Diabetic foot problems can develop when nerve damage and poor circulation affect the health of the feet. Reduced sensation may make it harder to notice injuries, while limited blood flow can slow healing. Too much pressure on the feet from wearing improper footwear can lead to sores or irritation. Checking shoe and sock fit is important to avoid rubbing or tight areas. Keeping feet clean and drying carefully between the toes can help prevent infection. Risk factors include uncontrolled blood sugar, poor circulation, and lack of routine foot care. A podiatrist can monitor foot health, treat concerns early, and provide guidance for prevention. If diabetic complications are affecting the feet, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

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 one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Health Center. Our doctors 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 Rogers and Berryville, AR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Peripheral artery disease, often called PAD, occurs when arteries become narrowed and reduce blood flow to the legs and feet. This limits oxygen delivery to tissues, which can lead to pain, especially during walking, known as claudication. Some people may also notice cold feet, skin color changes, or slower nail and hair growth. In more advanced cases, wounds on the feet may heal very slowly or not at all, increasing the risk of infection. Because the feet are far from the heart, they are especially vulnerable to poor circulation. Early detection is important to help prevent serious complications. A podiatrist can check circulation, monitor skin health, and help manage foot-related risks of PAD through routine care and guidance. They also work with other providers as needed. If you have leg pain with walking or slow-healing foot wounds, it is suggested that you seek care from a podiatrist.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Health Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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

A hammertoe occurs when one of the smaller toes bends abnormally at the middle joint, creating a curled or claw-like shape. While it may begin as a mild change, it can gradually affect how the entire foot functions. As the toe loses its normal position, pressure shifts to the ball of the foot, altering weight distribution with each step. This can place extra demand on surrounding joints, tendons, and muscles, leading to compensation patterns in walking. Over time, these changes can increase tension along the sole of the foot, particularly in the plantar fascia, the band of tissue that supports the arch. As strain builds, discomfort may extend beyond the toes into the heel or ankle. Without proper management, the condition can worsen and impact overall mobility. If you have a hammertoe, it is suggested that you seek early care and guidance from a podiatrist who can help restore balance and reduce ongoing foot stress.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot Health Center. Our doctors 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 Rogers and Berryville, AR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toe pain can come from many different causes, ranging from minor irritation to more serious conditions. Common reasons include ingrown toenails, corns, calluses, and blisters caused by wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or stress fractures can also lead to pain and swelling. Medical conditions may also play a role. Arthritis can cause stiffness and discomfort in the joints, while gout leads to sudden, intense pain often affecting the big toe. Nerve issues, like pinched nerves or neuropathy, may cause burning or tingling sensations. Infections or fungal nail problems can also contribute to discomfort. Treatment depends on the cause, but may include wearing proper footwear, rest, medications, or minor procedures. Early care can prevent symptoms from worsening. If you are experiencing persistent toe pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot Health Center. 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 contact our office located in Rogers and Berryville, AR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.