Foot infections are fairly common in people with diabetes, and they often begin after a minor injury that might seem harmless. When not treated early, these infections can lead to serious complications, including hospital stays and even limb loss. Prevention matters most for those with wounds that are slow to heal, deep, return, or occur alongside poor circulation. Careful daily checks for cuts or blisters, prompt cleaning and protection of any break in the skin, and wearing well-fitting footwear can lower the risk. Managing blood sugar also supports healing and reduces infection chances. If you notice redness, warmth, drainage, or increasing pain, seek care right away. For guidance and treatment, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an expert evaluation and appropriate 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 Pauline Fu, DPM from New York, NY. 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 New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Proper shoe fitting is essential for maintaining foot health, especially when shoes are too narrow and place excess pressure on the toes and forefoot. Tight footwear can compress the toes, leading to irritation and redness. It also can contribute to formation of bunions or nerve pain like Morton's neuroma. The foot may develop overlapping toes or areas of thickened skin where friction occurs. Discomfort may worsen throughout the day and make walking or standing difficult. Causes include choosing fashion over fit, changes in foot shape, or not accounting for natural swelling. A podiatrist can assess foot size, shape, and gait to recommend properly fitting footwear and supportive options. Treatment may also include padding, orthotics, and guidance on selecting shoes with adequate width, depth, and cushioning. Choosing the correct shoe size and avoiding narrow styles can reduce pressure and prevent long-term problems. If you have foot pain related to shoe fit, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Pauline Fu, DPM from New York, NY. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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

Recurrent ankle sprains occur when the ankle repeatedly twists or rolls. This is often due to weakened ligaments that did not fully heal after a previous injury. This can develop from inadequate rehabilitation, poor balance, or returning to activity too quickly. Symptoms include ongoing pain, swelling, instability, and a frequent feeling that the ankle may give way. Risk factors include participation in sports, uneven surfaces, improper footwear, and reduced strength or coordination. A podiatrist can evaluate ankle stability, assess gait, and recommend treatment. Options include bracing, custom orthotics, and strengthening exercises to restore support and function. Early care is essential to prevent further damage and long-term complications. If you have difficulty with ankle sprains, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment and rehabilitation tips.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Pauline Fu, DPM from New York, NY. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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

Morton’s neuroma is a condition involving thickening of nerve tissue in the foot, most commonly located between the third and fourth toes. It often causes pain in the ball of the foot that may feel like burning, tingling, or the sensation of standing on a small object. This condition can develop from irritation or compression of the nerve. Common causes include flat feet, high arches, bunions, repetitive sports activities, and wearing tight or narrow shoes. Symptoms may worsen with walking or prolonged standing. Risk factors include wearing improper footwear, foot structure, and repetitive stress. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the condition, relieving pressure on the nerve, and recommending supportive care. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat what may be going on.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Pauline Fu, DPM of New York, NY. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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