Archive for Diabetes
Orthotics at Sowell Podiatry in Nacogdoches
Posted by: | CommentsOrthotics, also known as orthoses, refers to any device inserted into a shoe, ranging from felt pads to custom-made shoe inserts that correct an abnormal or irregular, walking pattern. Sometimes called arch supports, orthotics allow people to stand, walk, and run more efficiently and comfortably. While over-the-counter orthotic are available and may help people with mild symptoms, they normally cannot correct the wide range of symptoms that prescription foot orthoses can since they are not custom made to fit an individual’s unique foot structure.
Orthotic devices come in many shapes, sizes, and materials and fall into three main categories: those designed to change foot function, those that are primarily protective in nature, and those that combine functional control and protection.
Rigid Orthotics
Rigid orthotic devices are designed to control function and are used primarily for walking or dress shoes. They are often composed of a firm material, such as plastic or carbon fiber. Rigid orthotics are made from a mold after a podiatrist takes a plaster cast or other kind of image of the foot. Rigid orthotics control motion in the two major foot joints that lie directly below the ankle joint and may improve or eliminate strains, aches, and pains in the legs, thighs, and lower back.
Soft Orthotics
Soft orthotics are generally used to absorb shock, increase balance, and take pressure off uncomfortable or sore spots. They are usually effective for diabetic, arthritic, and deformed feet. Soft orthotics are typically made up of soft, cushioned materials so that they can be worn against the sole of the foot, extending from the heel past the ball of the foot, including the toes. Like rigid orthotics, soft orthotics are also made from a mold after a podiatrist takes a plaster cast or other kind of image of the foot.
Semi-Rigid Orthotics
Semi-rigid orthotics provide foot balance for walking or participating in sports. The typical semi-rigid orthotic is made up of layers of soft material, reinforced with more rigid materials. Semi-rigid orthotics are often prescribed for children to treat flatfoot and in-toeing or out-toeing disorders. These orthotics are also used to help athletes mitigate pain while they train and compete.
Diabetic shoes for diabetic feet in Nacogdoches and Carthage Texas
Posted by: | CommentsThe diabetic shoe bill provided through Medicare is a great program. This bill provides diabetic patients on Medicare an opportunity to get one pair of shoes and three sets of inserts annually. Like all Medicare programs, there are abuses of this coverage by providers, suppliers and patients but overall I find it rewarding to prevent future severe foot complications in situations where the shoes are needed. Not all patients qualify for the shoe bill. Diabetic patients who have diabetes with peripheral vascular disease, neuropathy, a history of amputation or many variances from these basic qualifiers are allowed to participate. My blog today is not so much about the program’s operations but more about the shoes provided.
The primary purpose of the program is to provide shoes that reduce pressures on the foot and therefore reduce the risk of ulcerations that often times lead to infections and amputations. In my book, this is a worthy goal. However, if I am allowed to rant a bit today, I feel that too often diabetic shoes are made so soft and “squishy” (lol) that patients begin to have additional problems with their feet. Particularly those patients who happen to have the qualifying conditions to get the shoes but are still very active. It is almost like walking around on pillows all day or spending many hour walking the beach barefoot.
Our feet need some help. Particularly when they have spent a lifetime in a supportive environment such a good leather lace-up shoe with an arch support or when arthritis has begun to show itself. To take that foot, and then one day put it in a soft foam-like upper with a heat mold-able plastic insole (plastazote) gives the foot little help and leads to fatigue, contracture of the lesser toes trying to stabilize the foot and can ultimately increase pressure in some spots.
My request for each of you considering diabetic shoes is to make sure they are as supportive as possible considering your foot condition and as functional as possible considering your activity level. If you are active it is very likely you will need additional arch support in your new shoes and not just cushions! I’m talking about semi-rigid plastic, cork, felt and many other material options that will help you propel more efficiently and reduce stress and strain.
Be sure to find an expert in diabetic shoes and ask questions about the shoes that are being made for you because they should help your foot situation…not make it worse.
Foot Pain is Not Normal – Basic Footcare Guide – Sowell Podiatry
Posted by: | CommentsBasic footcare guidelines:
Abscess in the Foot
Posted by: | CommentsAs a podiatrist, I see many unusual things. Diabetics who have stepped on a sewing needle and not realized it, puncture wounds from thorns that went through a hunting boot and holes completely through a foot due to a misguided pressure washer! All of these injuries require the removal of a foreign body but they also have the potential to lead to an abscess. In fact, any break in the skin can lead to an abscess.
An Abscess is a collection of pus under the skin. Abscesses are considered localized infections that can cause pain and illness. An abscess can initiate the growth of aggressive infections to other parts of the body. When an abscess develops on the foot, the area involved may become red, hot, swollen, and tender. This infection can spread and ultimately affect other tissues in the foot and leg. When abscesses become large and go untreated, the infection can spread to the bone and lead to a bone infection (osteomyelitis). Once the bone becomes infected, more extensive surgery may be necessary to resolve the infection.
Abscesses can be caused by many factors. Patients that have depressed immune systems are much more at risk for developing an abscess. Diabetes is an example of a disease where one’s immune system is compromised. Often times, a small break in the skin or a blister can start the formation of an abscess. Poor hygiene can also contribute to abscess development and must be addressed during the course of any treatment. Abscesses can form on the feet and can be extremely painful. Abscesses tend to grow in warm moist places, and therefore, the foot is a frequent site for this condition. Trauma is another cause of abscess formation. When direct injury occurs to the foot or any part of the body resulting in a break in the skin, a pathway for infection is created.
Abscesses can be treated conservatively or surgically depending on the extent of the abscess formation. Initially, the treatment should consist of rest and staying off of the affected limb or body part. Warm soaks and moist heat can help alleviate the pain associated with abscess formation. Antibiotics are usually given to the patient to fight off the infection. However, depending upon the extent of the abscess and the organism involved, oral antibiotics may not be enough to fight off the infection. Drainage of the abscess may be warranted if the infection does not resolve. If the abscess is surgically treated IV or oral antibiotics may be administered. After the abscess heals or during the healing process itself, the wound should be kept clean and close monitoring of the condition should be performed.
As you can see, an abscess can be a very serious condition and should be evaluated and treated by a physician. Podiatrists are trained to handle injuries and infections of the foot and are an excellent choice when dealing with an abscess, or potential abscess.
