Diabetic Ulcers? Come See a Podiatrist First!

So often I see patients in the office with ulcers that have gotten so bad that it is difficult for the patient to make a full recovery. Ulcers are skin wounds that are slow to heal and are classified in four stages, according to which layers of the skin are broken through. 

The ulcer gets worse because the patient wanted to see if the sore would get better on its own. Usually is does not. If a patient is suffering from an ulcer, they need to call us and make an appointment IMMEDIATELY! The sooner I can see the patient, the faster I can treat them and increase the chances of healing. But if the patient waits too long to come see me, it becomes difficult and often leads to amputation.

Podiatrists are experts in foot care and wound management, whenever you have a foot concern, call and make an appointment with me at Gaston Foot & Ankle.

 I care too much about my patients to see them in pain!   

Heel Pain - Here to help!

Many of my patients that come see me have heel pain. This is usually caused by the dreaded Plantar Fasciitis. Conservative care for plantar fasciitis consists of 3 treatments. These recommendations will relieve 80-90% of pain caused from plantar fasciitis or heel spurs. Remember the spur itself does not cause pain. It is the inflammation of the plantar fascia (the ligament on the bottom of the foot). There are 3 areas we want to concentrate on.

1. Proper shes with proper supports (orthotics) is crucial. I recommend a cross trainer or running type shoe. Shoe must be worn at all times, even in the house. Most people also need an appropriate support in the shoe. We have several types available in the office including custom scanned orthotics. Be careful what you by over-the-counter.
2. Ice therapy should be performed 3-4 times per day, 15-30 minutes at a time Use an ice pack or frozen water bottle. If too cold, keep socks on or apply a thin towel over the ice.
3. Stretching exercises: IMPORTANT: These stretching exercises should not cause pain, but rather a pulling feeling. Try to do each exercise 3 or 4 times during the day; not necessarily all in one sitting.  

If your heel pain persists, come see us at Gaston Foot & Ankle! We're here to help you. No one should be in pain when we can fix it! 

Give us a call at 704-861-0425 or check out our website at www.gastonfoot.com!