Diabetic foot ulcers and neuropathy are serious complications of diabetes that can lead to infection, hospitalization, or even loss of limbs if left untreated. Neuropathy, or nerve damage, reduces sensation in the feet, making it difficult to feel pain, heat, or injuries. This numbness increases the risk of unnoticed wounds, which can develop into open sores called ulcers that are slow to heal. These ulcers often occur on pressure points like the ball of the foot or heel. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, drainage, and, in severe cases, a foul odor. Some people may not feel any pain due to the loss of sensation, which can delay treatment. A podiatrist will examine your feet, assess circulation, and possibly use diagnostic tools like X-rays or vascular studies. Treatment may involve wound care, custom footwear, antibiotics, and offloading pressure from the affected area. If you have diabetes,  it is strongly 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 one of our podiatrists from The Sun Healthcare & Surgery Group. Our doctors 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 Antioch, Martinez, and Concord, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Nerve pain in the foot can result from several conditions, including a pinched nerve, tarsal tunnel syndrome, or peripheral neuropathy. A pinched nerve can occur from foot structure issues or injury, causing sharp or shooting pain. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is similar to carpal tunnel in the wrist and involves compression of the posterior tibial nerve near the ankle. Peripheral neuropathy, often linked to diabetes, involves nerve damage and can affect both feet. Symptoms may include tingling, burning, numbness, or a stabbing sensation. The foot may feel weak, sensitive to touch, or asleep. These symptoms can interfere with walking or even standing. A podiatrist can diagnose the underlying cause through physical exams, imaging, or nerve testing. Treatment options include custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory medication, targeted exercises, corticosteroid injections, or surgery, in severe cases. Managing underlying conditions like diabetes is also critical. If you have symptoms of foot nerve pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from The Sun Healthcare & Surgery Group. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Swollen feet are a common concern and can result from a variety of underlying causes. One frequent cause is edema, which is the accumulation of fluid in the tissues. This may occur due to prolonged standing or sitting, particularly in warm weather or during travel. Medical conditions such as heart, kidney, or liver disease can also contribute to fluid retention. Injury, infection, or inflammation in the feet or ankles may lead to localized swelling. Certain medications, including those for blood pressure or diabetes, may have side effects that include swelling. Pregnancy can also cause fluid buildup due to hormonal changes and increased pressure on the veins. Identifying the cause of swelling is important for effective treatment. Swollen feet can be uncomfortable, and may signify health issues. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can determine if it is from an underlying health issue, and offer effective treatment solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of The Sun Healthcare & Surgery Group. Our doctors 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Antioch, Martinez, and Concord, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.