For someone living with diabetes, the feet are especially vulnerable to problems that can escalate quickly. Reduced sensation from nerve damage can make it hard to notice cuts, blisters, or pressure spots, while changes in circulation can slow healing. A podiatrist would stress the importance of regular professional exams to detect issues before they become serious. They can identify subtle skin changes, monitor nail health, and check for early signs of infection or ulcers. Ongoing care might include trimming nails to avoid injury, fitting shoes that reduce pressure points, and treating corns or calluses safely. Education is also part of the visit, with guidance on recognizing warning signs like redness, swelling, or drainage. If you have diabetes and have even minor concerns about the health of your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for prompt care to reduce the risk of complications that can impact overall mobility and quality of life.

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 Carrie Frame, DPM from West Virginia Foot & Ankle. Our doctor 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 office located in Charleston, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ingrown toenails are a common and often painful condition where the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin. This can lead to redness, swelling, tenderness, and sometimes infection. Patients may notice warmth, drainage, or even pus around the affected area. Walking or wearing shoes may become uncomfortable or difficult. Common causes include improper nail trimming, tight-fitting shoes, or a naturally curved nail shape. While some cases can be managed at home, persistent or infected ingrown toenails require professional care. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition through a physical exam and determine the best course of treatment. Options may include lifting the nail, partial nail removal, or in recurring cases, removing part of the nail root to prevent regrowth. Proper care and hygiene guidance will also be provided to prevent future issues. If you are experiencing pain, swelling, or signs of infection around a toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and care.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Carrie Frame, DPM of West Virginia Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

A bunion forms when the joint at the base of the big toe gradually shifts, creating a bony bump that can become sore, inflamed, and irritated by footwear. Podiatrists evaluate the degree of the deformity and tailor care to relieve discomfort and prevent it from worsening. Supportive shoes with ample toe space, cushioning to reduce rubbing, and custom orthotic inserts can help improve foot mechanics. Cold therapy and anti-inflammatory treatments may ease swelling and tenderness. In cases where pain limits activity or the bunion continues to progress, surgery may be recommended to realign the joint. Addressing the problem early often makes it easier to manage and helps maintain comfortable movement. If you have persistent pain or difficulty wearing shoes due to a bunion, it is suggested you arrange an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management tips.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Carrie Frame, DPM of West Virginia Foot & Ankle. Our doctor 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 our office located in Charleston, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that causes nerve damage, frequently affecting the feet. It often occurs in people with diabetes due to high blood sugar levels, which can damage both nerves and the small blood vessels that supply them. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include burning, tingling, numbness, pain, and weakness in the feet, with these sensations often intensifying at night. Peripheral neuropathy can lead to difficulty walking, loss of balance, and a reduced ability to sense pain or temperature in the feet. As feeling diminishes, there is a higher risk of unnoticed injuries that could develop into foot ulcers or become infected. A podiatrist can help manage these issues by conducting a thorough foot exam, checking sensation, and suggesting treatment options. If you are experiencing symptoms of neuropathy in the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for relief and treatment solutions.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Carrie Frame, DPM from West Virginia Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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