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1114 Raritan Road
Clark, NJ 07066

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Foot Notes

Posts for tag: ulcers

By Clark Podiatry Center
December 18, 2018
Category: Diabetic Foot Care
Tags: diabetes   ulcers   gangrene   self-foot exams  

After a diagnosis of diabetes, there are a lot of things to think about: maintaining blood sugar levels, improving eating habits, removing unhealthy habits, and making lifestyle changes to keep healthy.

With all the possible major complications, such as kidney issues, neuropathy, and even eyesight issues, you’ll have to be careful of diabetic ulcers as well.

About ulcers:

  • An ulcer is a skin problem such as a sore or wound that heals very slowly. Because of the slow process of healing, your skin can be more prone to infections, and the skin can continue to break down.
  • They occur because of poor circulation, loss of nerve sensation from high blood sugar levels, and long periods of pressure from shoes or standing.
  • The more time and amount of pressure on the foot dictates where ulcers are likely to occur. The bottoms of the feet are the most likely to experience ulcers because of this. That’s why it’s important to check the feet, especially the bottom, daily.

The associated danger:

  • When they are not taken care of promptly, ulcers can become so severe that they break down muscle and bone!
  • Ulcers can become infected to the point of becoming gangrene. And beyond that, the entire foot can become so infected that it can require amputation to save the rest of the leg.

Preventing Diabetic Ulcers:

  • Do self-foot exams each night while you wash your feet. You’ll keep your foot hygiene as well as check your feet for any cuts, wounds, or sores. That way, you can make sure you get the appropriate help for healing before they become ulcerative.
  • Control your diabetes (blood sugar levels). High blood sugar levels can cause nerve damage, which affects your body’s ability to talk to the brain. The sensation loss can reduce the circulation of fluids and blood, which carries healing properties.

If you are worried about diabetic ulcers, consult with our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Brandon Macy at Clark Podiatry Center. He can assess your feet, and find a solution to your diabetic ulcer concerts. Make an appointment at our Clark, NJ office so we can keep you walking.

 

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By Clark Podiatry Center
July 25, 2018
Category: Smoking
Tags: ulcers   cancer   child   ischemic feet   toe deformities  

Unless you don’t own a television and don’t look at billboards, you have probably seen campaigns against smoking. That’s because of the many negative health effects that it is known to cause. Most parts of your body can be affected by cigarette smoking in the following ways:

  • Nicotine causes blood vessels to constrict, reducing blood circulation.
  • There are at least 43 cancer-causing substances in the cigarettes.

There are superficial reasons to quit smoking, like the strong smell, yellowing teeth and eyes, and discolored fingertips. Additionally, there are adverse health effects to you and your family:

  • Smoking causes poor circulation from the constricted blood vessels and plaque build-up, leading to peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and ischemic feet. This can also lead to slow wound healing, like with ulcers.
  • Smoking has been known to cause cancer in the mouth, throat, lungs, esophagus, liver, stomach, bladder, pancreas, kidney, cervix, and in the blood.
  • Second-hand smoke can also affect your children’s health as well – possibly even worse than it affects your own health.
  • Smoking while pregnant can make it more likely for a fetus to develop finger and toe deformities, such as webbed feet or extra or missing toes.
  • Adults are at risk of blood clots in the feet and/or legs. If a child or teen picks up smoking, they are at increased risk of blood clots in the legs and feet.
  • Long-term smoking can also cause eventual numbness or tingling in the hands or feet.

The best way to reduce the risk of problems from smoking is to quit and never go back. Smokers affect not only themselves but also the people around them, even in outdoor settings. Put your family (including yourself) first. Quit smoking now; if you need help quitting, speak to your doctor.

If you have foot problems or suspect that your smoking has caused you problems with your feet, let us help you. Make an appointment today at Clark Podiatry Center. Our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Brandon Macy will assess your feet to find the best treatments or solutions for your feet. We are located in Clark, NJ and serve patients in all the surrounding Union County towns!

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By Clark Podiatry Center
May 10, 2016
Category: Foot Care
Tags: blisters   diabetes   neuropathy   ulcers  

Choosing well-fitting shoes, sandals and boots is always a good idea so that you are comfortable and your feet stay healthy. But if you have neuropathy, it's even more important to select footwear wisely to avoid serious complications.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition where the nerves are damaged and don't do their jobs properly. When the nerves in the extremities are involved, the condition is called peripheral neuropathy. Patients with this type of neuropathy often suffer from pain and numbness in the feet. You may also experience a loss of sensation or weakness along with a burning and tingling feeling.

Diabetes is a common cause of neuropathy but there are others. You may be diagnosed with neuropathy if you have had an infection or have been exposed to toxins. Other causes include traumatic injuries and metabolic disorders.

Choose Footwear Carefully If You Have Neuropathy

Do your feet a favor and invest in good quality shoes whenever possible. Here are a few shopping tips:

  • Did you know that your feet are slightly larger at the end of the day? It's best to go shoe shopping in late afternoon or evening.
  • Have both feet professionally measured each time you shop and buy for the larger size.
  • Think comfort and cushion. Leather stretches with your feet and breathes. Opt for shoes with extra cushioning.
  • There should be no "breaking in" period - even brand new shoes should feel comfortable right away.
  • Shoes especially made for individuals with diabetes offer plenty of room in the toe box with good foot protection. Try them even if you don't have diabetes.
  • Don't wear flimsy sandals for any length of time and stay away from sandals with straps between the toes that can cause undetected blistering.
  • If you have any foot deformities along with neuropathy, consider therapeutic shoes that are prescribed just for you. Some models have room for any custom-fitted inserts.
  • Ladies - avoid high heels unless for very brief periods.

Those with peripheral neuropathy must always protect their feet to avoid injury that may not be noticed. Never go barefoot even around your home. You may get a small cut, bruise or blister on your feet that can quickly worsen into an ulcer if unseen.

At Clark Podiatry Center, we are experts at assessing a patient's gait and foot anomalies along with any special health conditions like peripheral neuropathy. Our Online Medical Products Store carries many comfortable shoes and sandals that are protective and good for your feet. They're stylish too!

Patients with Neuropathy Need Regular Foot Care

Because nerve damage reduces the sensation of pain or heat in the feet, it's easy to miss a small injury that can escalate into a big problem. Dr. Brandon Macy, board certified podiatrist has the right experience to quickly and effectively treat any type of foot or ankle issue. Please call our Clark, NJ office for an appointment at 732-382-3470 or use the contact information at the website. Call us today to get started on the road to good foot health!

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Podiatrist - Clark, Dr. Brandon Macy, 1114 Raritan Road, Clark NJ, 07066 732-382-3470