Items filtered by date: December 2021

Diabetics are at risk for many types of foot problems, the most common of which is nerve pain. High blood sugar levels can cause damage to the body’s peripheral nerves, and that includes those serving the feet. Another common cause of foot pain in diabetics is peripheral neuropathy, which can result in sharp pain, burning, tingling, and cramps. Circulation problems are caused by high levels of blood sugar that constrict the veins, arteries, and capillaries in the lower extremities. This cuts off blood flow to the feet and slows the healing of any cuts or sores on the ankles and feet. This also leaves the diabetic patient open to an increased likelihood of infections, which may lead to the development of foot ulcers. One of the most destructive causes of foot problems is gangrene, which is the result of both the blood circulation and the neuropathy. If ignored, the affected tissue begins to die and can lead to the loss of a limb if not treated. Signs of diabetic foot problems include changes in skin color, dry or cracked skin on the heels, foot swelling, and inability to detect changes in temperature. It is suggested that people who are diabetic, and especially those with existing foot problems, visit a podiatrist for regular checkups as part of their medical regime and for the safety of their 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 Leonard Talarico, DPM from Georgia. 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 Pooler, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar warts, also called verruca, are hardened growths that usually develop on the sole of the foot. They appear as rough, grainy, rounded lesions that may be covered by calluses and have tiny black dots. Plantar warts typically cause pain on the ball or heel of the foot, where they are most likely to form. This can affect both the way you stand and your gait, or the way you walk, which in turn can contribute to pain in other body parts. Because plantar warts are contagious, they can easily spread into clusters called mosaic warts. Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, which usually enters through cracked dry skin or small cuts or sores on the feet. Children, teenagers, and people with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk of plantar wart infection. A plantar wart can take up to two years to go away on its own, and for that reason it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can offer advanced treatment methods, including freezing off the warts and prescription medication.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Leonard Talarico, DPM from Georgia. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

The arches of the feet play critical roles to the overall health of the body. For example, the arches of the feet can serve as springs, facilitating motion and absorbing shock. However, this important part of the human foot can be negatively impacted during pregnancy. Specifically, the added weight that a pregnant woman gains throughout the pregnancy can put extra pressure on the feet. As a result, the arch may sink to the floor, and the pregnant woman may develop flat feet. This is also compounded by the fact that a pregnant woman’s body releases a hormone called relaxin that facilitates the loosening of the foot’s ligaments. If you are pregnant or are planning to be, it is strongly suggested that you contact a podiatrist today who can provide you with useful information regarding the health of your feet during this time.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Leonard Talarico, DPM from Georgia. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

The gait, which is the way we walk, starts to develop as soon as a child stands up. As they age children go through different stages of gait development, and it is a good idea for parents to monitor these patterns and take note of abnormalities. Three recognizable gait disorders in children are in-toeing, out-toeing, and toe-walking. While in-toeing, also termed pigeon toe, is typical in many children under the age of 3, it also can be caused by a condition where the front of the foot curves inward instead of remaining straight. This can result in a child falling more often than normal. Out-toeing refers to walking with the toes pointed outward instead of straight ahead. It can be the result of flat feet, lower leg misalignment, or hip joint abnormalities. Toe walking is just what it sounds like the child walks on its toes. This can produce tight or shortened calf muscles and may affect balance and cause muscle soreness. If your child displays these or other gait abnormalities, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can assess the situation and provide guidance on how to handle it.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Leonard Talarico, DPM of Georgia. 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 Pooler, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The feet carry the weight of the body and are responsible for walking, running, and jumping. They can become damaged, and various types of foot pain may be experienced. There are several different causes of foot pain and discomfort, and one reason may be from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Athlete’s foot is a common condition that many people get. It is defined as a fungal infection of the skin, and the feet may begin to itch, especially between the toes. Bunions are considered to be a deformity and are noticeable by the hard lump that develops on the side of the big toe. It can be caused by wearing shoes that do not have enough room for the toes to move freely in. People who have diabetes may have different levels of foot pain which can be accompanied by a numbing and tingling sensation. If you have foot pain for any reason, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is and offer relief and treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Leonard Talarico, DPM from Georgia. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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