Non-diabetic foot ulcers are open sores or wounds that occur on the feet, typically due to poor circulation, pressure, or injury. Unlike diabetic ulcers, these wounds are not directly caused by high blood sugar levels, but can still lead to severe complications if left untreated. These ulcers often develop from pressure points on the feet, especially in individuals with limited mobility or poor blood flow. Risk factors include age, obesity, peripheral artery disease, and wearing ill-fitting shoes. Recognizing a foot ulcer early is important. Look for persistent redness, swelling, and an open sore that does not heal. To prevent these ulcers, regularly inspect your feet, wear appropriate footwear, and manage any underlying conditions that affect circulation. Treatment involves cleaning the wound, relieving pressure with specialized footwear, and possibly using topical medications. If you notice you have developed a foot ulcer, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can assess the ulcer's severity, provide targeted treatments, and suggest preventive strategies to avoid recurrence, ensuring optimal foot health.

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 doctors from New England 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 our offices located in Wakefield, MA, Nashua and Derry, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Cracked heels, a common foot condition, often result from various risk factors and underlying causes. Dry skin is a primary contributor, often worsened by prolonged standing on hard surfaces. People with diabetes or other conditions affecting blood circulation are at increased risk of cracked heels. Wearing open-backed shoes, flip-flops, or high heels can place undue pressure on the heels, leading to cracks and fissures. Environmental factors, such as low humidity, can also strip moisture from the skin, making it more prone to cracking. Additionally, obesity adds extra weight, which can put additional stress on the heels. Regular moisturizing and wearing supportive, well-fitting footwear can help prevent and manage cracked heels. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for treatment, which may include prescribed medication.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our doctors from New England Foot & Ankle . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

Foot cramps occur when the muscles in your foot or toes suddenly contract, leading to discomfort or pain. These foot cramps can happen to anyone, often striking at night or during periods of rest. While many foot cramps are harmless and resolve on their own, frequent or severe cramps may signal underlying issues. Possible causes include dehydration, deficiencies in minerals like potassium or magnesium, or overuse of the foot muscles. In some cases, foot cramps may be related to more serious health conditions, such as peripheral artery disease, diabetes, or nerve compression. Wearing improper footwear, like high heels or shoes that lack support, can also contribute to the problem. Preventive strategies include staying hydrated, ensuring adequate mineral intake, and choosing supportive footwear. However, if foot cramps become frequent or painful, it’s important to seek medical help from a podiarist. If you frequently experience foot cramps, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with this type of healcare professional for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our doctors from New England 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 our offices located in Wakefield, MA, Nashua and Derry, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Finding the right shoe fit is vital for comfort and foot health. Begin by ensuring there is adequate room for your toes, as they should be able to wiggle freely without pressing against the shoe’s front. The sides of the shoe should hug your feet snugly without causing pinching or gaps. Proper heel fit is also essential, and the heel should stay securely in place without slipping or rubbing. Consider factors such as foot arch, width, and any specific foot conditions that might influence shoe size. Remember that feet can swell throughout the day, so try shoes later in the day for the best fit. Properly fitted shoes reduce the risk of blisters, calluses, and other foot issues, ensuring both comfort and support. If you have developed a foot condition as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can treat your foot ailment, and guide you in proper shoe fitting.

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our doctors from New England Foot & Ankle . Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

• Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
• Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
• Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
• Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
• Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Wakefield, MA, Nashua and Derry, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.