Items filtered by date: December 2023

Diabetic foot ulcers are difficult wounds to heal because they can be caused by many factors. Podiatrists have different ways to treat these ulcers, including looking at blood flow problems. Neuroischemic ulcers develop from poor blood flow and nerve damage in the feet, making up approximately half of the cases of diabetic foot ulcers. When a patient has a diabetic foot ulcer, a podiatrist looks at their entire health history, asks about their daily habits, and checks how well they can move and complete everyday activities. The foot doctor also needs to know what medications the patient is taking, as some can slow down healing. All this information helps them determine the best way to treat the ulcer. The top goals are to find out what is causing the ulcer, determine how to stop it from getting worse and encourage the patient to follow the treatment plan. If you have diabetes and have developed a foot ulcer, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible for a thorough assessment, examination, and treatment plan.

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 Richard DiBacco, DPM from Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. 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 feel free to contact one of our offices located in Erie and Meadville, PA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The intricate structure of the human foot, including bones, muscles, and tendons, is susceptible to deformities that either are present at birth or develop over time. Splayfoot, characterized by the widening of metatarsal bones, increases pressure on the forefoot, resulting in pain, calluses, and a heightened risk of developing bunions. Fallen arches, where the foot's arch is flatter than usual, can cause pain over time due to weak foot muscles, abnormal strain, unsuitable footwear, and joint inflammations. Pronated feet, marked by an inward-leaning heel, may arise in childhood, potentially causing issues later in life, particularly in overweight or knock-kneed individuals. People who have high-arched feet, may shift their weight to the ball of the foot, leading to pain, calluses, and an increased risk of ankle injuries. Equinus foot, where the foot points downward and the heel cannot touch the floor due to shortened calf muscles, presents challenges in walking and standing. Clubfoot, a severe congenital deformity involves the foot pointing downward and inward, restricting normal standing and walking. Causes of foot deformities also include abnormal strain, tight footwear, injuries, inflammations, being overweight, and underlying diseases such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. For assistance in managing any of these foot deformities, it is suggested that you add a podiatrist to your medical team and schedule an appointment for an exam and treatment options.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Richard DiBacco, DPM from Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Erie and Meadville, PA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Kidney disease is a serious condition that can give rise to foot problems, primarily due to nerve and blood vessel damage. Two significant complications related to kidney disease and foot health are circulation issues and altered sensation. These changes can develop gradually, often without noticeable symptoms. One common foot problem associated with kidney complications is a foot ulcer, where the skin breaks down, exposing underlying tissue. Unfortunately, the skin's poor healing ability in some kidney disease patients makes them more susceptible to ulcers or infections, even from minor injuries. These foot ulcers can become infected, and if left untreated, may lead to severe complications, including an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. If you have kidney disease, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist to set up regular screenings and assessments to detect any potential issues early and create a personalized treatment plan.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Richard DiBacco, DPM from Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Erie and Meadville, PA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

As we age, maintaining balance and preventing falls becomes increasingly paramount for overall well-being. Simple yet effective strategies can significantly reduce the risk of falls among seniors. Maintaining a regular exercise program, focusing on activities that enhance strength, flexibility, and balance, plays a pivotal role in promoting stability. Adequate lighting within living spaces ensures clear visibility and minimizes tripping hazards. Footwear with non-slip soles and proper support is essential in providing a stable foundation. Regular vision check ups contribute to spatial awareness and hazard detection. Home modifications, such as handrails and grab bars, offer additional support in high risk areas like bathrooms. Medication management, including regular reviews of potential side effects and interactions, is vital. Mindfulness while moving, taking deliberate and controlled steps, adds an extra layer of precaution. By incorporating these preventative measures into daily life, seniors can reduce the likelihood of falls and preserve their independence and well-being. The feet can be affected by falling, and it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist for additional fall prevention techniques.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Richard DiBacco, DPM from Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Erie and Meadville, PA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.