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best podiatrist near you

Why WeTreatFeet are the right Podiatrists for you!

Baltimore Foot Doctor, Baltimore Podiatrist, We Treat Feet Staff , , , , ,

Choosing the right podiatrist is an important decision for your foot care needs.

Your feet are vital to your mobility, and you want to make sure they are in good hands. With so many podiatrists out there, how do you know which one is right for you? In this article, we will discuss some factors to consider when choosing a podiatrist, and explain why WeTreatFeet Podiatry is the right choice for you.

  1. Credentials: One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a podiatrist is their credentials. You want to make sure that they are licensed and that they have the proper training and education to provide the services you need. At WeTreatFeet Podiatry, our podiatrists are all licensed and experienced professionals who have undergone extensive training in foot and ankle care. We have both Maryland and Pennsylvania licensed doctors.
  2. Specialization: Another factor to consider is whether the podiatrist specializes in the type of care you need. For example, if you have a sports injury, you may want to choose a podiatrist who has experience treating athletes. At WeTreatFeet Podiatry, we have podiatrists who specialize in a variety of areas, including sports medicine, diabetic foot care, and surgery.
  3. Reputation: WeTreatFeet Podiatry has an excellent reputation in the community, with many satisfied patients. We care about you and the outcomes of the treatments. We offer a way to complete a satisfaction survey on our website www.wetreatfeet.com
  4. Insurance: Make sure the podiatrist accepts your insurance. At WeTreatFeet Podiatry, we accept most major insurance plans, and we also offer financing options for those who do not have insurance.
  5. Convenience: Finally, you want to choose a podiatrist who is convenient for you to see. WeTreatFeet Podiatry has several locations throughout the region, with flexible hours to accommodate busy schedules.

Why Choose WeTreatFeet Podiatry?

At WeTreatFeet Podiatry, we are committed to providing the highest quality foot and ankle care to our patients. Our experienced podiatrists use the latest techniques and technology to diagnose and treat a variety of foot and ankle conditions, from bunions and plantar fasciitis to ankle fractures and tendonitis. We offer personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s individual needs, and we work closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible outcomes.

In addition to our exceptional care, we also offer a range of patient amenities, including online appointment scheduling, same-day appointments, and on-site diagnostic testing. Our offices are designed to be comfortable and welcoming, with a friendly and knowledgeable staff to assist you with any questions or concerns.

So if you are looking for a podiatrist who is experienced, compassionate, and dedicated to your health and wellbeing, look no further than WeTreatFeet Podiatry. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards healthier, happier feet.

#podiatry #footcare #WeTreatFeet #choosingtherightpodiatrist #healthyfeet #foothealth #footpain #feet #podiatrist #patientcare #footproblems

Baltimore Orioles at WeTreatFeet

WeTreatFeet Partner’s with the Baltimore Orioles

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golf foot injuries treatment in baltimore maryland

Golf Shoes and Your Feet

Baltimore Foot Doctor, Baltimore Podiatrist, Healthy Feet Blog, We Treat Feet Staff , , , , , ,

Golf and WeTreatFeet Podiatry

 

Golf is a popular sport enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. While it may not seem like a particularly strenuous activity, playing golf can put a lot of stress on your feet, especially if you are wearing the wrong type of shoes. In this article, we will explore how golf shoes can hurt your feet and how WeTreatFeet Podiatry can help you address these issues.

 

Gold shoes and your feet

Gold shoes can be hard on your feet

How golf shoes can hurt your feet

Golf shoes are designed to provide support and stability during the golf swing. They are typically made with hard, durable materials like leather and synthetic fibers to withstand the wear and tear of the game. While this may make them sturdy and long-lasting, it can also make them uncomfortable to wear for extended periods.

One of the main ways that golf shoes can hurt your feet is by being too tight. Shoes that are too tight can lead to blisters, calluses, and even toenail injuries. This is because the constant rubbing and pressure can cause friction between the skin and the shoe, leading to painful blisters and calluses. Additionally, if the shoes are too tight, they can restrict blood flow to the feet, which can cause pain and discomfort.

On the other hand, shoes that are too loose can also be problematic. If the shoes do not fit securely, your feet can slide around inside them, which can cause blisters and calluses. Loose shoes can also make it difficult to maintain proper balance and stability during the golf swing, which can lead to injuries.

