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When Do Diabetic Patients Need Ankle Foot Orthotics Instead of Shoes

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Foot care plays a critical role in diabetes management, as long-term high blood sugar levels can affect nerves, circulation, and foot structure. Many diabetic patients rely on specialized footwear to protect their feet, but shoes alone may not always provide sufficient support. In certain situations, ankle foot orthotics offer better stability, pressure redistribution, and protection. Understanding when orthotics are needed helps prevent ulcers, infections, and long-term mobility problems. Common Foot Issues Faced by Diabetic Patients Diabetic patients commonly experience neuropathy, reduced blood flow, and altered foot mechanics. These changes increase the risk of calluses , ulcers, foot deformities, and balance issues. Loss of sensation often allows minor injuries to go unnoticed, leading to worsening wounds. Recurrent ulcers and pressure points are common signs that basic footwear may no longer be enough. In such cases, diabetic foot orthotics play an important role in preve...

A Complete Guide to Bone Infection (Osteomyelitis) in Diabetic Foot

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 Diabetes significantly increases the risk of foot-related complications, particularly infections that may extend beyond the skin and soft tissues. One of the most serious conditions is Osteomyelitis in Diabetic Foot , a deep bone infection that often develops from long-standing ulcers. A bone infection in diabetic foot can be difficult to treat and may lead to limb-threatening outcomes if not addressed early. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for timely intervention and foot preservation. How Bone Infection Occurs in Diabetic Feet Bone infection usually develops when bacteria from an open ulcer penetrate deeper tissues and reach the bone. In patients with Diabetic foot infection , poor circulation and nerve damage slow healing and reduce pain sensation, allowing wounds to worsen unnoticed. Repeated pressure, trauma, or inadequate wound care further increases the risk of infection spreading to bone, especially in chronic or neglected ulcer...

Infected Diabetic Foot Ulcers: When Surgery Is Needed and How It Can Save Your Foot

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Diabetic foot ulcers are a serious complication of diabetes, and when infection develops, the condition can worsen rapidly. An Infected Diabetic Foot poses a high risk of deep tissue damage, bone infection, and even limb loss if not treated in time. While early ulcers may respond to medications and wound care, advanced infections often require surgical intervention. Understanding when surgery is necessary and how it helps can make a critical difference in saving the foot. What Makes a Diabetic Foot Ulcer Infected? An ulcer becomes infected when bacteria enter the wound and multiply, overwhelming the body’s defenses. Diabetic foot ulcer infection is more likely due to reduced immunity, nerve damage, and poor blood circulation. Loss of sensation often delays detection, allowing infection to spread unnoticed. Common signs of an infected diabetic foot ulcer include redness, swelling, warmth, pus discharge, foul smell, increasing pain, and fever. If not addressed promptly, infection can ...

Exercise for Diabetic Foot: When & Why It Matters

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Diabetes can quietly affect foot health, often leading to reduced sensation, poor circulation, and delayed healing. These changes increase the risk of infections, ulcers, and long-term mobility issues. Along with medical care and regular monitoring, exercise for diabetic foot plays a vital role in maintaining foot strength, improving circulation, and preventing complications. When done correctly, exercise becomes a safe and effective tool for long-term diabetic foot management. Understanding Diabetic Foot Complications Diabetic foot complications mainly develop due to nerve damage and reduced blood flow. Neuropathy can cause numbness, making it difficult to notice injuries, while poor circulation slows healing. Over time, untreated issues may progress to ulcers, infections, or deformities. This is why consistent monitoring and proper foot care for diabetic patient are essential. Early intervention, combined with physical activity, helps reduce the severity and frequency of foot-rela...

10 Tips to Treat Swollen Feet from Diabetes

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Swelling in the feet is one of the most common complaints among people living with diabetes. It may start as mild puffiness but can slowly affect daily movement and comfort. If not managed early, it can lead to complications. This makes understanding how to care for diabetes swollen feet extremely important. Here are 10 simple, practical tips to help reduce swelling and protect long-term foot health. 1. Elevate Your Feet Regularly Raising your feet above heart level helps reduce diabetic feet swelling by improving blood flow. Even 15–20 minutes of elevation a few times a day can make a visible difference. 2. Stay Physically Active Gentle activity such as walking improves circulation and reduces stiffness. It also prevents diabetes swollen legs from getting worse. Always start with slow movements and avoid long periods of sitting. 3. Keep Your Blood Sugar in Control High sugar levels can damage nerves and blood vessels, which increases diabetes leg swelling . Good sugar control reduc...

Tenotomy: Procedure, What It Is & Why It's Used

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  Foot problems can make everyday activities difficult, especially for people with diabetes or long-standing foot deformities. One treatment that offers relief in such cases is the tenotomy procedure . It is a simple and effective way to release tight tendons that pull the toes or foot into abnormal positions. Understanding how it works can help patients make informed decisions about their care. What Is a Tenotomy? A tenotomy is a small procedure where a tight tendon is gently released to improve movement and reduce pressure on the foot. This is why many people refer to it as tendon release surgery . When a tendon becomes too tight, it can cause the toes to bend, lift, or rub against footwear. Over time, this leads to pain, corns, calluses, and even ulcers. A surgical tenotomy helps correct these issues by relaxing the tendon so the toe or foot can return to a more natural position. It is commonly advised for people who face repeated wounds or pressure spots on their feet. Why Is ...