Peripheral artery disease, PAD, is a circulatory condition that significantly impairs the flow of blood to the extremities, particularly the feet. PAD can pose serious health risks and include symptoms that can drastically affect daily living. This condition results from the accumulation of fatty deposits in the arteries, causing them to narrow. This also causes a reduction in blood supply. People with PAD may experience various symptoms in their feet, including a notable decrease in temperature compared to the rest of the body, a change in skin color to a pale or bluish hue, diminished hair growth, delayed wound healing, and sores. Furthermore, PAD can lead to pain or cramping in the lower limbs during physical activities. This typically subsides with rest. The risks of PAD go beyond discomfort because the decreased blood flow heightens the risk of infection. Severe cases can lead to gangrene and the possibility of amputation. If you are suffering from PAD, it is suggested you seek the help of a podiatrist, or foot doctor, who can provide a personalized treatment plan and address any foot-related concerns. 

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, 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.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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.

Bunions are common foot deformities that can be recognized by the formation of a bony bump at the base of the big toe. The tip of the toe is then pushed in the opposite direction, toward the smaller toes. A bunion is often accompanied by pain, inflammation, restricted toe movement, and the development of calluses or corns. While anyone can develop a bunion, certain risk factors heighten susceptibility. Wearing ill-fitting footwear, particularly high heels or narrow shoes, exerts pressure on the toes and contributes to bunion formation. Additionally, genetic predispositions play a significant role, with family history indicating a higher likelihood of developing foot structure abnormalities that may lead to bunions. Various foot conditions such as flat feet, low arches, or previous foot injuries increase the risk. Medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and connective tissue disorders are often associated with bunions. If you or your child show a tendency toward developing a bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and recommended treatment measures. 

If you are suffering from bunions, 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.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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.

Ankle sprains are common injuries that can disrupt daily activities and sports participation. Effective management of ankle sprains involves understanding the severity of the injury and implementing appropriate treatment strategies. Ankle sprains are often classified into three grades, based on the extent of ligament damage. Grade I sprains involve mild stretching or microscopic tears of the ligaments, resulting in minimal swelling and pain. Grade II sprains involve partial tearing of the ligaments, leading to moderate swelling, pain, and instability. Grade III sprains are the most severe, involving complete tearing of the ligaments, significant swelling, and joint instability. Management of ankle sprains typically begins with elevation which may help to reduce any existing swelling. In severe cases, immobilization with a brace or boot may be necessary to facilitate healing. Gradual return to weight-bearing activities and sports should be guided by pain tolerance and functional improvement, aiming to prevent recurrent injuries and promote long-term ankle health. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the grade of the sprain and offer appropriate treatment methods.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, 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.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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.

The surge in global diabetes has led to a rise in diabetic foot ulcers, posing significant health challenges. In the mid-19th century, Marchal de Calvi and Thomas Hodgkin identified the link between diabetes and foot gangrene, paving the way for pioneering treatments like Frederick Treves' sharp debridement method. Treves emphasized pressure relief and patient education. The discovery of insulin in the 20th century improved diabetic patients' lives but also increased foot disease cases. Elliot Joslin established the first foot clinic in 1928, advocating a multidisciplinary approach. Penicillin's discovery in 1928 revolutionized infection treatment, reducing amputation rates. Revascularization techniques and limb salvage became critical, with Frank Wheelock pioneering bypass grafts. Topical negative pressure therapy emerged in the 1990s, aiding wound healing. Despite advancements, chronic diabetic ulcers remain a challenge, with ongoing research for new treatments. Current treatment involves a multidisciplinary approach, controlling diabetes, and utilizing various wound care methods. Challenges persist, underscoring the importance of diabetics scheduling routine appointments with a podiatrist for foot examinations and specialized care.

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.