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Diabetes can place the feet at risk even before a patient notices a problem. High blood sugar can damage nerves, which can reduce feeling in the toes and soles. It can also narrow blood vessels and limit the oxygen that reaches injured tissue. As a result, a small blister, cut, or pressure spot can go unnoticed and heal poorly. An untreated wound can develop into an ulcer, which is an open sore. Infection can then spread into deeper tissue or bone. In severe cases, these complications can lead to limb loss.

Regular visits to a podiatrist helps find warning signs before they become serious. A podiatrist can inspect the skin, nails, and spaces between the toes. The examination also includes checking blood flow, nerve function, and changes in foot shape. These checks can reveal numbness or pressure points that increase the risk of a wound. A podiatrist can safely trim problem toenails and reduce thick calluses that create pressure. The doctor can also treat ulcers, remove unhealthy tissue, and use dressings to support healing. Signs of poor circulation can lead to further testing or a referral to another specialist.

A podiatrist can recommend properly-fitted shoes, custom orthotics, or protective padding to reduce rubbing and pressure. Patients with a past ulcer, poor circulation, or loss of feeling need closer monitoring. The doctor can set an examination schedule based on a patient’s level of risk. Prompt care is especially important for redness, swelling, or warmth in one foot. Patients should also report drainage, an open sore, or a change in skin color. Fever or increasing pain can signal an infection that requires prompt medical attention. Consistent visits to a podiatrist can protect mobility and help avoid hospital care, serious infection, or loss of limb. If you have foot complications from diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage 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 One of our podiatrists from Taub Podiatry. Our doctors 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 Stuart, Port St. Lucie, and Hobe Sound, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Clubfoot is a birth condition that causes one foot or both feet to turn downward and inward. In some cases, the sole faces backward. The affected foot can also appear smaller than the other foot, and the calf can be thinner. Clubfoot does not usually cause pain in a newborn. Without proper treatment, however, the changed foot position can make standing and walking painful as the child grows. The exact cause is not always known. Family history can raise a baby’s risk, and clubfoot is rarely connected to another health condition.

A podiatrist can examine the baby’s feet, ankles, and legs to confirm the diagnosis. Clubfoot is sometimes seen on an ultrasound before birth, but treatment begins after delivery. Care usually starts within the first two weeks of life. One leading approach is the Ponseti method. A trained specialist gently moves the foot toward a better position and applies a cast to hold it there. This process is repeated for several weeks. The podiatrist can track the foot’s position, check the skin, and explain each stage to the parents.

After casting, many babies require a small procedure to loosen the tight Achilles tendon at the back of the ankle. Special boots connected by a bar then help keep the feet properly aligned. The boots are first used for most of the day. Later, the child generally uses them while sleeping for several years. A podiatrist can monitor growth, adjust the treatment plan, and address signs of relapse. Surgery is reserved for cases that do not respond fully to casting or return despite careful treatment. Most children who receive early care develop stable, pain-free feet. They usually begin walking at the expected age, and can take part in sports and other activities. If your newborn has symptoms of clubfoot, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist on your healthcare team to ensure your child’s full recovery. 

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact One of our podiatrists of Taub Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Stuart, Port St. Lucie, and Hobe Sound, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory condition linked to psoriasis that can affect the joints in the feet and ankles. It causes pain, swelling, and stiffness that can make standing or walking uncomfortable. Some patients have swollen toes that create a sausage-like appearance. Others develop pain where a tendon or ligament attaches to a bone that frequently affects the heel or the bottom of the foot. Changes in foot shape can also develop, making it harder to find shoes that fit comfortably and provide proper support.

Psoriatic arthritis can also affect the toenails. Small dents in the nail surface or nails that lift away from the nail bed are signs that should not be ignored. These changes can appear along with painful joints or develop before joint symptoms become obvious. Swelling in the ankles, feet, or toes can limit movement and reduce balance while walking. Pain in the heel, sole, or toes can interfere with daily activities. Symptoms sometimes come and go, but repeated inflammation can damage joints and reduce normal foot function without proper care. Early attention is important because lasting joint damage can begin before severe pain develops. 

A podiatrist plays an important role in diagnosing and managing psoriatic arthritis affecting the feet. The examination includes checking for joint swelling, changes in foot shape, and nail problems that can be linked to the condition. Imaging studies can show joint damage and help confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options include custom orthotics to improve foot support and reduce pressure on painful areas. A podiatrist also recommends shoes that provide proper support and enough room for swollen or misshapen joints. Regular follow-up visits help track changes in the feet and ankles and allow treatment to be adjusted as symptoms change. If you have symptoms of psoriatic arthritis in the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management tips.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact One of our podiatrists from Taub Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Stuart, Port St. Lucie, and Hobe Sound, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

As people get older, ongoing foot discomfort can make everyday movement more difficult and reduce overall independence. Carrying additional body weight may place greater pressure on the feet, ankles, and joints, which can contribute to soreness, fatigue, and difficulty with walking or standing for extended periods of time. This added strain may gradually affect balance, mobility, and participation in normal daily activities. Some individuals notice aching in the heels, arches, or forefoot, while others experience swelling, instability, or discomfort that limits exercise and social routines. Because the feet support the entire body, even mild pain can have a meaningful effect on quality of life. A podiatrist can evaluate the source of discomfort, assess walking mechanics, and recommend treatments that improve support, reduce strain, and restore comfort during movement. Addressing foot pain early may help preserve mobility and confidence. If foot discomfort is making daily activities more difficult, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for care.

The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact One of our podiatrists from Taub Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.

Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity

• When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
• Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
• Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Stuart, Port St. Lucie, and Hobe Sound, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.