Impact Podiatry PLLC

It's diabetes awareness month. We support our patients as best we can, which includes watching out for diabetes distress. Diabetes distress is the emotional strain tied to the daily challenges of managing diabetes, such as constant blood sugar monitoring, diet adherence, and fears of complications. This can lead to feelings of frustration, burnout, and a sense of helplessness. Coping strategies include finding support through a therapist or diabetes-focused community, setting manageable goals, and practicing self-compassion to reduce guilt over setbacks. It's important to voice concerns with your medical providers so that we can offer better support and fight diabetes together.

You've heard of carpal tunnel syndrome... but what about tarsal tunnel? Compression of the tibial nerve in the area of the tarsal tunnel can lead to a pain syndrome. This natural tunnel is a pathway for nerves, blood vessels, and tendons to pass from the ankle into the foot. When the tibial nerve is compressed, it can lead to pain, numbness, tingling, or burning sensations along the inside of the ankle and foot, especially in the arch and heel. Treatment options for tarsal tunnel syndrome range from conservative approaches like rest, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and orthotics, to more invasive options like corticosteroid injections or surgery.

We're talking about Benfotiamine more to our patients. Benfotiamine is a fat-soluble derivative of vitamin B1 (thiamine), known for its enhanced ability to cross cell membranes. It is commonly used to manage diabetic neuropathy by reducing the formation of harmful substances called advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which contribute to nerve damage and other issues related to high blood sugar. Benfotiamine also offers potential antioxidant benefits, helping to lower oxidative stress, which plays a role in many chronic diseases. In addition to its use in diabetes, benfotiamine is explored for its cognitive support, with some studies suggesting benefits in conditions like Alzheimer's disease and dementia. It is also helpful for restoring thiamine levels in alcohol-related deficiencies, such as Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome.

Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries but can lead to or are concomitant with several conditions such as: - Chronic Ankle Instability (CAI) - Post-Traumatic Osteoarthritis - Peroneal Tendon Dysfunction - Peroneal Nerve Entrapment - Impingement Syndrome - Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus - Scar Tissue Formation and Adhesions - Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) These conditions underscore the importance of proper evaluation and management of ankle sprains to avoid long-term complications.

As podiatrists, sometimes we are the first to inform patients about how their flat feet (especially in younger children) or frequent ankle sprains are due to ligament laxity. Ligamentous laxity refers to an abnormal increased flexibility in the ligaments, which are the connective tissues that stabilize joints. This condition can lead to joint instability, increased range of motion, and a higher risk of dislocations or injuries. It may be congenital (present from birth) or acquired due to trauma, overuse, or certain medical conditions such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. If left untreated, it may lead to injuries, muscle weakness and fatigue, and early osteoarthritis.

Fat pad atrophy in the feet is a common issue among seniors, where the natural cushioning in the heels and balls of the feet thins over time. This condition leads to increased pain and tenderness, particularly when walking or standing. The loss of these protective fat pads can make everyday activities more challenging, as the bones and joints become more vulnerable to pressure and impact. Seniors with this condition often experience discomfort, callus formation, and a heightened risk of developing ulcers. Dr Scholl's gel inserts are particularly useful in this population but custom inserts and shoes may work even better.

Hammertoes are deformities of the toes where the toe becomes bent at the middle joint . This condition arises when there's an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally keep the toe straight. Contributing factors include foot type, shoe gear, trauma, or underlying health conditions like arthritis. Symptoms often encompass pain or irritation while wearing shoes, corns or calluses on the toe, inflammation, redness, and limited toe movement. Treatment for hammertoes varies based on the severity of the condition. For mild cases, non-surgical interventions such as proper padding and shoe gear may be effective. In more severe instances where the toe becomes rigid and non-responsive to conservative treatments, surgical correction might be recommended to realign the toe structure.

In the foot, two pea-sized bones called sesamoids are located under the first metatarsophalangeal joint (the big toe joint). They function to absorb shock, distribute weight, and support the joint and tendons in their movement. They can be a source of pain, often times becoming inflamed or even fractured.

All surgeries can be categorized based on their purpose. These include: - Diagnostic Surgery: Performed to diagnose a condition, such as biopsy of a mass. - Curative Surgery: Aimed at treating a condition, like removing a tumor. - Cosmetic Surgery: Performed to enhance appearance, such as removal a bunion - Reconstructive Surgery: Aims to restore function or appearance after trauma or illness, like joint fusion or fracture repair - Palliative Surgery: Performed to alleviate symptoms without curing the underlying disease, often used in cancer treatment. It's always important to clarify with the surgeon the goals of any surgery.

The first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint is crucial for weight distribution, balance, and propulsion during walking and running. It enables essential movements such as flexion and extension of the big toe, contributing to proper gait and stability. Issues with this joint, such as arthritis or deformities (ex: bunions), can significantly impact mobility and quality of life.