Diabetic foot ulcers are open sores that develop when skin breaks down and does not heal properly. Diabetes can damage nerves in the feet, reducing the ability to feel pain from a cut or blister. It can also narrow blood vessels and limit the flow of oxygen-rich blood needed for healing. As a result, a small injury can worsen before a patient notices it. Warning signs include redness, swelling, and drainage. Some ulcers cause pain, while others remain painless because of nerve damage.

Several factors raise the risk of an ulcer. Poor blood-sugar control, a previous ulcer, and reduced circulation can make skin more likely to break down. Foot shape changes can create areas of repeated pressure. Shoes that fit poorly can also cause rubbing or crowd the toes. Without prompt care, an ulcer can become infected and damage deeper tissue, sometimes spreading to a bone or joint. Severe cases can lead to tissue death, hospitalization, or limb loss. Early evaluation gives the foot a better chance to heal and lowers the risk of serious complications.

A podiatrist can examine the sore, measure its depth, and check the foot for infection. The examination also includes testing sensation and circulation. X-rays or other imaging tests can show whether a bone has been affected. Treatment includes cleaning the wound, removing unhealthy tissue, and applying protective dressings. A podiatrist can use padding, a special boot, or a cast to reduce pressure on the ulcer. This pressure relief, called off-loading, gives the damaged area a better chance to close. The podiatrist can also recommend properly fitted shoes and schedule ongoing wound checks. Surgery is sometimes required for advanced damage. If you have diabetes and have developed a foot ulcer, 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 Gabrielle Clark, DPM from LA Feet Foot & Ankle Center, Inc. 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 New Orleans, Metairie, and Slidell, LA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet. It frequently begins between the toes, where moisture can collect. The fungus grows well in warm, damp environments, including locker rooms, swimming pool areas, and public showers. It can spread through direct contact with infected skin or contaminated surfaces. Shoes can also create a warm environment that encourages fungal growth, especially when feet sweat heavily. Although the name suggests a sports-related problem, athlete’s foot can affect anyone who comes into contact with the fungus.

Symptoms can vary depending on the area of the foot involved. The skin between the toes can become cracked, peeling, or scaly. Itching, burning, and stinging can also occur. Some patients develop blisters or dry skin along the soles and sides of the feet. Athlete’s foot can spread to the toenails, making the infection more difficult to treat successfully and completely. Scratching infected skin and then touching another part of the body can spread the fungus. Because other skin problems can look similar, an accurate diagnosis is important before treatment begins.

A podiatrist can examine the affected skin and determine whether a fungal infection is causing the symptoms. When the diagnosis is uncertain, testing a small skin sample can help identify fungus. Treatment includes antifungal medication applied to the skin or, in more stubborn cases, oral medicine may be prescribed.  A podiatrist can also evaluate recurring infections and look for factors that allow the fungus to return. Following the prescribed treatment for the full recommended period is important because stopping too early can allow the infection to remain. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Gabrielle Clark, DPM from LA Feet Foot & Ankle Center, Inc.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in New Orleans, Metairie, and Slidell, LA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle pain caused by arthritis can make walking, standing, and staying active more difficult. Arthritis affects the joints and can lead to pain, stiffness, and swelling around the ankle. Several types of arthritis can involve this area. Osteoarthritis develops as cartilage within a joint gradually breaks down. Inflammatory forms of arthritis can cause ongoing joint inflammation. Arthritis may also develop after a previous ankle injury, sometimes years after the original damage occurred. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to pain that limits movement. Since ankle pain has many possible causes, determining whether arthritis is responsible is an important part of choosing appropriate treatment.

Arthritis-related ankle pain may become more noticeable during weight-bearing activities. Stiffness can reduce the ankle’s normal range of motion, while swelling may make movement uncomfortable. Some people also notice tenderness around the joint or changes in the way they walk. When ankle movement becomes painful, a person may place more pressure on other areas of the foot. This can contribute to additional discomfort and affect overall mobility. Arthritis symptoms may develop gradually or become worse over time. Persistent ankle pain, swelling, or stiffness should be evaluated to determine the type of arthritis and how much the joint has been affected.

A podiatrist can provide specialized arthritis foot care and evaluate how ankle arthritis is affecting movement. An examination may include checking joint mobility, areas of tenderness, and walking patterns. Imaging may also be used to look for changes within the ankle joint. Based on the diagnosis, a podiatrist can develop an individualized treatment plan aimed at reducing discomfort and supporting foot and ankle function. Podiatric care can also address changes in foot mechanics that may place added stress on painful joints. If ankle pain, swelling, or stiffness from arthritis is limiting your ability to walk comfortably, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Gabrielle Clark, DPM from LA Feet Foot & Ankle Center, Inc. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in New Orleans, Metairie, and Slidell, LA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain is a frequent foot complaint that can interfere with walking, standing, and daily comfort. It often develops when the tissues that support the heel become irritated or inflamed. Conditions that contribute to heel pain include plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, bursitis, and heel spurs. Each condition affects different structures of the foot, but all can lead to discomfort that worsens with activity or prolonged standing. Understanding the cause of heel pain is important for proper treatment and long-term relief.

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain and occurs when the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed. This condition often causes sharp pain with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. Achilles tendonitis affects the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel. It may cause pain and stiffness at the back of the heel, especially during movement. Bursitis involves inflammation of fluid filled sacs that cushion the heel, leading to tenderness and swelling. Heel spurs are bony growths that can develop due to strain, often associated with plantar fasciitis, and may cause persistent discomfort.

Risk factors for heel pain vary by condition but often include overuse, improper footwear, and biomechanical issues. Individuals who stand for long periods, participate in high-impact activities, or wear shoes with poor arch support may be more likely to develop heel pain. Tight calf muscles, obesity, and foot structure abnormalities can also increase strain on the heel. 

Treatment for heel pain depends on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. Rest, wearing supportive footwear, and stretching exercises can help relieve pressure and improve function. Custom orthotics may also bring relief. Early evaluation by a podiatrist can identify the specific condition and guide effective treatment. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat various causes.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Gabrielle Clark, DPM of LA Feet Foot & Ankle Center, Inc. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in New Orleans, Metairie, and Slidell, LA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.