Another way that golf shoes can hurt your feet is by not providing adequate support. Golf requires a lot of standing, walking, and swinging, which can put a lot of strain on your feet and legs. If your shoes do not provide proper arch support or cushioning, this can lead to pain and discomfort in the feet, knees, and lower back.

Gold shoes ladies wetreatfeet

WeTreatFeet Understands Woman’s golf shoes

How WeTreatFeet Podiatry can help

At WeTreatFeet Podiatry, we understand how important it is to have comfortable and supportive shoes for golf. Our experienced podiatrists can help you address any issues you may be experiencing with your feet while playing golf.

One of the first things we will do is perform a thorough evaluation of your feet. We will examine your feet and look for any issues that may be contributing to your foot pain or discomfort. We may also take X-rays or other diagnostic tests to get a better understanding of your foot anatomy.

Based on our evaluation, we may recommend specific types of golf shoes that are best suited to your feet and your golfing needs. For example, we may suggest shoes that have more cushioning or better arch support to help alleviate pain and discomfort. We may also recommend custom orthotics to provide additional support and stability during the golf swing.

In addition to recommending specific shoes or orthotics, we can also provide tips on proper foot care and shoe selection. For example, we may suggest choosing shoes that are the right size and have adequate cushioning and arch support. We may also recommend shoes made from breathable materials to prevent excessive sweating and foot odor.

We can help!

If you are experiencing foot pain or discomfort while playing golf, WeTreatFeet Podiatry can help. Our podiatrists are experts in foot care and can provide customized solutions to meet your unique needs. With the right shoes and support, you can enjoy playing golf without pain or discomfort in your feet.

WeTreatFeet Podiatry is a team of expert podiatrists dedicated to providing personalized foot care solutions to meet the unique needs of each patient. With a focus on patient education and preventive care, WeTreatFeet Podiatry aims to help patients achieve optimal foot health and function. Whether you are experiencing foot pain or discomfort, have a foot condition that requires treatment, or simply want to learn how to care for your feet better, the team at WeTreatFeet Podiatry can help. They offer a wide range of services, from foot evaluations and diagnostic tests to custom orthotics and surgical interventions. With years of experience and a commitment to compassionate care, WeTreatFeet Podiatry is the go-to resource for all your foot care needs. Visit our 11 locations in Maryland and Pennsylvania, or call us at 410-363-4343

#GolfShoes #FootPain #Blisters #Calluses #ToenailInjuries #ArchSupport #Cushioning #CustomOrthotics #ProperFootCare #ShoeSelection #WeTreatFeetPodiatry #FootEvaluation #DiagnosticTests #BreathableMaterials #FootDiscomfort #GolfingNeeds #ExpertPodiatrists #CustomizedSolutions #PainRelief #ComfortableFeet #EnjoyGolfing.

 

 

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foot and ankle pathology with orthotics

WeTreatFeet Podiatry: Treating Golf Related Foot and Ankle Pathology with Orthotics

Baltimore Foot Doctor, Baltimore Podiatrist, Healthy Feet Blog, We Treat Feet Staff , , , , , ,

 

Happy golf feet

Happy feet from WeTreatFeet

 

As a golfer, you rely heavily on your feet and ankles to perform at your best. Unfortunately, the repetitive nature of the sport can lead to injuries and conditions that affect your ability to play. WeTreatFeet Podiatry is a clinic that specializes in treating foot and ankle pathologies related to golfing. In this article, we will discuss how orthotics can help with a golfer’s slice and the importance of proper balance in driving the ball.

Introduction

Golf is a sport that requires a great deal of skill and precision. A golfer’s swing is the foundation of their game, and any issues with their feet and ankles can greatly impact their ability to perform. WeTreatFeet Podiatry understands the unique needs of golfers and offers specialized treatment options to address foot and ankle pathologies related to the sport.

What is WeTreatFeet Podiatry?

WeTreatFeet Podiatry is a specialized clinic that focuses on the treatment of foot and ankle conditions related to golfing. The clinic is staffed by experienced podiatrists who understand the unique demands of the sport and are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of golf-related foot and ankle pathologies.

