Tuesday, 12 March 2024 00:00

Swelling, or edema, in the feet, is a common occurrence during pregnancy. Swelling of the feet is primarily attributed to hormonal fluctuations, increased blood volume, and fluid retention. The surge in progesterone slows digestion and circulation, leading to fluid accumulation, particularly in the lower extremities. Additionally, the body's heightened blood volume, necessary to support fetal growth and prepare for labor, worsens this swelling. Swelling can begin as early as the fifth month, especially in women exposed to hot climates or extended periods of standing. Taking regular short walks, avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, and opting for comfortable footwear can help alleviate discomfort. Dietary modifications, including potassium-rich foods and reduced sodium intake, may also help manage swelling. If you are troubled by swelling or other foot ailments during pregnancy, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

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 one of our podiatrists from Centers for Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Merrillville, Portage, Michigan City/LaPorte, and Schererville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Sunday, 10 March 2024 00:00

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

Tuesday, 05 March 2024 00:00

Sometimes, it can be tricky when different health issues overlap, such as when a diabetic patient gets foot sores from diabetes, pressure, or both. In such cases, podiatrists need to make sure patients get care that deals with the cause of the sore. For example, a diabetic individual might have a foot sore from pressure or friction, which would likely require different treatment than a foot sore caused by nerve damage or poor circulation. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist. This foot doctor can routinely examine your feet and administer proper treatment depending on the diagnosis. These types of exams will include checking blood flow, making sure your shoes are not causing foot problems, and caring for wounds as needed.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Centers for Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Merrillville, Portage, Michigan City/LaPorte, and Schererville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Tuesday, 27 February 2024 00:00

If you break your big toe, seeing a podiatrist can be helpful. This type of doctor will examine your toe to determine the extent of the injury. Depending on the severity,  X-rays may be taken to see the extent of the fracture. The podiatrist can provide guidance on how to care for your broken toe properly. They can recommend resting the foot and elevating it to reduce swelling. In some cases, they may suggest buddy taping the broken toe to the adjacent one for support. If the fracture is severe or if the toe is misaligned, they may need to realign it or provide a splint to keep it in place. The podiatrist can also offer pain management techniques and advise on when it is safe to resume normal activities. If you believe you have fractured your big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment that is deemed necessary.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Centers for Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Throbbing pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising on the skin and toenail
  • The inability to move the toe
  • Toe appears crooked or disfigured
  • Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Merrillville, Portage, Michigan City/LaPorte, and Schererville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What to Know About a Broken Toe

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