For individuals managing diabetes, a foot wound is not just a minor injury, it represents a serious health risk. Elevated blood sugar over time can damage nerves, called neuropathy, and cause a dulling sensation so a small cut or blister goes unnoticed. Additionally, poor circulation, known as peripheral artery disease, slows healing, turning a simple wound into a chronic, non-healing ulcer that puts you at high risk for infection and potential limb loss. A podiatrist's role involves an important risk assessment to determine your level of vulnerability. This comprehensive exam includes checking for nerve function using specialized tools, assessing blood flow through palpation and Doppler studies, and evaluating any structural deformities that cause pressure points. This detailed information allows us to implement a targeted prevention and treatment plan, which is essential to safeguarding your mobility and overall health. Do not wait for a problem to appear. If you have diabetes and notice any changes to your feet, skin, or nail condition, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

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 Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. 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 our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to attack the joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and stiffness. When it affects the feet and ankles, it can damage the joints, tendons, and ligaments, making walking and standing painful. Common symptoms include swelling, warmth, redness, joint deformities, and difficulty in moving the toes or ankles. Over time, this condition can cause significant changes in foot structure. A podiatrist can provide treatments to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility through custom orthotics, supportive footwear, and joint protection strategies. If you have symptoms of RA in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management solutions. 

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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

Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the posterior tibial nerve becomes compressed as it travels through the tarsal tunnel on the inside of the ankle. The tarsal tunnel is similar to the carpal tunnel in the wrist. This pressure on the nerve can cause pain, tingling, numbness, or burning sensations in the foot and ankle. Common causes include flat feet, injury, swelling, or systemic conditions like diabetes. Risk factors involve repetitive stress and prolonged standing. A podiatrist can diagnose tarsal tunnel syndrome through a physical exam and nerve testing, then create a treatment plan that may include orthotics or minimally invasive procedures. If you have persistent ankle or foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A sprained ankle is one of the most frequent injuries in volleyball and happens when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn. Quick movements, jumping, spiking, or blocking often lead to awkward landings that place excess force on the joint. Sprains are classified by degrees of severity. A mild sprain, or first degree, involves slight stretching with minor pain and swelling. A moderate sprain, or second degree, includes partial tearing with noticeable bruising and difficulty walking. A severe sprain, also known as third degree, involves complete ligament tearing, significant swelling, and instability. A podiatrist can assess the degree of injury, provide treatment, and create a rehabilitation plan to restore strength and prevent re-injury. If you have sprained your ankle while playing volleyball, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can begin the appropriate treatment for recovery.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.