Take Care of Diabetic Feet with the Right Shoes

If you have diabetes, don’t underestimate the importance of your shoes!

There is much to monitor if you have diabetes and it can get overwhelming at times, even for someone who has lived with the disease for years. A foot problem is one thing that can bring serious danger and consequences and the right shoes can make all the difference.

Dr. Tina Boucher is a foot specialist highly dedicated to caring for her patients with diabetes. A foot problem left untreated can lead to wounds, ulcers and even amputation. We can’t stress enough the importance of wearing good shoes if you have diabetes and here is why:

• Neuropathy is common with diabetes and the nerve damage in your feet impacts your ability to feel pain, heat and cold. For this reason, you need to be wearing shoes that support and protect your feet from foreign objects, cold temperatures and hot sand or sidewalks.

• A poorly made pair of shoes may have rough stitching and areas of pressure. This can lead to the formation of blisters and even a small blister has the potential to turn into a serious wound.

• Any pain or inflammation present can be made worse by wearing ill-fitting shoes.

• Any current deformity such as Charcot foot, hammertoes or small amputation needs to be stabilized and protected to avoid further damage.

• Custom orthotics are often beneficial to those with diabetes to provide extra support and stabilization. A good pair of shoes will need extra room to accommodate them.

If you have been trying to follow these general rules but continue to have foot pain or if a bad pair of shoes has left you with an injury, please contact us for treatment. Make an appointment today at Central Connecticut Footcare Center by calling (203) 238-3668. Allow Dr. Boucher to take care of your feet so you can concentrate on the other things that matter in life.

Healing Charcot Foot - The Need for Speed!

Of all the foot conditions that can affect your ability to lead a normal and active life, Charcot foot is probably one of the most difficult to deal with. This condition begins with peripheral neuropathy, which is loss of feeling in the feet. Your inability to feel pain allows this condition to worsen because without the pain sensation, you may not recognize that a problem exists. Continued weight bearing causes bones to begin to break and splinter, then heal improperly and causing deformity. It is possible for you to break bones and damage joints and not even be aware of it. Early diagnosis and treatment is the only way that the damaging effects of Charcot foot can be set right.

Never underestimate the importance of rest. Stopping weight bearing activity is crucial to successful treatment and in addition to total rest for the foot while it heals, your doctor may recommend a special device such as a cast, wheel chair, crutches, walker or brace. Listen to your doctor. The fact that you do not process pain is a major concern. You may feel fine and think you are well, but if the healing process is not complete, you will cause more damage.

Warning…
If you continue walking on your foot, the deformity may cause ulcers to develop. Infection or amputation is possible.

Dr. Boucher will work with you to develop a treatment plan. Call (203) 238-3668 for an appointment. If you seek early intervention, treatment methods may consist of elevation, icing, casts or braces. A delay may cause severe complications and result in the need for surgery or amputation. Stay on the winning side of foot health by learning to examine your feet daily, carefully looking for signs of warmth, swelling and redness. Hustle in to see your doctor if you notice something amiss.

References:

http://www.centralctfootcare.com/library/3765/CharcotFoot.html
http://www.centralctfootcare.com/diabetes-and-your-feet.html
http://www.footandankledoctors.com/patient-library/articles-a-f/charcot-foot

Contact Dermatitis - Calls for Rash Measures

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Have you ever experienced a breakout on your feet with inflammation and itching, and not understood what was happening? It was probably contact dermatitis. It’s not serious or life threatening, but it is annoying and may drive you crazy.

Symptoms of this condition may include:

• Red rash or bumps
• Itching
• Dry cracked red patches
• Blisters
• Pain and tenderness

Causes of contact dermatitis are varied and may include soaps, chemicals and poisonous plants as well as other substances your skin may be exposed to. Two types of dermatitis are recognized - irritant contact and allergic contact. Irritant contact occurs when a substance damages the outermost layer of skin. In some instances a single exposure can result in an aggravating outbreak. Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when the skin is exposed to a substance that sensitizes it. Exposure to an allergen may cause an outbreak of red rash, bumps and sometimes blisters. Common offenders are natural rubber, metals such as those found in costume jewelry, cosmetics, perfumes and poison ivy. You may not develop an immediate allergic reaction to the offending substance, but it may build up until you suffer an immune reaction. It may take years, but once you have an allergic reaction, you will always have that allergy.

