Diabetes can affect the feet by reducing circulation and damaging nerves, a condition known as peripheral neuropathy. This may cause numbness, tingling, or burning sensations, making it harder to notice cuts, blisters, or pressure points. At the same time, poor blood flow can slow healing, which increases the risk of infection and more serious complications. The feet may appear dry, cracked, or swollen, and even small wounds can become concerning, if not treated early. A podiatrist plays an important role in diabetic foot care by performing regular exams, identifying problem areas, and providing routine nail and skin care. Treatment includes careful removal of thickened skin, wound care, custom orthotics, and guidance on proper footwear to reduce pressure. Education on daily foot inspection and hygiene is also essential to prevent complications. If you have diabetes and notice any changes in your feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.   

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 Kelly Whaley, DPM from Ohio. 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 Willoughby, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot drop is a condition that makes it difficult to lift the front part of the foot while walking. This motion allows the toes to clear the ground with each step. When the muscles that perform this movement become weak or the nerves that control them are damaged, people may develop an abnormal walking pattern known as a steppage gait. This occurs when the knee is lifted higher than normal to prevent the toes from dragging, similar to marching. Foot drop can result from nerve compression near the knee, injuries to the lower back, or certain muscle or neurological disorders. Without proper care, the risk of tripping and falling may increase. A podiatrist can evaluate walking patterns, perform physical and neurological exams, order imaging tests, and provide bracing, custom orthotics, or rehabilitation guidance. If you have difficulty lifting the tip of the foot while walking, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Kelly Whaley, DPM from Ohio. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Swelling of the feet can occur for several reasons related to circulation, fluid balance, or underlying health conditions. This condition, known as edema, develops when excess fluid collects in the tissues of the lower extremities. These help to support body weight and assist in returning blood toward the heart. Common causes of swelling include prolonged standing or sitting, injury, or medical conditions that affect how fluid is regulated in the body. The feet may appear puffy or enlarged, and the skin can feel tight or look shiny. Some people notice an indentation after pressing on the area. A podiatrist can evaluate the swelling through a physical exam and may recommend imaging or coordinate care to determine contributing factors. Treatment options include compression, elevation, and supportive footwear. Targeted exercises to improve circulation and reduce fluid buildup may be suggested. If your feet have become swollen, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate relief tips.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Kelly Whaley, DPM of Ohio. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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

Cracked heels and callouses develop when the skin on the feet becomes thick, dry, and less flexible. Callouses form as a protective response to repeated pressure or friction, often appearing on the heels or balls of the feet. Over time, the skin may become excessively thick and begin to split, leading to painful fissures in the heel. These cracks may look like deep lines in the skin and can feel tender, especially when standing or walking. Contributing factors include standing for a long time, wearing open back shoes, dry skin, and certain medical conditions that affect skin health. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the callous buildup and determine whether there are underlying causes. Treatment includes careful removal of thickened skin, moisturizing routines to restore flexibility, and prescribing custom orthotics to reduce pressure. Early care helps prevent deeper cracks and possible infection. If you have cracked heels or callouses that have become painful, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
 

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 Kelly Whaley, DPM from Ohio. Our doctor 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 Willoughby, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.