Diabetic foot complications are serious concerns that can greatly affect quality of life if not properly managed. One major issue is neuropathy, where damaged nerves lead to a loss of sensation in the feet, making it difficult to detect injuries. Poor circulation is another common problem, limiting the blood flow needed for healing and increasing the risk of infections. Skin changes, such as dryness and cracking, create openings for bacteria to enter, further raising the chance of complications. Ulcers may develop on pressure points and can become deep wounds that are slow to heal. Additionally, infections are a major risk and can quickly spread if untreated. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition as it affects your 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 Sharmila Das-Wattley, DPM from Home Wound Healing. 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 office located in Florida . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Webbed toes, also known as syndactyly, refer to a condition where two or more toes are fused together by skin, soft tissue, or, in rare cases, bone. This occurs during early fetal development when the toes fail to separate completely. Webbed toes are often inherited and may appear as an isolated trait or as part of a genetic syndrome. In most cases, the condition does not cause pain or interfere with walking, although it may be noticeable in appearance. Environmental factors during pregnancy, such as exposure to certain medications or substances, may also contribute to its development. Webbed toes can vary in severity and may be found in both feet or just one. While usually harmless, surgical correction is an option for individuals who desire a change in function or appearance. If you have been born with this condition and are experiencing discomfort, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can discuss relief options, including the possibility of surgery.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Sharmila Das-Wattley, DPM of Home Wound Healing. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Florida . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Foot pain is a common complaint as people age, often resulting from years of wear and tear on the feet, toes, and ankles. Age-related foot issues include bunions, stress fractures, osteoarthritis, plantar fasciitis, and collapsed arches. These conditions can arise as the soft tissues lose elasticity, bones weaken, and joint cartilage wears down. Women are especially prone to developing foot problems due to factors such as hormonal changes and a higher likelihood of bone density loss later in life. In addition, high heels, often worn for many years, can increase pressure on the front of the foot and contribute to deformities and pain. A podiatrist can diagnose the source of your foot pain and recommend medical treatment, including custom orthotic devices, bracing, or injections to reduce inflammation and relieve pressure. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct deformities or repair damaged tissues. If you have foot problems related to aging, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

If you need your feet checked, contact Sharmila Das-Wattley, DPM of Home Wound Healing. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

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

Gait problems in children often begin with noticeable issues in the feet, toes, or ankles. These may include in-toeing or out-toeing. In-toeing happens when the feet point inward while walking and is often seen in younger children. It may be caused by a curved shape of the foot or the way the leg bones twist inward. Out-toeing, when the feet point outward, is more common in older children and may be due to outward twisting of the leg bones. Some children may also appear flatfooted, meaning the arches of the feet are low or missing, although the foot usually stays flexible. A podiatrist can examine how your child stands and walks to see if their walking pattern falls within normal growth changes. Many children outgrow these issues, but a podiatrist can track their progress to determine if treatment is needed. In rare cases, surgery may be recommended if the gait problem is severe and affects movement. If your child exhibits an unusual or abnormal gait, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and  appropriate treatment.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Sharmila Das-Wattley, DPM of Home Wound Healing. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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