Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body regulates blood sugar, which can impact circulation and nerve function in the feet. Poor circulation and neuropathy, both side effects of diabetes, increase the risk of wounds, infections, and slow healing. Proper foot care is essential to prevent complications. This includes washing and thoroughly drying the feet, trimming toenails straight across, wearing protective footwear, and keeping the feet covered to avoid injuries. A podiatrist plays a vital role in diabetic foot care by monitoring for early signs of problems, treating wounds, and providing preventive guidance. If you have diabetes that is affecting your feet, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to monitor 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 Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. 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 one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A diabetic foot ulcer is an open wound or sore that typically forms on the bottom of the foot in individuals with diabetes. Poor circulation and reduced sensation increase the risk of skin breakdown, making even minor injuries potentially serious. Proper care includes keeping the ulcer clean, covered, and protected from pressure. Managing blood sugar levels and inspecting the feet daily are also important. A podiatrist provides expert wound care, offloading solutions, and guidance to prevent infection and promote healing. If you have diabetes and notice a sore on your foot, do not delay. It is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat diabetic foot ulcers, and help you to manage this serious condition.

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 Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. 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 contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, often requires professional treatment to fully resolve. Your podiatrist may suggest oral medications, topical treatments, or laser therapy, depending on the severity of the infection. Oral antifungal pills tend to be the most effective but can cause side effects like an upset stomach or liver concerns. Topical solutions avoid these risks but often take longer to show results and may not work for deep infections. Laser treatments offer a non-invasive option, although results can vary. Your podiatrist will consider your health history and the extent of the infection when recommending a treatment plan. Treatment success also depends on how carefully you follow instructions, as missing medication doses or stopping early can lead to failure. If you have developed toenail fungus, it is suggested you visit a podiatrist to discuss safe and effective treatment options.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Regular foot care is essential for seniors, as aging feet are more vulnerable to issues that can impact comfort and mobility. Conditions such as arthritis, bunions, thickened nails, or skin problems can cause pain and increase the risk of falls or infections. Left untreated, these disorders may reduce independence and limit daily activities. Consistent foot care helps maintain circulation, prevent complications, and promote overall well-being. A podiatrist plays a vital role by detecting early signs of problems, managing chronic conditions, and offering tailored treatments to keep feet healthy. If you are a senior, and you notice changes in your foot health, it is suggested that you schedule regular visits with a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, while preserving mobility and ensuring continued comfort and safety in everyday life.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.