first touches the ground. Other causes may include heel spurs, which are bony growths on the heel bone, or Achilles tendinitis, where the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed. Early morning heel pain can cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have this type of foot pain, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer a comprehensive treatment plan.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Brunswick, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.