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The Purpose of Diabetic Limb Salvage
Limb salvage surgery is a medical procedure aimed at preserving a limb that may otherwise require amputation due to severe injury, infection, or complications from conditions such as diabetes. In diabetic limb salvage, the primary goal is to prevent amputation by addressing issues like diabetic foot ulcers, infections, and poor circulation that are common among individuals with diabetes. The procedure typically involves cleaning and debriding infected tissue, improving blood flow through vascular surgery, and sometimes reconstructing damaged bone or soft tissue. In some cases, the surgeon may use skin grafts or other techniques to promote healing. By preserving the limb, limb salvage surgery allows for better functionality and quality of life. Early intervention and ongoing care are essential for a successful outcome, as untreated diabetic complications can lead to more severe consequences. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage this condition and discuss the limb salvage procedure with you.
Diabetic Limb Salvage
Diabetic limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have a foot ulcer and diabetes, consult with Steven Spivak, DPM from Mount Holly Family Footcare. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Diabetic Limb Salvage?
Diabetic limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot, that has an infected ulcer, from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.
Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Amputation has been found to lead to higher mortality rates. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lumberton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
How Diabetes Can Affect Foot Health
Foot problems caused by diabetes can significantly affect a patient’s health and quality of life. Two common conditions that contribute to diabetic foot complications are loss of protective sensation, or LOPS, and peripheral artery disease, or PAD. Loss of protective sensation occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the nerves in the feet, leading to reduced sensation. This can prevent a diabetic patient from feeling injuries like sores, blisters, or temperature changes, which in turn increases the risk of developing wounds that may become ulcerated or infected. Peripheral artery disease restricts blood flow to the feet resulting from a buildup of plaque. This slows the healing of sores and can lead to foot ulcers or, in severe cases, amputations. A podiatrist can monitor and address these problems by assessing nerve function, checking circulation, and providing guidance on protective footwear and foot care routines. If you have foot problems caused by diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule regular visits to a podiatrist who can help you to manage them.
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 Steven Spivak, DPM from Mount Holly Family Footcare. 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 office located in Lumberton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Managing Leg and Ankle Edema
Leg and ankle edema, or swelling, occurs when excess fluid accumulates in the tissues of the lower limbs. This condition is often caused by poor circulation, injury, prolonged sitting or standing, or underlying medical issues like heart, kidney, or liver disease. Edema can be uncomfortable, restrict movement, and, if untreated, can lead to skin infections or sores. Seeing a podiatrist for leg and ankle edema can be beneficial. A podiatrist will assess the underlying causes, which may involve checking circulation, reviewing your medical history, and performing diagnostic tests. This type of doctor can recommend treatments such as compression therapy, elevation techniques, and exercises to reduce fluid buildup. For chronic cases, they might collaborate with other healthcare providers. If you have persistent edema in your lower limbs, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you identify underlying causes and provide relief strategies.
Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Steven Spivak, DPM of Mount Holly Family Footcare. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:
- Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
- Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
- Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
- Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
- Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.
Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet.
Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lumberton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
It's Time for Beautiful Feet
You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.
A Look at Crooked Toes
Crooked toes, such as hammertoe, claw toe, and mallet toe, are deformities that cause the toes to bend abnormally. Hammertoe involves a middle joint that bends downward, while claw toe affects both joints, causing the toe to curl downward like a claw. Mallet toe is similar to hammertoe but affects only the joint closest to the toenail, causing it to bend down. Common symptoms include pain, difficulty walking, corns, and calluses on the tops of or between the toes. Wearing tight footwear often worsens these conditions. Relief and treatment options include wearing properly fitted shoes, using orthotics, and performing toe-stretching exercises. In more severe cases, a podiatrist may recommend splints, targeted exercises, or surgery to straighten the toes. If you have crooked toes and is causing pain or discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to receive an accurate diagnosis and explore treatment options.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Steven Spivak, DPM of Mount Holly Family Footcare. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.
Symptoms
- Painful and/or difficult toe movement
- Swelling
- Joint stiffness
- Calluses/Corns
- Physical deformity
Risk Factors
- Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
- Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
- Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
- Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe
Treatment
If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lumberton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Exploring the Anatomy of the Foot
The foot is a remarkable structure composed of numerous bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, tendons, and fascia, all working in harmony to provide stability and mobility. The foot contains twenty-six bones, including the tarsal bones, which form the hindfoot and midfoot. Key tarsal bones include the calcaneus and talus, which support body weight and facilitate movement. Joints between these bones allow for flexibility and range of motion. Ligaments connect bones and provide stability, while muscles and tendons enable movement and support the foot's arches. The plantar fascia, a thick band of connective tissue, plays a vital role in maintaining the arch and absorbing shock. Together, these components allow the foot to adapt to various surfaces, absorb impact, and enable activities such as walking, running, and jumping, highlighting its vital role in overall mobility and balance. If you have foot pain for any reason, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can treat various foot and ankle conditions, and further educate you on foot anatomy.
If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Steven Spivak, DPM from Mount Holly Family Footcare. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Biomechanics in Podiatry
Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.
A History of Biomechanics
- Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
- In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.
Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.
Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lumberton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Relief From Foot Stress Fractures
A foot stress fracture is a small crack in a bone commonly caused by repetitive force or overuse. Symptoms often include localized pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest. Swelling and tenderness in the affected area may also be present, making it difficult to walk or engage in physical activities. The primary causes of foot stress fractures include sudden increases in exercise intensity, wearing inadequate footwear, and poor biomechanics. To find relief, it is essential to rest and elevate the affected foot when possible. Mild pain medications can help manage discomfort. Seeking medical advice from a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis is vital, as it may involve imaging tests to assess the severity of the fracture. If you have symptoms of a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.
Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Steven Spivak, DPM from Mount Holly Family Footcare. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.
How Are They Caused?
Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon. Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.
Risk Factors
- Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
- Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
- Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
- Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
- Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures
Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lumberton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Understanding Ankle Pain Without Injury
Sudden ankle pain without an obvious injury can be perplexing and may stem from several underlying causes. Autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can lead to inflammation in the joints, resulting in pain and swelling in the ankle. Arthritis itself, particularly osteoarthritis, can cause sudden discomfort due to wear and tear on the joint over time. Additionally, foot alignment issues, such as flat feet or high arches, can contribute to abnormal stress on the ankle, leading to pain that appears suddenly. Symptoms of these conditions often include swelling, stiffness, and difficulty bearing weight. If your ankle hurts without an obvious reason, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is and guide you toward appropriate treatment options.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Steven Spivak, DPM from Mount Holly Family Footcare. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
- Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
- Ankle sprains
- Broken ankles
- Achilles tendonitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- Bursitis
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lumberton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Heel Pain Can Be Treated!
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
Common Gait Problems in Children
Gait problems in children are a common concern, particularly during early development stages. Common issues include in-toeing, where the feet turn inward and out-toeing, where the feet turn outward. Flat feet, where the arch of the foot is not well defined, is another issue that deserves attention. While many children exhibit these patterns as their feet and leg muscles strengthen, these issues often resolve as the child grows. However, persistent or severe gait abnormalities can lead to discomfort, tripping, or difficulty keeping up with other children. A podiatrist can assess your child’s gait pattern to determine if intervention is needed. This foot doctor may recommend exercises, custom orthotics, or other treatment to improve foot function and help with any pain. Catching these problems early can prevent long-term complications and ensure that your child’s feet develop correctly. If your child is exhibiting signs of gait abnormalities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and diagnosis.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Steven Spivak, DPM of Mount Holly Family Footcare. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lumberton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
