May 2024

Non-diabetic foot ulcers, though less common than those stemming from diabetes, can be equally troublesome if left untreated. These ulcers are often related to poor circulation, nerve damage, or trauma. Risk factors include peripheral artery disease, neuropathy, infections, and pressure injuries. Symptoms include persistent pain, redness, and swelling from open wounds that do not heal. Treatment generally involves wound care, infection management, and addressing underlying causes, such as improving blood flow or adjusting footwear. Advanced therapies may also be used. Prognosis varies depending on the ulcer's severity and the patient's overall health, but prompt intervention significantly improves outcomes. If you have a foot wound that is not healing, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and 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 Dr. Ronald K. Olm from Grand Traverse Foot & Ankle Center. 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 Traverse City and Kalkaska, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Over time, uncontrolled diabetes can affect various parts of the body, including the feet. Elevated blood sugars create a favorable environment for infections, particularly in moist areas of the feet. People with diabetes are also at a heightened risk of peripheral neuropathy. This diminishes sensation in the feet and makes it challenging to detect injuries or infections. Factors like poor circulation and impaired wound healing increase the likelihood of foot ulcers and subsequent infections. Treatment of diabetic foot infections varies depending on their type and severity. Antibiotics, wound care, surgical interventions, and optimizing glycemic control are commonly employed strategies. To prevent diabetic foot infections, it is essential to identify and address the risk factors. For that reason, it may be necessary to have regular foot examinations by a podiatrist for early detection and intervention. If you have developed a diabetic foot infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can conduct a thorough examination and provide the proper treatment options. 

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 Dr. Ronald K. Olm from Grand Traverse Foot & Ankle Center. 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 one of our offices located in Traverse City and Kalkaska, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Wind, wave, and kite surfing offer exhilarating experiences, but they also pose risks of foot and ankle injuries. Collisions with the board, submerged obstacles near the shore, or rotation trauma with the foot secured in straps are common culprits. Reef cuts and open wounds, prevalent in tropical waters, can lead to severe infections. Among the array of potential injuries, midfoot injuries are particularly concerning and often result in chronic instability and arthritis if not properly addressed. Additionally, falls with the foot trapped in straps necessitate examination for Lisfranc joint lesions and subtalar injuries. A podiatrist can help to manage these injuries. Podiatrists can accurately diagnose conditions, offer tailored treatment plans, and provide rehabilitation strategies to promote optimal healing and prevent long-term complications. If you have sustained an injury from surfing, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help restore your foot and ankle function.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Dr. Ronald K. Olm of Grand Traverse Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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

Sever's disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a common cause of heel pain in growing children and adolescents, especially in those who play sports. This condition occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed, often due to repetitive stress from activities like running and jumping. This, combined with the pressure of rapid bone growth during puberty, can create painful heels. The pain may worsen during or after physical activity and include tenderness to the touch. It may also lead to limping, especially after waking up or more intense physical activities. Treatment typically involves rest and various exercises that stretch and strengthen the leg muscles and tendons. Footwear with proper cushioning and support is also suggested to help alleviate symptoms. With appropriate management, symptoms usually resolve with the completion of the growth spurt, as the heel bone matures. If your child has painful heels and you suspect Sever’s disease, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and management techniques. 

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Ronald K. Olm from Grand Traverse Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Traverse City and Kalkaska, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.