Puncture wounds from pedaling injuries are common in children and teens and occur when the foot slips off a bicycle pedal and strikes the sharp metal surface. This can cause small but deep wounds that may introduce bacteria into the skin. Symptoms include pain, bleeding, swelling, and tenderness. In some cases, signs of infection such as redness or drainage may develop. Risk factors include bike riding without proper footwear, wet or worn pedals, and lack of experience or control while cycling. Without prompt care, complications can arise. A podiatrist can help by properly cleaning the wound to prevent infection and guiding healing. If your child has a foot injury from cycling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide effective treatment.

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 Nashville Family Foot Care. Our practitioners 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 Nashville, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ingrown toenail surgery, known as matricectomy, is a procedure used to treat recurring or painful ingrown toenails by removing part or all of the nail matrix to prevent regrowth. This condition occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, and possible infection. Risk factors include improper nail trimming, wearing tight footwear, injury, and genetic nail shape. During the procedure, a podiatrist carefully removes the affected portion of the nail and applies a solution to stop it from growing back. This offers a long-term solution and relief from repeated issues. A podiatrist ensures safe treatment and proper healing. If you have an ingrown toenail that is uncomfortable or painful, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this type of foot surgery is right for you. 

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Nashville Family Foot Care. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

Cold feet can be more than discomfort as they often signal poor circulation or Raynaud's phenomenon. This condition involves restricted blood flow causing the toes to feel cold, numb or painful, and they can sometimes change color. Risk factors include smoking, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and prolonged exposure to cold temperatures. Symptoms may worsen during stress or winter months, and can affect balance, skin health, and healing in the feet. Without proper care, complications like sores or infections may develop. A podiatrist can evaluate circulation, identify underlying causes, and recommend lifestyle changes, protective footwear, and therapies to improve blood flow. If your feet are consistently cold or have become discolored, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat and manage what might be going on. 

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Nashville Family Foot Care. Our practitioners will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness 
• Numbness or cramping in the legs
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

Foot problems in people with diabetes can become serious quickly because circulation and nerve sensation are often reduced. Loss of feeling may prevent pain from acting as an early warning sign, allowing small issues to progress unnoticed. Open sores, skin cracks, redness and swelling, in addition to warmth, drainage, or sudden color changes require urgent attention. A blister or callus that does not heal, blackened skin, or foul odor may indicate infection or tissue damage. Even mild swelling or temperature changes in one foot should be taken seriously to preserve long-term foot mobility. Delaying care increases the risk of deep infection and future complications. Daily foot checks and prompt reporting of changes play a critical role in prevention. If any diabetic foot changes appear suddenly or worsen despite home care, it is suggested that you promptly see a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

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 Nashville Family Foot Care. Our practitioners 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 Nashville, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.