What are Orthotics?

Orthotics are specialized shoe inserts designed to correct foot and ankle imbalances and provide support and stability to the foot. They can be custom-made to fit the individual needs of a golfer and address specific issues such as pronation, supination, and flat feet.

How Can Orthotics Help with a Golfer’s Slice?

A golfer’s slice is a common problem that can be caused by several factors, including poor balance and an incorrect swing. Orthotics can help address these issues by providing the necessary support and stability to the foot, improving balance, and allowing for a smoother, more accurate swing.

The Importance of Proper Balance in Driving the Ball

Proper balance is essential for a golfer to drive the ball with accuracy and power. A golfer’s weight should be evenly distributed between their feet, with their hips and shoulders aligned with their target. Poor balance can lead to an unstable swing and inconsistent results.

How WeTreatFeet Podiatry Can Help

WeTreatFeet Podiatry offers a range of treatment options to help golfers improve their foot and ankle health and optimize their performance on the course. From custom orthotics to physical therapy and laser therapy, the clinic provides comprehensive care that addresses the root causes of foot and ankle pain and pathology.

Custom Orthotics for Golfers

Custom orthotics are an excellent option for golfers looking to improve their foot and ankle health and optimize their performance on the course. At WeTreatFeet Podiatry, our experienced podiatrists can evaluate your specific needs and create custom orthotics designed to correct any imbalances and provide the necessary support and stability for a smooth, accurate swing.

Physical Therapy for Foot and Ankle Pain

Physical therapy is another treatment option offered by WeTreatFeet Podiatry. Our experienced doctors work with local physical therapist to develop a personalized plan of care that addresses your specific foot and ankle pain and helps you achieve your goals on the course.

Laser Therapy for Foot and Ankle Pain

Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment option that uses low-level laser light to stimulate healing and reduce pain and inflammation in the foot and ankle. At WeTreatFeet Podiatry, our laser therapy treatments are safe, painless, and highly effective at reducing pain and improving mobility.

Conclusion

At WeTreatFeet Podiatry, we understand the unique needs of golfers and the importance of foot and ankle health for optimal performance on the course. Our experienced podiatrists and therapists offer a range of treatment options, including custom orthotics, physical therapy, and laser therapy, to help golfers address foot and ankle pathologies related to the sport.

If you’re a golfer experiencing foot or ankle pain or looking to improve your game, WeTreatFeet Podiatry can help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards better foot and ankle health.

FAQs

  1. What is WeTreatFeet Podiatry?

WeTreatFeet Podiatry is a specialized clinic that focuses on the treatment of foot and ankle conditions related to golfing.

  1. How can orthotics help with a golfer’s slice?

Orthotics can provide the necessary support and stability to the foot, improving balance and allowing for a smoother, more accurate swing.

  1. What is the importance of proper balance in driving the ball?

Proper balance is essential for a golfer to drive the ball with accuracy and power.

  1. What treatment options does WeTreatFeet Podiatry offer?

#WeTreatFeet #Podiatry #FootHealth #AnkleHealth #Golfers #Golfing #CustomOrthotics #PhysicalTherapy #LaserTherapy #FootPain #AnklePain #Balance #Performance #OptimalHealth #BetterHealth

wetreatfeet

WeTreatFeet Podiatry, foot and ankle surgery and wound care

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Bunion pain treatment in baltimore maryland

WeTreatFeet and Dr. Scott Henry treats bunions in innovative ways

Baltimore Podiatrist, Healthy Feet, Top Content Area, We Treat Feet Staff , ,
Bunion pain

WeTreatFeet Doctors treating that painful bunion

 

Bunions are a common foot condition that affects millions of people around the world. They occur when the joint at the base of the big toe becomes enlarged, causing the toe to point towards the second toe. This can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Traditional treatment options for bunions have typically involved surgery, but now there are more innovative and less invasive methods available. At WeTreatFeet, Dr. Scott Henry is at the forefront of this new approach to bunion treatment.

Dr. Scott Henry is a highly experienced podiatrist with a passion for helping patients achieve optimal foot health. He has developed a reputation for his innovative approach to bunion treatment, which focuses on non-surgical and minimally invasive techniques. Dr. Henry believes that the best way to treat bunions is to address the underlying cause of the problem, rather than simply masking the symptoms.