Although the two categories of dermatitis provide a guideline, there are substances that may cross the line and become both. Some of the known offenders include:  

• Antibiotics or other medicinal compounds found in ointments that you may apply to your skin
• Fragrances found in lotions
• Nickel
• Shoes and socks
• Natural rubber
• Adhesive tapes

Bacterial and fungal skin infections may appear as a complication because of constant scratching. Moist and draining blisters provide a haven for bacteria and fungus. People with diabetes need to be especially aware of the potential risks of contact dermatitis. If you have diabetes and experience an outbreak should contact Dr. Boucher immediately.

If you are able to identify the substance which has caused your reaction, and remove contact, symptoms may resolve within a couple of weeks. Cold compresses and over-the-counter anti-itch medication may help, as well as, foot soaks in mild solutions of salt water, vinegar or betadine. However if you have attempted home treatment and your condition has not improved, contact Dr. Boucher at (203) 238-3668 and let the healing begin.

References:

http://www.centralctfootcare.com/library/1754/Allergies.html
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/contact-dermatitis/DS00985/DSECTION=symptoms

Related articles

• Understanding Dyshidrotic Eczema
• Skin Rash
• Scalp Dermatitis Treatment

Diabetes - Different Diagnosis, Same Problems

Syringe 5 with drops. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Type I diabetes is a chronic condition where a necessary hormone (insulin) is not produced, or is not produced in adequate amounts, to allow the body to convert sugars to energy at the cellular level.  As a result, a person with Type I diabetes needs to take insulin to prevent sugar from building up in the bloodstream.  There is no known cure for Type I Diabetes although it can be managed. Complications from this disease develop over the years, so the closer the blood sugar can be kept to normal, the fewer complications may develop.

Type II Diabetes is more common than type I. This is when the body becomes resistant to insulin or fails to produce sufficient quantities so that once again, the body lacks the required insulin to carry sugar to the cells for conversion to energy. Family history and lifestyle play a large role in the development of Type II Diabetes.

The third type of Diabetes is Type 1.5. It is sometimes referred to as slow onset Type I or latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA). If this type of diabetes is well managed, the organ damage that is so common in type II diabetes may be avoided.

In any form of diabetes, the key is to monitor and manage blood glucose levels to prevent the problems that can occur to skin, heart, kidneys and feet. There are several important components to managing any type of diabetes. They include:

    •    Diet

    •    Exercise

    •    Oral medications

    •    Insulin injections

    •    Regular health checkups

    •    Good preventive care

A diabetic patient’s feet are more susceptible to wounds and infections. Preventive care is especially important to you. If you have diabetes, but you aren’t seeing a podiatrist regularly, then you are not getting the best care. Dr. Boucher and her staff are available to help you battle the effects of diabetes on your feet. They have a preventive treatment program and up to date technology to help with diabetic Neuropathy. Call for an appointment at (203) 238-3668. Delaying could lead to serious complications.

References:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/type-2-diabetes/DS00585
http://www.diabetesnet.com/about-diabetes/types-diabetes/type-15

Related articles

• Type I and Type II Diabetes - What It Means To Your Feet (eastpennfoot.wordpress.com)
• Dancing Teen: Interview with Jill and Alyssa. (sixuntilme.com)
• Type 2 diabetes harder to treat in youngsters: study (todayonline.com)

Knock your Socks Off!

November is Diabetes Awareness Month and Central Connecticut Foot Care Center is dedicated to helping educate our patients and the community about this epidemic.
According to the American Diabetes Association, nearly 12% of the Hispanic population has diabetes and 66% are at risk of developing the disease when compared to other ethnic groups. When it comes to your feet, diabetes is a very dangerous disease and should not be ignored. Even if you have your diabetes under control, you should see a podiatrist for routine diabetic foot care. Diabetes is the leading cause of non-traumatic lower-limb amputations and with proper care, most amputations can be avoided.
Think you know a lot about diabetes? Take this quiz created by the American Podiatric Medical Association to test your knowledge!
Dr. Tina A. Boucher, DPM
Central Connecticut Foot Care, LLC
Podiatrist Meriden CT
http://www.centralctfootcare.com
Order your free copy of our books "Why Do My Feet Hurt?" and "Heal My Heel!" today! Copies will be sent to Connecticut residents only.

Tips for Beach Feet

If you are planning on going to the beach this summer and walking around barefoot, follow these tips from the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.

