Taking care of diabetic feet is essential because diabetes can affect circulation, nerve sensation, and skin health. Diabetic feet may look dry, cracked, or swollen, and can develop calluses, wounds, or nail changes. They may feel numb, unusually cold, or painful, making injuries harder to notice. Reduced sensation and poor blood flow increase the risk of infection and slow healing. A podiatrist can help from the start by performing a thorough foot examination, checking circulation and nerve function, and identifying early warning signs. Diagnosis may include sensory testing, skin assessment, and nail evaluation. Treatment focuses on regular foot care, safe callus and nail management, and wound prevention. If ulcers or infections develop, prompt podiatric treatment supports healing and reduces serious complications. Ongoing care helps protect mobility, comfort, and independence. It is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist if you have diabetes-related foot complications.

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 Darlyne Cange, DPM from Cange Podiatry, DPM, PA. Our doctor 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 offices located in Glen Burnie and Ellicott City, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Bursitis of the heel occurs when a small fluid filled sac near the Achilles tendon becomes irritated, often from pressure, repetitive rubbing, or increased activity. This irritation can cause a deep ache at the back of the heel, along with swelling, warmth, or tenderness when wearing shoes with a stiff heel counter. Some people feel sharper pain when rising onto the toes or after long periods of standing. Rest and changes in footwear may ease the discomfort, but persistent symptoms often need more directed care. A podiatrist can examine the area to confirm the source of the pain, recommend supportive shoes or padding, and offer treatments that reduce inflammation. In some cases, imaging or targeted therapies may be used to calm the irritated tissue. If your heel pain continues to interfere with daily comfort, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Darlyne Cange, DPM of Cange Podiatry, DPM, PA. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Glen Burnie and Ellicott City, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Turf toe occurs when the big toe is forced upward while the heel lifts, such as during a sprint or a sudden jump. This motion, which is common among athletes, strains the soft tissues surrounding the joint at the base of the toe. Playing on artificial turf increases the risk because the surface is firm and offers little shock absorption, which can make the toe bend back more unexpectedly. Sports that demand quick direction changes, pushing off the toes, or landing from a jump also place stress on this joint. Flexible shoes or flip-flops can make the big toe bend too far and lead to injury. A podiatrist can examine the toe joint, order imaging to look for damage, and offer treatment to protect the joint. If a tear is severe and pain does not improve, surgery may be needed to repair the area. If you have joint pain under the big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Darlyne Cange, DPM of Cange Podiatry, DPM, PA. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Glen Burnie and Ellicott City, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A puncture wound on the foot occurs when a sharp object penetrates the skin and creates a small but deep injury that can easily introduce bacteria. Common causes include stepping on nails, splinters, glass, or metal fragments, especially while walking barefoot or wearing thin-soled shoes. Proper management is important because these wounds can trap debris and lead to infection. Care often involves thorough cleaning, appropriate medicine to prevent infection, a tetanus vaccine if needed, and, in some cases, surgery to remove foreign material or treat deeper damage. A podiatrist can assess the injury, provide precise wound care, and monitor healing to avoid complications. If you have sustained a puncture wound on your foot, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist for safe and 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 Darlyne Cange, DPM from Cange Podiatry, DPM, PA. Our doctor 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 offices located in Glen Burnie and Ellicott City, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.