Stepping on a nail can lead to serious complications if not treated properly. When a nail punctures the foot, it creates a small but deep wound, allowing bacteria to enter and potentially cause infections like cellulitis, abscesses, or even bone infections. Tetanus, a rare but life-threatening condition, is also a risk if vaccinations are not current. Immediately after the injury, clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water, apply an antiseptic, and cover it with a sterile bandage. Avoid walking on the injured foot to prevent further damage. Seek medical attention even if the wound seems minor. A podiatrist can assess the depth of the injury, remove debris, prescribe antibiotics if needed, and recommend a tetanus booster. If you have a nail puncture wound, it is strongly suggested that you see a podiatrist for proper care.
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 Dr. Randy Garr from Bigfoot Podiatry. Our doctor 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 our office located in Provo, UT. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Poorly fitting ski boots can lead to foot pain, turning a fun day on the slopes into an uncomfortable experience. When the boot shape does not match your foot, pressure points develop, causing soreness and even bruising. An incorrect flex level can also strain the feet, with overly stiff boots restricting movement, and softer boots failing to offer needed support. Worn-out or packed-down soles worsen stability, increasing the risk of pain or injury. Improperly buckling the boots or wearing thick socks can also add unnecessary pressure, compressing the foot and restricting circulation. Choosing thinner, moisture-wicking socks helps with warmth and comfort without extra bulk. If you are having trouble with foot pain from your ski boots, a podiatrist can assist in helping you select the right ski boots, and perhaps provide custom orthotics to improve fit and support.
Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Dr. Randy Garr from Bigfoot Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Common Injuries
The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:
Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles Tendon Rupture
Ankle Sprains
Broken Foot
Plantar Fasciitis
Stress Fractures
Turf Toe
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.
Treatment
Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Provo, UT. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Hammertoes are a common foot condition where one or more of the toes bend abnormally at the middle joint, causing them to resemble a hammer. There are two types of hammertoes, flexible and rigid. In flexible hammertoe, the joint is still movable but bends downward, causing pain when walking or wearing shoes. Over time, if left untreated, a flexible hammertoe can become rigid, where the joint becomes fixed in a bent position, making the condition more painful and difficult to treat. The primary causes of hammertoes include wearing ill-fitting shoes, genetics, and muscle imbalances that affect the alignment of the toes. High heels and wearing tight footwear can worsen the condition by crowding the toes and forcing them into unnatural positions. Visiting a podiatrist is key to a proper diagnosis and treatment. This type of doctor can recommend orthotics, exercises, or in severe cases, surgery to correct the deformity and relieve pain. If you have a hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Randy Garr of Bigfoot Podiatry. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.
Symptoms
Painful and/or difficult toe movement
Swelling
Joint stiffness
Calluses/Corns
Physical deformity
Risk Factors
Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe
Treatment
If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Provo, UT. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.
