Items filtered by date: January 2024

Debridement wound care is often necessary for the proper healing and prevention of complications in foot wounds. Debridement, whether with special dressings, maggots, or mechanical methods, aids in removing dead or infected tissue and facilitates healing. After this procedure, it is important to regularly change the dressing, as per your podiatrist’s instructions. Keeping the dressing dry by avoiding activities like swimming or hot tubs is vital. Always maintain cleanliness by washing your hands before and after touching the wound. Avoid applying pressure and use cushions or crutches, if necessary. While debridement carries potential risks like irritation, bleeding, or infection, its benefits often outweigh these. Pay attention to signs of infection, such as increasing pain, redness, swelling, or fever. If you have foot wounds or have had a debridement procedure and healing is slower than expected or shows signs of infection, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for care.

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 Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Miami, North Miami Beach, Miami Beach, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Blackened toenails are caused by repetitive pressure and friction, often occurring when the toe is forced against the front edge of a shoe's toe box. While sometimes referred to as tennis toe, blackened toenails can also affect athletes in soccer, football, squash, racquetball, basketball, running, and skiing. Symptoms include throbbing pain and a reddish-blue or black discoloration of the nail plate due to a subungual hematoma, which is caused by blood under the nail. The big toe is more commonly affected in blackened toenails, but the second toe may also be affected. Wearing ill-fitting shoes plays a pivotal role, causing friction that leads to bleeding under the toenail. In severe cases with significant bleeding, swelling, or infection, visiting a podiatrist is suggested. This foot doctor may relieve pressure on the subungual hematoma by making a small hole in the nail or, in extreme cases, recommend partial or complete nail removal. Prevention involves wearing well-fitted shoes and recognizing early symptoms. Whether you are an avid athlete or enjoy an active lifestyle, if you notice discoloration in the toenails, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment solutions.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Miami, North Miami Beach, Miami Beach, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Talipes equinovarus, commonly known as clubfoot, is a congenital foot condition characterized by abnormal positioning of the foot and ankle. In this disorder, the foot turns inward and downward, creating a distinctive appearance where the sole faces inward and the heel points upward. The precise cause of talipes equinovarus remains unclear, though a combination of genetic and environmental factors is believed to contribute. Early diagnosis is vital for effective management, often involving a series of manipulative techniques, casting, and, in some cases, surgical intervention. Left untreated, talipes equinovarus can lead to gait abnormalities and hinder normal physical development. Though the condition poses challenges, advancements in medical interventions provide hope for improved outcomes. If your child has been born with this foot condition, it is strongly suggested that you seek the expert advice of a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment methods.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Miami, North Miami Beach, Miami Beach, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

As young athletes embark on their journey in sports, the health of their feet and ankles becomes paramount to their overall well-being and performance. The developing musculoskeletal system of young individuals is more susceptible to various conditions that can impact their mobility and athletic prowess. Common issues include Sever's disease, an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel, and Osgood-Schlatter disease, which affects the growth plate at the top of the shinbone. Sprained ankles, often incurred during high-impact activities, require prompt attention to prevent lingering complications. Additionally, stress fractures, a result of repetitive strain on the bones, can affect young athletes pushing their physical limits. It is vital for parents, coaches, and young athletes alike to be aware of these conditions, emphasizing the significance of wearing proper footwear and getting adequate rest. If your active child has developed a foot or ankle condition, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer the appropriate treatment methods.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Miami, North Miami Beach, Miami Beach, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot neuropathy, characterized by nerve damage in the feet, can be influenced by various risk factors. Diabetes stands as a primary risk factor, as prolonged high blood sugar levels can lead to nerve damage, causing sensory disturbances in the feet. Alcohol abuse is another significant factor, as excessive alcohol consumption can harm nerves and contribute to neuropathy in the feet. Vitamin deficiencies, particularly B vitamins, may also increase the risk of foot neuropathy. Certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs and those used to treat HIV, can have neuropathy as a side effect. Physical trauma, repetitive stress, or injuries to the feet can damage nerves and lead to neuropathy. Autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus may trigger autoimmune responses that damage nerves in the feet. Hereditary factors, including a family history of neuropathy, could elevate the risk. Awareness of these diverse risk factors is vital for early detection and prevention of foot neuropathy. If you suffer from this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an examination and appropriate 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 one of our podiatrists from Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. Our doctors 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 offices located in Miami, North Miami Beach, Miami Beach, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.