At WeTreatFeet, Dr. Henry offers a variety of innovative treatments for bunions. Shoe management, orthotics, and medications can also be utilized.

WeTreatFeet also has surgical options available for those who have failed nonsurgical treatments.  Dr. Henry utilizes all the latest techniques to aid his patients.  Lapidus, Austin, and other bunion procedures are available by this experienced physician

Dr. Henry also offers a range of non-surgical treatments for bunions, including physical therapy, stretching exercises, and lifestyle modifications. He believes that the best way to prevent bunions from developing or worsening is to take a holistic approach to foot health, including proper footwear, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight.

At WeTreatFeet, Dr. Scott Henry is dedicated to providing patients with the most innovative and effective bunion treatments available. Whether you are experiencing mild discomfort or severe pain, Dr. Henry can help you find a treatment plan that works for you. If you are suffering from bunions, don’t wait to seek treatment – contact WeTreatFeet today to schedule a consultation.

 

#podiatry #footcare #posture #health #wellness #orthotics #foothealth #bodyalignment #podiatrist #footpain #healthyfeet #footdoctor #fitness #mobility #movement #prevention #healthylifestyle #selfcare #podiatrycare #feetfirst #biomechanics #painrelief #lapidus #Austin # bunion #bunionectomy #orthotics #bunionsurgery #footsurgery

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Skin Substitutes, what you need to know

Baltimore Foot Doctor, Baltimore Podiatrist, Dr. Daniels Diabetic Foot Blog, Uncategorized, We Treat Feet Staff , , , , ,

Dr. Mikel Daniels

Dr. Mikel Daniels

President , Chief Medical Officer, and Managing Member at WeTreatFeet
8 articles

Skin substitutes are an important tool in wound care management. They are designed to replace damaged or missing skin and promote healing in difficult-to-treat wounds. There are both high-cost and low-cost skin substitutes available on the market, each with their own unique benefits and drawbacks. Recent changes by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) have had an impact on the use of skin substitutes in wound care.

High-cost skin substitutes are typically derived from human or animal tissues and are designed to closely mimic the structure and function of natural skin. They are often used in complex wounds that are slow to heal or have poor blood flow. While high-cost skin substitutes can be effective in promoting wound healing, they are also expensive and may not be covered by insurance.

Low-cost skin substitutes, on the other hand, are often made from synthetic materials and are more affordable than high-cost options. They may not have the same level of complexity as high-cost skin substitutes, but they can still be effective in promoting wound healing. Low-cost skin substitutes are often used in less complex wounds or in cases where insurance coverage is an issue.

Recent changes by CMS have had an impact on the use of skin substitutes in wound care. In 2021, CMS changed the way it reimburses providers for skin substitutes. The new payment system, known as the Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS), sets a fixed payment rate for each skin substitute. This has caused some controversy in the wound care community, as some providers argue that the fixed payment rate may not cover the actual cost of high-cost skin substitutes.

The changes by CMS have also led to increased scrutiny of the use of skin substitutes in wound care. CMS now requires providers to document the medical necessity of using a skin substitute and to use the lowest-cost option that is appropriate for the wound. This has led some providers to reevaluate their use of skin substitutes and to consider alternative treatment options.

Despite the changes by CMS, skin substitutes remain an important tool in wound care management. Providers must carefully weigh the benefits and drawbacks of high-cost and low-cost options and make decisions based on the individual needs of each patient. With proper use and documentation, skin substitutes can be an effective tool in promoting wound healing and improving patient outcomes.

#CTP #wetreatfeet #podiatry #skinsubstitute #woundcare

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Dr. Mikel Daniels

Dr. Mikel Daniels
President , Chief Medical Officer, and Managing Member at WeTreatFeet
Published • 22h
8 articles
Skin Substitutes, a quick primer CTP wetreatfeet podiatry skinsubstitute woundcare
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diabetic foot ulcer treatment in baltimore maryland

Achilles Lengthening for Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Baltimore Foot Doctor, Baltimore Podiatrist, Dr. Daniels Diabetic Foot Blog, Healthy Feet, We Treat Feet Staff , , , , , ,

Diabetic Foot Ulcer treatment at WeTreatFeet Podiatry, Foot and Ankle Care, Baltimore, Maryland.

