Foot ulcers often occur when poor circulation, nerve damage, or constant pressure prevents the skin from healing as it should. Individuals with diabetes are especially at risk because reduced feeling in the feet can allow small injuries to worsen without notice. Wearing shoes that do not fit well, having dry or cracked skin, or ignoring minor cuts can all contribute to ulcer development. Once a wound forms, bacteria can easily enter, leading to infection and delayed healing. Treatment involves cleaning the area, removing damaged tissue, and keeping pressure off the wound to encourage repair. A podiatrist may also suggest wearing special footwear or custom orthotics to protect the foot. Regular checkups are important to monitor progress. If a foot sore is slow to heal, it is suggested that you seek professional care from a podiatrist who can offer appropriate care and prevent serious complications.

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 Highlands Foot and Ankle. 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 office located in Waco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle tendonitis is inflammation of the tendons around the ankle joint, often caused by overuse, improper footwear, flat feet, or sudden increases in physical activity. Common types include Achilles tendonitis, posterior tibial tendonitis, and peroneal tendonitis. Symptoms may involve aching, swelling, stiffness, and tenderness along the affected tendon, especially after activity or in the morning. The area may appear red or warm and can become painful when walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods. The pain is usually localized but can radiate along the ankle or lower leg. A podiatrist can diagnose the specific type of tendonitis through a physical examination, medical history, and imaging studies, such as ultrasound or MRI. Treatment may include anti-inflammatory medications, custom orthotics, targeted exercises, and temporary immobilization. In more severe cases, advanced therapies or surgery may be needed. Since untreated tendonitis can lead to chronic pain or tendon rupture, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Highlands Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Waco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Living with arthritis in the hips, knees, ankles, or feet often means coping with unpredictable flares that can interrupt even simple routines. During these episodes, joints may swell, stiffen, or ache more intensely, making movement difficult. Applying gentle heat for stiffness, and choosing supportive shoes can provide comfort. Stretching and light activity such as swimming help preserve flexibility without adding strain. On challenging days, using a cane or walker may prevent unnecessary stress on painful joints. Managing body weight and staying active between flare-ups also play a role in protecting mobility over the long term. Because each case of arthritis is unique, care should be tailored to individual needs. If you are struggling with recurring lower limb arthritis flare-ups, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for strategies that support joint health and daily comfort.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Highlands Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Waco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.