How Weight Affects Diabetic Foot Health

Excess weight can have a significant effect on foot health, especially for people living with diabetes. Added weight increases pressure on the bones, joints, and soft tissues. This can lead to pain in the heels, arches, and ankles. Diabetes can make these problems more serious because it affects blood flow and nerve function. Nerve damage, called neuropathy, reduces feeling in the feet and can make it difficult to notice injuries. Poor circulation slows healing and increases the risk of complications. Together, excess weight and diabetes create conditions that place the feet under greater strain and increase the likelihood of ongoing foot problems.

Overweight diabetics face a higher risk of foot ulcers. These are open sores that develop when skin and tissue break down. Increased pressure on certain areas of the foot can lead to skin damage. Reduced feeling caused by neuropathy can prevent a person from noticing early warning signs. Foot deformities, joint pain, and arthritis also occur more frequently in people who have diabetes and are overweight. Arthritis, which causes joint inflammation and discomfort, can make standing difficult and cause pain when walking. A podiatrist can evaluate pressure points, identify developing problems and create a treatment plan designed to protect the feet and reduce complications.

Weight changes can also affect foot function in diabetics. While reducing body weight can lessen stress on the feet, diabetes-related damage to nerves and blood vessels can remain present. Because of this, continued foot monitoring is important. A podiatrist can examine the feet for changes in skin condition, circulation, and foot structure. Regular evaluations can help identify ulcers, deformities, and areas of excessive pressure before they become more serious. Professional care plays an important role in helping diabetics maintain mobility and protect long-term foot health. If you have diabetes and have developed foot pain related to excess weight, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

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 one of our specialists from Dr. Lee S. Cohen Associates. Our doctors 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 Marlton, NJ and Ridley Park, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about How to Care for Diabetic Foot

Seeing a Podiatrist for Heel Pain

Heel pain is one of the most common reasons patients visit a podiatrist. Common causes of heel pain include plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, bursitis, heel spurs, or a stress fracture. While all of these injuries are different, there are a few signs to look for to determine whether or not consulting with a podiatrist is necessary. Immediate treatment will be needed if there is severe pain or swelling, loss of mobility in the foot, inability to bear weight, or redness. Other symptoms that will require care from a podiatrist include pain that lasts more than two weeks, pain that is getting worse, and heel pain that persists even when you are not walking or standing. If you have any of the above heel pain symptoms, it is suggested that you make an appointment with podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our specialists of Dr. Lee S. Cohen Associates. Our doctors 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 Marlton, NJ and Ridley Park, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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When Rheumatoid Arthritis Affects the Feet

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition that can affect the small joints of the feet, often causing pain, swelling, warmth, and morning stiffness that lasts longer than expected. Many people first notice discomfort in the front of the feet or toes, making walking uncomfortable, especially after rest. As the condition progresses, joint damage may lead to shifting toe position, reduced stability, and pressure points that make wearing shoes difficult. Because this condition affects the immune system, symptoms may involve both feet in a similar pattern rather than appearing from a single injury. A podiatrist can evaluate joint changes, walking mechanics, and areas of abnormal pressure while helping to manage discomfort and protect foot function. Early recognition matters because untreated inflammation can lead to lasting structural changes. If you are experiencing persistent foot swelling, stiffness, or unexplained joint pain, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an evaluation.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our specialists of Dr. Lee S. Cohen Associates. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

  • Swelling and pain in the feet
  • Stiffness in the feet
  • Pain on the ball or sole of feet
  • Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Marlton, NJ and Ridley Park, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Reasons for Morning Foot Pain

Morning foot pain is a common complaint that often feels worse with the first few steps after getting out of bed. This can happen because the feet remain still overnight, which leads to tight muscles, stiff joints, and reduced movement of fluids within the tissues. Inflammation, the body’s response to irritation or injury, may build up during nighttime rest and increase discomfort by morning. The most common cause of morning foot pain is plantar fasciitis, which is an irritation of the thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot. Arthritis, tendon irritation, and nerve-related problems are other causes. Wearing shoes that lack proper support, overuse from activity, or changes in foot structure can also play a role. A podiatrist can perform a detailed exam, assess foot alignment, and order imaging to find the exact cause. Treatment includes custom orthotics, bracing, or other targeted care to reduce strain and improve function. If your feet hurt when you get up in the morning, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our specialists from Dr. Lee S. Cohen Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Marlton, NJ and Ridley Park, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Finding the Perfect Running Form for Marathon Success

Achieving the perfect running form for marathon running starts with proper foot support and efficient movement. Choosing the best running shoes depends on terrain and the shape of your arches. Pronated feet roll inward, neutral feet maintain balanced alignment, and supinated feet roll outward, each requiring different support. A smooth foot strike, where the foot lands gently and evenly, helps reduce stress and improve endurance. Additionally, good posture and steady rhythm also play a role in preventing injury over long distances. Risk of discomfort can increase with poor footwear or improper mechanics. A podiatrist can assess your gait, recommend the right shoes, and prescribe custom orthotics to address gait issues. If you have developed foot pain from running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact one of our specialists from Dr. Lee S. Cohen Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

  • Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
  • Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
  • Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Marlton, NJ and Ridley Park, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Walking Shoes vs. Running Shoes
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