Items filtered by date: August 2024

Diabetes can significantly affect toenails, leading to various complications. One common issue is diabetic foot syndrome, where poor circulation and nerve damage result in slow healing and increased risk of infections. This condition can worsen problems like ingrown toenails, where the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain and potential infection. Diabetics are also prone to toenail fungus, which leads to discolored, thickened, and brittle nails. To manage these issues, it is essential to practice good foot hygiene, including regular nail trimming and keeping feet clean and dry. Wearing well-fitting shoes and monitoring any changes in toenails promptly can help prevent complications and maintain foot health. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition, in addition to monitoring toenail health.

For more information about treatment, contact Paul A. Santangelo, DPM of Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Niles and Rockford, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

People with diabetes need to prioritize foot care to prevent complications such as infections, ulcers, and gangrene, which can sometimes result in severe outcomes. Nerve and blood vessel damage from high blood sugar can lead to decreased sensation and poor circulation in the feet. Foot care tips for diabetics include daily inspection of the feet for cuts, blisters, and abnormalities is essential. Wearing properly fitting shoes and socks is also important, as it helps protect against injuries and discomfort that might go unnoticed due to reduced sensation. Maintaining good blood sugar control is vital to promote healing and prevent infections. Additionally, washing feet daily with warm water, ensuring they are thoroughly dried, and moisturizing them can help maintain skin health. It is advisable to walking barefoot and to engage in regular physical activity to improve circulation. If any foot issues arise, a podiatrist can offer specialized care of your feet. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist for ongoing foot treatment.

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 Paul A. Santangelo, DPM from Illinois. 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 offices located in Niles and Rockford, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle dislocations are serious injuries where the bones in this complex joint lose their proper alignment. An ankle dislocation usually involves the shin bone, or tibia, and the foot bone, or talus, coming apart. Often, this injury is accompanied by breaks in the lower parts of the shin bones and damage to the ligaments that keep the ankle stable. In rare cases, just the ligaments can be injured, causing dislocation. These injuries are typically caused by trauma such as falls, car accidents, or sports injuries. The direction of dislocation depends on how the foot is positioned and the force applied. For example, when the foot points downward, the ankle might dislocate backwards. Twisting injuries can cause the ankle to dislocate sideways. Dislocations are very painful. They often cause visible deformity, swelling, bruising, and possible numbness or tingling if nerves are affected. Standing or walking is often impossible. If you believe your ankle may be dislocated, it is suggested that you make an emergency appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Paul A. Santangelo, DPM from Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

More than a quarter of people aged 65 and older fall each year. Among the factors that can lead to a fall at home are muscle weakness, loose throw rugs, and numbness in the feet. Unsafe footwear, such as backless shoes and high heels, is another factor. With a few preventative measures implemented, you can reduce the chances of falling and maintain an active life as a senior. Staying physically active is especially important as one age. Regular exercise improves muscle strength and can help keep your joints, tendons, and ligaments flexible. Standing up slowly after lying down or sitting for a prolonged period of time can help, along with using a cane or walker as needed to aid in balance. Wear shoes or slippers with non-skid soles that fully support the feet. If you feel that you have an increased risk for falls, or are planning a new exercise regime, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist for information on fall prevention and suggested treatment options.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Paul A. Santangelo, DPM from Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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