People who are diabetic are generally concerned about developing a diabetic foot ulcer. Proper wound care treatment is crucial for this type of infection, and serious consequences may ensue if prompt medical attention is not received. Research has shown that approximately 25 percent of diabetic patients will develop a foot ulcer, and implementing prevention techniques may help to avoid this. An essential step for this type of wound care treatment can be to remove the necrotic or dead wound tissue. This is referred to as debridement, and there are various ways to treat this. It is important to reduce any pressure on the wound, and often an off-loading boot is worn. The wound is typically drained, and the healthy underlying tissue is examined. Effective prevention methods can include keeping glucose levels within a normal range, drinking plenty of water daily, and eating healthy foods. If you have a diabetic foot ulcer, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can provide the proper 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 one of our podiatrists from Grobowski Foot & Ankle. our doctors 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 Bellevue, Seattle, and Issaquah, WA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

If you are a new college student or are the parent of one, it can be important for you to learn about the dangers of contracting athlete’s foot from shower floors. Many colleges and universities across the country provide students with communal showers. However, if a student uses one of these showers without wearing shower shoes, they may be making themselves more susceptible to developing athlete’s foot. Since the fungus that causes athlete’s foot thrives in environments that are warm and moist, communal shower floors are an ideal place for this fungus to live and spread. A student may consider wearing a kind of flip flops or water shoes while using communal showers to mitigate their risk of contracting athlete’s foot. To learn more about preventing athlete's foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Grobowski Foot & Ankle.  our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

Due to the nature of their employment, many people across the country must spend the vast majority of the workday standing on their feet. This could potentially pose problems for pregnant women. Specifically, pregnant women who stand for the entire workday may notice poor circulation in their feet, in addition to increased swelling, or edema. If you are a pregnant woman and must stand for long periods of time during the workday, it is wise to consider taking breaks throughout the day to sit down. Perhaps you may consider resting for 15-minute intervals. Keeping yourself hydrated may also be helpful, and it is beneficial to refrain from drinking caffeinated beverages. If you are pregnant and working on your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for helpful relief tactics.  

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Grobowski Foot & Ankle. our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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

Bones in the feet and ankles are common areas for stress fractures. A stress fracture happens from repeated pressure on a bone. It is this repeated stress that differentiates a stress fracture from a typical broken bone. Runners and dancers are prone to stress fractures of the feet and ankles, especially after an increase in the level of activity. Certain other groups, such as those with osteoporosis, those with abnormalities of the foot structure or biomechanics, and those on certain medications, can have an elevated risk for stress fractures as well. A stress fracture can cause pain that is heightened with weight bearing or when direct pressure is applied to the affected bone. After such an injury, it is important to decrease weight-bearing activities to prevent a more unstable fracture from occurring. Diagnosis of a stress fracture can be difficult because it does not always show up on an X-ray. A CT scan or MRI is more sensitive to picking up these types of fractures. If you feel you might have sustained a stress fracture to your foot or ankle, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Grobowski Foot & Ankle. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellevue, Seattle, and Issaquah, WA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

People who develop rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, are no strangers to the pain this condition can cause. The symptoms that often accompany this ailment can include stiffness, and the joints throughout the body may be swollen. The feet can be affected by rheumatoid arthritis, and it may be difficult to walk and complete daily activities. RA is considered to be an autoimmune disease, and it attacks the lining of the joints. Some patients can experience fevers, extreme fatigue, and possible weight loss. The components of the feet that are affected can include the cartilage, toe joints, and the joints that connect the foot and the ankle. Patients who are afflicted with RA look for relief, and may find it, by wearing custom-made orthotics, practicing a regular exercise routine, and maintaining a healthy weight. If you have foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat rheumatoid arthritis.

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 podiatrists of Grobowski Foot & Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Bellevue, Seattle, and Issaquah, WA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Salt is a mineral that is familiar to the vast majority of Americans. Countless different people around the country choose to flavor their food by sprinkling salt on it almost every day. However, excessive salt intake can have potentially negative consequences for the feet. Specifically, when an individual eats too much salt, their ankles can effectively swell up because of increased water retention. Therefore, before eating too much salt, someone who is experiencing swollen feet might be more hesitant to increase their salt intake. If you are living with persistently swollen ankles, it is highly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today who can answer any questions you might have and provide treatment. 

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Grobowski Foot & Ankle. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellevue, Seattle, and Issaquah, WA, . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Some people notice small signs that they may be developing a bunion. It may be more difficult to take long walks, and wearing high heels may prove to be painful. Bunions develop gradually, and can happen for genetic reasons or from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room in the toe area. This can cause the side of the big toe to rub against the shoe, and a small, hardened bump may form. A bunion is considered to be a deformity, and it may cause the other toes to shift toward each other. A callus or corn may form on top of the bunion, and the toe may be red and difficult to move. Temporary relief may be found when the shoes that are worn fit correctly. Some patients place a protective pad over the bunion, which may help to protect it against developing calluses. Wearing custom made orthotics may help to reduce existing discomfort, and performing specific foot exercises may prove to be beneficial in strengthening the foot. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you additional relief solutions. 

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Grobowski Foot & Ankle. our doctors 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 Bellevue, Seattle, and Issaquah, WA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetic patients can often be at an increased risk of developing foot conditions. For example, diabetic patients can be susceptible to what is known as foot ulcers. Ulcers are essentially open sores that do not easily heal in a timely fashion. There are many things that can potentially increase a diabetic’s susceptibility to developing ulcers. For example, if a diabetic wears shoes that do not fit correctly because they are too tight for that individual, then they might be more likely to develop ulcers. Also, obesity or being overweight is another risk factor that is linked to an increased risk of foot ulcers as a diabetic. Lastly, excessive alcohol consumption as a diabetic is strongly linked to the development of ulcers among those who suffer from diabetes. If you are living with diabetes, then it is highly suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for treatment and advice.

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 one of our podiatrists from Grobowski Foot & Ankle. our doctors 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 Bellevue, Seattle, and Issaquah, WA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flip-flops are notoriously a potentially detrimental type of footwear that can wreak havoc on the health of an individual’s feet. Flip-flops were originally created to be only a summer-time shoe, used for beachwear. The name “flip-flops” became popularized in the 1950s. Since this time, flip-flops have grown in popularity and the shoe has been used outside of the beach context. Unfortunately, flip-flops do not provide significant foot support, which can essentially set the foot up for the development of a foot condition or affliction. Since the toes must scrunch up to keep the shoe on the foot, this can also set the foot up for the onset of a foot condition. If you wear flip-flops, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for more information.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Grobowski Foot & Ankle. our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

• Ankle problems
• Hip problems
• Lower back problems
• Pain in the balls of the feet
• Problems with foot arches
• Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

• Sprained ankles
• Blisters
• Infections
• Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

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

Foot pain is often ignored until it impacts everyday routines. Having chronic foot pain may cause unstable foot function, which can increase the chances of falling. Common reasons for foot pain can include obesity and wearing shoes that do not fit correctly for extended periods. A stress fracture can be a likely cause of foot pain and can cause difficulty in walking. Heel pain can come from plantar fasciitis, a heel spur, or an Achilles tendon injury. General foot pain may be indicative of psoriatic arthritis and can affect the toenails, heels, and soles of the feet. Additionally, gout is a form of arthritis that often targets the joints in the big toe. Gout occurs due to excess uric acid levels in the blood which may come from specific types of foods that are eaten. If you have foot pain for any reason, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat various types of foot pain.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Grobowski Foot & Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Bellevue, Seattle, and Issaquah, WA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.