Diabetic foot ulcers often progress through stages that reflect increasing levels of tissue damage. In the earliest stage, the skin may appear intact, but deformities or poor circulation place the foot at risk for breakdown. A grade 1 ulcer is a shallow wound that affects only the skin’s outer layers. A grade 2 ulcer involves deeper tissues, such as tendons, ligaments, or joints. By grade 3, the ulcer may spread into the bone, creating a serious health concern. grade 4, involves dead tissue, or gangrene, at the front of the foot, and grade 5 occurs when gangrene extends throughout the entire foot, which can threaten limb preservation. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the diabetic foot ulcer, provide wound care, help improve circulation, and recommend surgery when necessary to reduce the risk of limb loss. If you have diabetes with developing foot ulcers, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and expert guidance in managing this serious condition.

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 Pasquale Cancelliere, DPM from Candria Foot and Ankle Specialists. 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 offices located in Londonderry, NH and Salem, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A lump on the heel is often linked to a condition known as Haglund’s deformity, where a bony prominence develops at the back of the heel bone. This extra bone growth can irritate the Achilles tendon and the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that normally reduces friction. This can lead to swelling, redness, and localized pain. Contributing causes may include tight calf muscles that increase tension on the tendon, genetic factors like high arches that shift the heel bone backward, or footwear with a stiff backs like pumps, ice skates, or high heels that create repeated friction. A podiatrist can perform an exam to determine if the heel lump is related to bone spurs, bursitis, or tendon irritation. Treatment options include stretching exercises, changes in footwear, medication, and surgery, in persistent cases. If you notice the formation of a lump on the heel, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Pasquale Cancelliere, DPM of Candria Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, and usually occurs in three varieties called interdigital, moccasin, and vesicular. Interdigital athlete’s foot typically appears between the toes, causing itching, redness, peeling, and sometimes cracking or bleeding skin. Moccasin athlete’s foot affects the soles and sides of the feet, leading to dry, scaly, and thickened skin. Vesicular athlete’s foot is characterized by small, itchy blisters that may appear on the soles or insteps. Causes include walking barefoot in moist, communal areas, wearing damp socks, and poor foot hygiene. The infection can feel itchy, burning, or uncomfortable, and the affected skin may appear red, flaky, or cracked. A podiatrist can diagnose athlete’s foot through a physical examination and skin scrapings, if needed. Treatment may include antifungal creams, oral medications, and advice on prevention. To address symptoms effectively, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can effectively treat athlete's foot.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Pasquale Cancelliere, DPM from Candria Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

Freiberg infraction is a condition that affects the long bones in the front of the foot, most often the second metatarsal. It happens when the bone under the toe joint loses its normal blood supply, leading to tiny fractures and collapse of the bone surface. This can cause pain in the ball of the foot, swelling, and stiffness in the toe. Walking or wearing tight shoes may make the discomfort worse, and over time, the joint may become stiff or uneven. The condition is more common in teenagers and young adults, especially those who are active in sports, although adults can develop it, as well. Treatment may involve rest, wearing cushioned shoes, orthotics, or targeted exercises  to relieve pressure and improve movement. Severe cases may require surgery. If you have persistent pain in the ball of your foot, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Pasquale Cancelliere, DPM of Candria Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

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