Diabetes, a chronic metabolic disorder, manifests through various subtle yet significant symptoms that warrant attention. Excessive thirst, a hallmark sign, results from the body's attempt to flush out excess sugar through increased urine production. Frequent urination, often accompanied by an unquenchable thirst, signifies that the kidneys are working overtime to eliminate surplus glucose. Persistent fatigue, even when there is adequate rest, can be attributed to the body's struggle to utilize glucose efficiently for energy. Unexplained weight loss may occur as the cells starve due to insufficient glucose absorption. Elevated hunger levels, paradoxically, can coexist with weight loss, as the body craves more energy in the absence of efficient glucose utilization. The skin on the feet may become dry as a result of having diabetes, and foot wounds that heal slowly may be indicative of compromised immune function, also associated with diabetes. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can perform routine foot exams and offer effective 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 Lauryn Smith-Winton, DPM from S.W. Podiatry Group. 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 our office located in Waldorf, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Neuropathy occurs when nerves become damaged, often affecting sensation and movement. In the feet, it can cause tingling, burning, numbness, or sharp pain that worsens over time. Common causes include diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, infections, and certain medications. Poor circulation, alcohol use, and metabolic disorders increase the likelihood of developing nerve damage. Over time, neuropathy can lead to balance issues and injuries that go unnoticed due to loss of feeling. A podiatrist can evaluate nerve function, identify underlying causes, and recommend treatments such as medication, therapy, or specialized footwear. If you are experiencing unusual sensations or pain in your feet, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Lauryn Smith-Winton, DPM from S.W. Podiatry Group. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Waldorf, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition that involves thickening of the tissue surrounding a nerve, most often between the third and fourth toes. It causes sharp, burning pain in the ball of the foot, tingling, or the feeling of a pebble in the shoe. Risk factors include wearing tight or high-heeled shoes, foot deformities like bunions or flat feet, and repetitive stress from running and other activities. Causes stem from nerve irritation or compression over time. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition through examination and imaging, provide custom orthotics, recommend footwear changes, and offer advanced treatment to relieve pain. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Lauryn Smith-Winton, DPM of S.W. Podiatry Group. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Waldorf, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Achilles tendinitis is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It often develops from overuse, wearing poor footwear, tight calf muscles, or a sudden increase in physical activity. Runners are especially prone to this condition due to repetitive stress on the tendon. Symptoms include stiffness, tenderness, and pain along the back of the heel or lower calf, especially during activity or after rest. A podiatrist can provide a thorough evaluation, recommend custom orthotics, design stretching and strengthening programs, and offer advanced treatments to promote healing and prevent recurrence. If you have pain in your heel or lower calf, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide expert care and lasting relief from Achilles pain.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Lauryn Smith-Winton, DPM of S.W. Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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