A diabetic foot ulcer is an open sore or wound that develops on the foot as a serious complication of diabetes-related nerve damage and poor circulation. Reduced sensation in the feet may prevent a person from noticing small injuries, which can gradually develop into ulcers if untreated. Symptoms include redness, drainage, swelling, and slow-healing skin breakdown. Risk factors involve long-term diabetes, nerve-related changes, reduced blood flow, wearing poorly-fitted footwear, and inadequate foot care. Proper care includes daily foot inspections, maintaining clean and dry skin, supportive footwear, and seeking early medical attention for any skin changes. A podiatrist can evaluate circulation, treat wounds, and guide preventive care. If you have diabetes and if foot wounds or skin changes appear, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

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 Gelbmann Podiatry. 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 contact our offices located in Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Mechanical foot pain occurs when bones, joints, tendons, or ligaments are placed under repeated stress. This type of discomfort often results from poor alignment, overuse, wearing improper footwear, or age-related changes in the foot structure. Patients may experience sharp heel pain, arch strain, or forefoot discomfort that worsens with activity. Recent advances in care focus on identifying the exact source of strain and correcting it with targeted treatment. Digital gait analysis allows providers to study walking patterns in real time. Custom-made orthotics are now designed using precise scanning technology to improve weight distribution and reduce joint stress. Shock wave therapy has become a non-invasive option provided by some podiatrists that stimulates tissue repair in chronic conditions. In some cases, regenerative-based treatments are used to support healing in soft tissue injuries. Early evaluation improves long-term outcomes and prevents worsening symptoms. If you have ongoing foot pain that limits daily activity, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Gelbmann Podiatry. 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 our offices located in Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetes affects how the body handles blood sugar, but it also has a major impact on foot health. Over time, high glucose levels can damage nerves and blood vessels in the feet. Reduced sensation makes it easier to miss blisters, cuts, or pressure points, while poor circulation slows healing and increases infection risk. Small problems can quietly turn into open sores or ulcers if they are not noticed early. Changes in foot shape, walking patterns, and skin condition can add even more stress to vulnerable areas. These complications can interfere with daily life, and, in severe cases, lead to serious outcomes that affect mobility and independence. The good news is that many foot problems related to diabetes can be prevented. Daily self-checks, wearing proper footwear, and routine professional care make a real difference. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for regular foot evaluations and guidance.

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 one of our podiatrists from Gelbmann Podiatry. Our doctors 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 offices located in Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Healthy foot function plays an important role in stability and safe movement as people age. Changes in strength, joint motion, and sensation in the feet can interfere with balance and walking patterns. Foot pain may cause individuals to shorten steps, shift weight unevenly, or avoid placing full pressure on one side, which increases the chance of losing balance. Stiff toes, limited ankle movement, and reduced awareness of foot position further affect how the body responds to uneven surfaces or sudden changes in direction. These factors together can raise the risk of falls, which often lead to injury and loss of confidence. Addressing foot discomfort, wearing supportive footwear, and managing structural or nerve-related issues may help improve steadiness. If foot pain, instability, or frequent stumbles occur, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation and appropriate care.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Gelbmann Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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