A foot wound often needs more than a clean dressing. Each step can pressure damaged skin, slow healing, and deepen the wound. An off-loading device reduces that pressure by shifting weight away from the sore area. A podiatrist can recommend a healing shoe, sandal, or walking boot. A heel-suspension boot is also a choice. Prefabricated sandals and healing shoes differ in their design, materials, and purpose. They can provide better fit, support, and protection than standard choices. However, a ready-made device needs a molded footbed or custom insert to provide proper support and pressure relief.

A podiatrist selects and adjusts the device based on the wound and foot shape. The correct device must fit well and stay in the proper position. A custom insert can have a recessed area under the wound so the sore spot does not bear weight. A metatarsal bar can move pressure away from the front of the foot. A higher boot can give added support to a foot with major shape changes. For a heel wound, a specially cut boot can keep the injured area from touching a bed, chair, or footstool. 

Off-loading works best as one part of professional wound care. A podiatrist can examine the wound, remove unhealthy tissue, and apply an appropriate dressing. Follow-up visits allow the doctor to check healing and adjust the device as swelling or pressure points change. Patients should use the off-loading device exactly as directed, including when walking or resting. A poorly fitted device can rub the skin, shift pressure to a new area, or cause the wound to worsen. Prompt care is especially important if redness, drainage, or swelling develops. Odor can also signal a problem. If you have a foot wound that needs professional care, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can discuss the benefits of off-loading devices with you.

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 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.

The Achilles tendon is the strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It plays an important role while walking, running, and pushing off the foot. When this tendon becomes irritated, stretched, or torn, it can make everyday movement painful. Achilles tendon injuries can develop from repeated stress on the tendon or from a sudden movement that places too much force on it. The risk also increases when the calf muscles are tight or when wearing shoes that lack proper support. Pain usually develops at the back of the ankle or just above the heel. Swelling, stiffness, and tenderness also are common. Some patients notice pain at the beginning of activity that becomes worse after continued movement. A complete tear can cause a popping sensation followed by severe pain and weakness.

A podiatrist performs a thorough examination to identify the type and severity of the injury. The evaluation includes checking the foot and ankle for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion. The podiatrist also observes how the patient stands and walks to identify changes caused by the injured tendon. Imaging tests, like ultrasound or MRI scans, provide a clear view of the tendon and help confirm a partial or complete tear. Finding the injury early helps prevent additional damage and allows treatment to begin before the condition becomes more serious.

Treatment depends on the condition of the tendon and the patient's activity level. A podiatrist develops a treatment plan that reduces stress on the tendon while helping restore strength and flexibility. Care includes custom orthotics to improve foot support and reduce strain on the tendon. It also includes guided stretching and strengthening exercises.  If you have symptoms of an Achilles tendon injuries, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment solutions.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. 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.

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 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.