Diabetes can affect the feet in several ways, often creating problems that develop gradually and become serious without early attention. Reduced sensation from nerve damage may make it difficult to feel cuts, blisters, or pressure areas. Poor circulation can slow healing, allowing minor skin injuries to worsen, over time. Changes in foot shape may increase pressure on certain areas, raising the risk of calluses, skin breakdown, and deeper wounds. Infections may also develop more easily when healing is impaired. Some people notice dry, cracked skin, changes in nail health, swelling, or unexplained redness. A podiatrist can examine circulation, sensation, skin condition, and structural changes while helping manage concerns before complications progress. Routine diabetic foot evaluations can play an important role in protecting mobility and overall health. If you have diabetes and notice any foot changes, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist without delay.

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 Braden Jenkins, DPM from The Ridge 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 our office located in Idaho Falls, ID . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail fungus affects the nail and the skin beneath it. It develops when fungi enter through small cracks in the nail or surrounding skin, often in warm and moist environments. Early signs may include discoloration, usually yellow or white, along with thickening and brittleness of the nail. As the condition progresses, the nail may become distorted, crumbly, or separate from the nail bed. Risk factors include wearing tight shoes, excessive sweating, and aging. Conditions that affect circulation may also be factors. The infection tends to worsen over time, if not treated, and can spread to other nails. A podiatrist can diagnose the infection, determine its severity, and provide targeted treatments to restore nail health and prevent recurrence. If you notice signs of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which may include prescribed medication.

For more information about treatment, contact Braden Jenkins, DPM of The Ridge Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Idaho Falls, ID . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Hammertoe is a deformity in which one of the smaller toes bends at the middle joint, creating a shape that resembles a hammer. It occurs more often in women, and it is frequently related to footwear choices that place pressure on the toes. This condition is commonly seen when the second toe is longer than the big toe, which can increase crowding in shoes. Pain may develop on the top of the bent toe from rubbing against footwear, or at the ball of the foot from added pressure. Risk factors include wearing tight shoes, foot structure, and muscle imbalance. A podiatrist can evaluate the toe, recommend supportive footwear, and provide treatment to reduce discomfort. If you have developed a hammertoe, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Braden Jenkins, DPM of The Ridge Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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

Ankylosing spondylitis is a long-term form of arthritis that causes inflammation in the body. It often affects the spine, but it can also involve the feet. This condition includes inflammation where tendons attach to bone and can lead to heel pain. The plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot, may become irritated and cause discomfort while walking. The Achilles tendon at the back of the heel can also become inflamed, leading to stiffness and swelling. Some people notice pain after rest or during the first steps of the day. Such ongoing inflammation may affect foot movement and balance. A podiatrist can evaluate foot pain and order imaging to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options include custom orthotics, bracing, and targeted treatment to reduce strain. If you have foot problems as a result of ankylosing spondylitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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 Braden Jenkins, DPM from The Ridge Foot & Ankle Center. 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 contact our office located in Idaho Falls, ID . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.