A non-diabetes-related foot ulcer is an open sore on the foot that develops from factors other than diabetes. These ulcers often form due to poor circulation, pressure, trauma, or underlying skin conditions. Common causes include arterial disease, venous insufficiency, friction from footwear, and repetitive stress. Types of non diabetes related ulcers may include arterial ulcers, venous ulcers, and pressure ulcers, each affecting the foot in different ways. Symptoms can include slow healing wounds, drainage, redness, pain, or skin breakdown. A podiatrist can identify the type and cause of the ulcer, provide proper wound care, improve pressure distribution, and help prevent infection or further tissue damage. If you notice a sore on your foot that does not heal or worsens over time, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and expert 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 Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC. 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 Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Cracked heels are a common foot condition that occurs when the skin surrounding the heel becomes excessively dry, thickened, and unable to stretch properly. As pressure builds, the skin splits, leading to visible cracks that may cause pain, bleeding, or discomfort. Common symptoms include rough, flaky skin, redness, and deep fissures along the heel. Cracked heels can develop due to vitamin deficiency, dry skin and dehydration, in addition to mechanical stress, prolonged barefoot walking, and excess pressure on the feet. Fungal infections and other skin conditions may also weaken the skin and contribute to cracking. A podiatrist can identify the underlying cause, provide professional debridement, recommend moisturizing treatments, and address infections or biomechanical issues. If you have painful cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication. 

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact One of our podiatrists from Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition that occurs when the tibial nerve, located along the inner ankle, becomes compressed or irritated. This pressure can result from inflammation, swelling, bone spurs, or structural abnormalities in the foot. Common symptoms include tingling, burning, numbness, or sharp pain along the sole, heel, or arch, often worsening with prolonged standing or activity. If left untreated, the condition may affect mobility and lead to chronic discomfort. A podiatrist can evaluate nerve function, identify underlying causes, and create a personalized treatment plan. Care may include orthotics, anti-inflammatory strategies, or, in severe cases, surgical intervention. If you have pain on the inside or your ankle, it i s 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 Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC. 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 Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot pain can arise from a variety of medical conditions that affect circulation, metabolism, or joint health. Vascular disease may reduce blood flow, causing cold or painful feet. Diabetes can lead to neuropathy, resulting in numbness, tingling, or slow-healing wounds. Thyroid disorders may cause swelling, stiffness, or changes in foot structure. Gout produces sudden, intense joint pain and redness, often in the big toe. Bunions create a visible bump, discomfort, and difficulty walking. Recognizing symptoms early is essential for preventing complications. A podiatrist can evaluate underlying causes, provide customized treatment plans, and offer interventions like orthotics, footwear recommendations, or specialized care to manage pain and improve mobility. If you have any type of foot problem, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat various foot and ankle conditions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with One of our podiatrists from Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC. our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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