Items filtered by date: October 2024

Bone spurs, also known as osteophytes, are smooth bony growths that commonly develop in the feet of seniors. They typically affect areas like the heel, ankle, and big toe. Bone spurs form over time as the result of natural wear and tear in the joints, causing the protective cartilage to thin. The body then tries to compensate by producing extra bone. While some bone spurs do not cause discomfort, others can press on nearby nerves or tissues, which may lead to pain, swelling, or reduced joint mobility. A podiatrist can diagnose bone spurs using imaging tests and evaluate if they are contributing to any foot pain. Treatment typically involves managing symptoms through footwear modifications, custom orthotics, and exercises. In severe cases, surgical removal may be recommended. If you have foot pain that indicates a bone spur, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Katie Besselman, DPM from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor 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 our office located in Saint Peters, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetic neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes that primarily affects the feet. It often starts with feelings of tingling, burning, or numbness. Over time, the damage to nerves can lead to decreased sensitivity. This makes it harder to notice cuts, blisters, or sores, which can later become infected if untreated. The lack of sensation from diabetic neuropathy can also alter how you walk, increases the risk of injuries, or may result in formation of foot ulcers. Untreated foot infections can worsen and may even lead to gangrene or limb loss. A podiatrist plays a key role in helping patients with diabetic neuropathy. This foot doctor can identify early symptoms, treat foot complications, and provide strategies to protect the feet from further damage. Regular checkups, foot exams, and proper foot care routines are essential for maintaining foot health and preventing serious issues. If you suffer from diabetic neuropathy, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist for exams and treatment.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Katie Besselman, DPM from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Peters, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Corns and calluses are both thickened areas of skin that develop due to repeated friction or pressure, but they differ in their location and appearance. Corns typically form on the toes or between the toes, appearing as small, thickened, and often painful areas with a central core. They are usually caused by wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes that create localized pressure on specific points. Symptoms include pain, tenderness, and sometimes redness. Calluses, on the other hand, usually develop on the soles of the feet or other weight-bearing areas. They are larger and less defined than corns. They are also generally less painful. Calluses form as a protective response to repeated friction or pressure, often from walking or standing for long periods. Treatment for both conditions involves reducing pressure and friction. If you have corns or calluses that impede your daily activities, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss effective relief and management techniques.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Katie Besselman, DPM of Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Peters, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.