Dr. Mikel Daniels

Dr. Mikel Daniels
President , Chief Medical Officer, and Managing Member at WeTreatFeet

 

Diabetic foot ulcers are a common complication of diabetes, affecting up to 25% of patients with diabetes during their lifetime. One of the main causes of diabetic foot ulcers is peripheral neuropathy, a condition that causes nerve damage, leading to loss of sensation in the feet. As a result, patients with diabetic foot ulcers are at an increased risk of developing serious infections and amputations.

Achilles tendon lengthening (ATL) is a surgical procedure that has been used to treat diabetic foot ulcers. The procedure involves lengthening the Achilles tendon to reduce pressure on the forefoot and increase the offloading of pressure areas. By reducing the pressure on the foot, ATL can promote healing of diabetic foot ulcers and prevent further complications.

Several studies have shown the effectiveness of ATL in treating diabetic foot ulcers. A randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association found that patients who underwent ATL had a significantly higher rate of complete ulcer healing compared to those who received standard care alone (71.4% vs. 20.0%). Another study published in the journal Diabetes Care found that ATL significantly reduced the risk of ulcer recurrence and amputation in patients with diabetic foot ulcers.

While ATL is generally considered a safe and effective treatment for diabetic foot ulcers, it is not without risks. Complications can include wound dehiscence, infection, and nerve damage. Patients considering ATL should discuss the risks and benefits with a WeTreatFeet Podiatrist

Multiple studies have shown, Achilles tendon lengthening is a successful treatment option for diabetic foot ulcers. It has been shown to promote healing and prevent complications in patients with peripheral neuropathy. However, patients should be aware of the potential risks and consult WeTreatFeet before undergoing the procedure.

#DiabeticFootUlcers #AchillesTendonLengthening #PeripheralNeuropathy #DiabetesCare #JAPMA #WeTreatFeet #Podiatry #Podiatrist #DFU #ulcer #amputation

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Can Foot Pain Hurt Productivity?

Baltimore Foot Doctor, Baltimore Podiatrist, Healthy Feet , , , ,

As a podiatrist, I understand the importance of taking care of your feet. But did you know that foot health is also crucial for overall business success? That’s right, healthy feet can help you stand your ground, move forward confidently, and stay on top of your game.

In fact, research shows that foot problems can lead to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and even lost revenue for businesses. That’s why it’s essential to invest in proper foot care, not just for yourself but also for your team.

As a business owner, consider offering your employees regular podiatry checkups and treatments as part of your wellness program. You might be surprised by the positive impact it can have on their overall health and job satisfaction.

If you’re looking for a trusted podiatrist for yourself or your team, I highly recommend our practice WeTreatFeet. Our team of skilled professionals is dedicated to providing top-notch foot care services that can help you put your best foot forward, both in and out of the workplace.

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Why does my diabetic foot hurt?

Dr. Daniels Diabetic Foot Blog , , , , ,

In diabetics, neuropathy is defined as a loss of protective sensation.  The condition occurs in what we call and stocking and glove distribution.  It starts at the distal ends of the toes and fingers, and moves proximally up the foot/hand into the leg/arm.  While there are many causes of peripheral neuropathy, diabetes is the most common.

Neuropathy can occur in several forms.  The most common is sensory neuropathy.  This is a change in the ability of the patient to feel their feet and hands.  Starting in a stocking and glove distribution, a patient will not feel items touching their toes and feet.  Over time, patient can step on objects such as glass shards, nails, or tacks, and will not feel it.  This is a significant risk for infections and amputation.

Neuropathy can also occur as a motor neuropathy.  This is a loss of function in the distal most muscles, and can be combined with sensory neuropathy to be called sensorimotor neuropathy.  The most common examples of this include the development of hammertoes in a neuropathy foot, or ankle contractures causing ulcerations in the ball of the foot.

Lastly, neuropathy can cause an autonomic issue.  This will be symptoms such as a loss of ability to sweat or release oils (also called sebum) from the skin.  This is the type of neuropathy that also involves the cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal system, and genitourinary system.