1. Puncture Wounds and Cuts.

Wear protective shoes so your foot does not get cut by broken glass, sea shells, and other sharp objects that may be on the beach. If you do get a cut, do not go into the water, as bacteria already present in lakes and oceans can cause infections. A serious puncture wound on the foot should be treated by a podiatrist within twenty-four hours of occurrence.

2. Jellyfish Stings

Even if the jellyfish has washed ashore it can still sting you if you get too close. If tenacles stick to your foot or ankle, remove them, taking caution not to sting your hands as well. Jellyfish stings can be treated with vinegar, meat tenderizer, or baking soda to reduce swelling and pain.

3. Sunscreen

Skin cancer can appear on the foot and ankle like any part of your body. Take precautions and apply sunscreen to your feet and ankles on the top and bottom.

4. Burns

Hot pavement, concrete, or asphalt can cause severe burns on the bottom of your foot. Remember to wear protective shoes when you are walking on all kinds of surfaces.

5. Ankle Injuries, Arch and Heel Pain

While playing a game of beach volleyball or running on the sand, you can accidentally twist your ankle. Performing athletics on uneven surfaces can cause arch and heel pain , especially if you are wearing flimsy flip-flops or sandals. If you injury yourself, remember to RICE: Rest, Ice, Compress, and Elevate.

6. Diabetic Risks

People with diabetes shoul be especially careful since they often do not feel when they get a cut or if something is lodged in their foot. If you have diabetes, never go to the beach without protective shoes and if you take them off, have someone check for foreign objects.

Dr. Tina A. Boucher, DPM

Central Connecticut Foot Care, LLC
Meriden, CT Podiatrist
http://www.centralctfootcare.com/
Order your free copy of our books "Why Do My Feet Hurt?" and "Heal My Heel!" today!

Caring for Diabetic Feet

According to the American Diabetes Association, about 15.7 million people (5.9% of the United States population) have diabetes. Nervous system damage (also called neuropathy) affects about 60 to 70 percent of people with diabetes and is a major complication that may cause diabetics to lose feeling in their feet or hands.

Foot problems are a big risk in diabetics. Diabetics must constantly monitor their feet or face severe consequences, including amputation.

With a diabetic foot, a wound as small as a blister from wearing a shoe that's too tight can cause a lot of damage. Diabetes decreases blood flow, so injuries are slow to heel. When your wound is not healing, it's at risk for infection. As a diabetic, your infections spread quickly. If you have diabetes, you should inspect your feet every day. Look for puncture wounds, bruises, pressure areas, redness, warmth, blisters, ulcers, scratches, cuts, and nails problems. Get someone to help you, or use a mirror.

Dr. Tina A. Boucher, DPM
Central Connecticut Foot Care, LLC
Podiatrist in Meriden CT
http://www.centralctfootcare.com/
Order your free copy of our books "Why Do My Feet Hurt?" and "Heal My Heel!" today!

November is Diabetes Month

With Thanksgiving just a week away, it is tempting to think of all the tasty treats that the holiday offers. However, if you are a diabetic, a holiday without pies, cookies, and cakes is not nearly as fun. As well as hosting one of America's most popular holidays, November also marks National Diabetes Month.
People with diabetes also need to check their feet on a daily basis. Small problems, if left untreated, can turn into big problems that require major medical interventions. To prevent this, it’s a good idea for diabetics to get regular check—ups at our office.
If you have diabetes and feel leg pain at night, or after exercising or walking, that could indicate a blocked artery. Get medical attention right away.
To protect your feet, wear socks that aren’t tight or constricting. Always wear shoes or slippers, and shake them out before you put them on. People with diabetes may have nerve damage and may not be able to feel sharp objects, which could cut them. Because diabetes causes poor circulation, it reduces the body’s ability to heal from even a tiny cut.
You can also support a family member who has diabetes by encouraging them to do the following check, or offering to help them:
· Inspect diabetic feet daily for cuts, redness, and drainage. Watch to see if toe nails have become deformed, discolored, or are not growing.
· Look for toes which appear pink, red, or purplish, which may be a sign of poor circulation.
· Notice any corns or calluses caused by shoe friction, but don’t trim these due to the risk of injury or infection. Make an appointment with our office instead.
Call our office if you notice any signs of trouble, and, if you have diabetes, remember to keep a healthy eating plan in mind when you smell that pumpkin pie.

Dr. Tina A. Boucher, DPM
Central Connecticut Foot Care, LLC
Podiatrist
http://www.centralctfootcare.com