With loss of sensation and function, patients become higher risk for infections, wounds and amputation.  Daily foot examinations, proper shoe gear, and regular diabetic foot care can prevent many problems.   So that begs the question, if I can’t feel it, why does it hurt?

60-70% of diabetics will eventually suffer from this condition.  The best way to think about it, is to use the telephone as an analogy.  If you are on the phone, and there is static, you can still hear, right?  The more static, the louder you have to yell to have the person on the other end hear you, until eventually there is so much static that you can’t hear anything, and they you hang up.  This is what happens with your nerves.

Each and every nerve in your body is connected directly to your brain.  Millions and millions of individual wires, from every aspect of your body, connected directly to your brain.  As neuropathy advances, the static to your brain increases.  Patients perceive this as neuropathic symptoms, burning, tingling, fire, ices, etc.  The louder the static, the more symptoms, until finally your brain hangs up, and then you have a complete loss of sensation.  This basically means that you can remove portions of your foot without anesthesia and not know it.

Treatments for painful diabetic neuropathy include proper glucose control, diet, exercise, and many different medication options.  You may have even seen a television commercial for Lyrica for example.  There are also sensory feedback options, cold laser and other light treatments, and even surgical options for releasing the nerves.

Best treatment for diabetic Neuropathy is prevention.  Good glucose control, exercise, and preventive foot care are essential.  Treatment once you have symptoms has been successful, but not for everyone.  You may not know you even have it.  The doctors at WeTreatFeet are well versed in this process and can offer you many cutting-edge treatments.  Call today if you want to have t

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What is a diabetic foot skin graft?

Dr. Daniels Diabetic Foot Blog , , , ,

Open wounds on diabetic feet is a significant and often expensive problem to treat.  Diabetic foot wounds, according to Medscape, direct costs for these specific wounds are   $9-13 million dollars yearly. [1]  While we have many different modalities for treating wounds, one treatment type stands out, skin grafts.

A Cochrane review done in February 2016 indicated that these grafts are effective in increasing healing rates.[2]  However, long term success, and cost effectiveness remains uncertain.  The grafts themselves are expensive, running between a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.  However, the overall cost to the community of diabetic wounds is astronomical.  These range from $11,710 to $16,883 per patient with a foot ulcer. [3]

When one says skin graft, most people naturally are thinking autografts.  These are skin grafts that come from the patient.  Skin, removed from another area such as the thigh, is transplanted over a wound.  This treatment originated 3000 years ago in India.  In 1804, an Italian surgeon, Boronio performed a full thickness graft on a sheep.  However, it was 1823 when Bunger reconstructed a nose with graft that these started to be used on a regular basis in medicine.[4]  While these remain a popular option for burns and traumatic wounds, it has fallen out of favor in diabetic foot wounds due to the high comorbidities, such as graft site infection.  I always tell my own patients that I am not a big fan of making a new wound to fix an old wound.

Allografts are grafts from the same species, placed on a different individual.  We often us a product called Theraskin, which is cadaveric skin.[5]  While this is actual human skin, it doesn’t incorporate as well as autograft, and may require several applications.  Apligraf® is a unique, advanced treatment for healing. It is created from cells taken from fetal foreskin, that are cultured and grown to form healthy human skin.[6]  It is actually alive in a dish when it arrives, and must be applied in a specified time frame, or it will die.

Xenografts are a group of grafts that are made from animal products.  These include fish skins, cow bladder, pig intestine, etc.  These contain collage that is the building blood for skin, and often work as scaffolding, helping wounds heal but providing the building blocks for skin.

The latest groups of grafts are amniotic.  These are grafts made from placenta, umbilical cord, or amniotic sac.  These are harvested at birth, prepared to remove all diseases and viruses, then transplanted into wounds.  These are the grafts that possess stem cells, and help the wound develop its own skin.

Not every wound responds to every treatment, and not all wounds were alike.  The challenge wound care physicians face is using an appropriate graft in the correct situation.  Venous wounds, arterial wounds, traumatic wounds, etc. will respond differently to treatments.  Only a skilled, experienced physician, who deals with large quantities of wounds on a regular basis, can tell you which one of the grafts may be right for your wound.  Due to the high costs of these products, this is critical, because applying the wrong product may actually make the wound worse, delaying healing, increasing the risk of infection or amputation.

If you have questions about your wound, or if you need treatment for a chronic wound, call our experts, and we will do everything we can to prevent complications, reduce amputation risk, and help treat the wound.

 

[1] http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/821908

[2] http://www.cochrane.org/CD011255/WOUNDS_skin-grafting-and-tissue-replacement-treating-foot-ulcers-people-diabetes

[3] http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/821908

[4] http://plasticsurgery.stanford.edu/content/dam/sm/plasticsurgery/documents/education/microsurgery/FlapsSelectedReadings.pdf

[5] http://theraskin.com/

[6] http://www.apligraf.com/patient/what_is_apligraf/what_is_apligraf.html

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Modern diabetic wound issues

Dr. Daniels Diabetic Foot Blog , , , ,

Diabetic foot wounds are among the most common complications of diabetes, and are some of the more difficult conditions to treat.  In the USA, yearly, approximately 8% of diabetic Medicare beneficiaries have a foot ulcer.  When these occur, 1.8% of these patients will have an amputation. These are further elevated for patients with lower extremity peripheral artery disease.[i]  The costs of diabetic foot ulcerations range from $12,211 for hospitalizations without amputation, to $34,671 for patients requiring an amputation.[ii]

It is fairly simple to understand why prevention of the first wound or amputation is so crucial.  Somewhere between 50-79% of people hospitalized with a diabetic foot infection will be either unable to work, or unemployed after the episode.[iii]  These events, while often not life threatening, (can become so if not treated) can have significant influences on entire households.  This includes children and spouses.

In our practice, we have a comprehensive policy for diabetic foot prevention.  The first and most important step is education.  I often get asked during new diabetic evaluation questions related to when foot loss or lower extremity amputation will occur (as most of these patients have friends or family members who have had an amputation).  My answer is always the same.  While we can’t prevent every amputation, most are probably avoidable with simple steps.  The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons has set specific guidelines for diabetic foot care.  These include:

  • Inspect your feet daily
  • Bathe feet in lukewarm, never hot, water
  • Be gentle when bathing your feet.
  • Moisturize your feet but not between your toes.
  • Cut nails carefully.
  • Never treat corns or calluses yourself.
  • Wear clean, dry socks.
  • Consider socks made specifically for patients with diabetes. Wear socks to bed. Shake out your shoes and feel the inside before wearing.
  • Keep your feet warm and dry. Never walk barefoot.
  • Take care of your diabetes.
  • Don’t smoke.
  • Get periodic foot exams. [iv]

In our office, we make sure that all diabetics start out with a yearly diabetic foot examination.  This assumes no known preexisting conditions for example vascular disease, neuropathy, or deformities.  As risk factors increase, so do visit frequency.  The range can be from twice yearly all the way up to weekly.  Our doctors know how to evaluate and treat these problems, and have strategies to prevent wounds.

If you have a wound, all is not lost.  First, make sure you get this checked by a qualified physician as soon as possible. Tomorrow is never advisable.  Second, I always tell patients that this is a 2 step process; first is getting the wound healed, second is keeping the wound healed.  The rate of re-ulceration is reported as high as 35–40% over 3 years, and that increasing to 70% over the 5years after the first wound.[v]  Five-year mortality rates after a diabetic foot ulceration have been reported to be between 43 and 55 percent, and can be as high as 74 percent in patients with lower-extremity amputation.[vi]  Prevention is crucial to longevity of patients with diabetes.

Our internal ulceration and amputation rates are much lower than the average throughout the country.  If you are diabetic, even if you have no complications, get your feet checked today.  It may save your life.  Our doctors offer same day and next day appointments, and we provide night and weekend coverage at several area hospitals.

 

 

 

[i] https://effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov/topics/diabetes-foot-ulcer-amputation-prevalence/research/

[ii] Barshes 2012; Barshes 2014

[iii] Van Acker K, et al., 2014; Hogg FRA, et al., 2012; GoodridgeD, et al. 2005

[iv] http://www.acfas.org/footankleinfo/diabetic-guidelines.htm

[v] http://www.woundsinternational.com/media/other-resources/_/1097/files/dfj12-4-181-6.pdf

[vi] http://barefoot-science.com/pages/diabetes/

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