A foot infection can begin when bacteria or fungi enter a break in the skin or settle in a damp area. Cuts, blisters, and ingrown toenails can open the door to germs. Fungi can also grow between the toes or beneath a toenail. Shoes and socks can hold moisture against the skin, which supports fungal growth. At the same time, walking barefoot can expose the feet to sharp objects and dirty surfaces. An infection on the foot should receive prompt attention because it can spread into deeper tissue and make standing or walking painful.

Warning signs include redness, warmth, and swelling near the affected area. The skin may feel tender, produce yellow or green drainage, or give off a bad smell. Some infections cause cracked or peeling skin. Others make a toenail thick, discolored, or crumbly. Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that usually develops between the toes. Cellulitis is a bacterial infection in deeper layers of skin and needs immediate medical care. Patients with diabetes face added risk because reduced feeling can hide an injury. Poor blood flow can also slow healing and allow an infection to become serious.

A podiatrist can examine the foot, identify the source of the infection, and determine how far it has spread. The exam may include taking a skin or nail sample to find the cause. The podiatrist can also clean a wound, drain an infected area, or remove damaged tissue. An infected ingrown toenail may require part of the nail to be removed. Severe cases can require surgery to control the infection and protect healthy tissue. Early diagnosis gives treatment a chance to work before complications develop. People with diabetes, poor circulation, or reduced feeling in their feet should seek care promptly when they notice a wound or skin change. If you have a foot infection, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Dr. Eddy Caldwell from Foot Care of Northeast Arkansas, P.A.. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Jonesboro, AR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toenail fungus is an infection that develops beneath the toenail and can affect people of any age. Older adults have a higher risk of developing it. The infection can begin under the tip of a toenail and gradually spread across the nail. Signs include discoloration, thickening, and brittleness. The edge of the nail can also begin to crumble. Different types of fungi can cause the infection. Toenail fungus can spread to the skin between the toes, where it can lead to athlete’s foot.

Certain health conditions can make toenail fungus more concerning. Diabetes or a weakened immune system can increase the risk of complications because the body has more difficulty fighting infection. An untreated fungal infection can spread beyond the toenails to other areas of the body. It can also permanently damage the affected nail. Toenail fungus can be difficult to eliminate and can return after treatment. Delaying care can make the infection harder to treat. For this reason, changes in nail color, texture, or thickness deserve attention before the problem becomes more severe.

A podiatrist can examine an affected toenail and determine whether fungus is responsible for the changes. This is important because other nail problems can resemble a fungal infection. Treatment depends on the severity of the infection and the patient’s health. A podiatrist can recommend appropriate antifungal treatment and monitor how the nail responds. In severe or painful cases, treatment can involve removing part or all of the affected nail. Because toenails grow slowly, visible improvement can take several months. Prompt treatment can also help reduce the chance that the infection will spread or cause lasting nail damage. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Eddy Caldwell of Foot Care of Northeast Arkansas, P.A.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Jonesboro, AR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A diabetic foot exam is a specialized evaluation that helps identify foot problems associated with diabetes. This disease can affect nerves and blood vessels, which may reduce sensation and circulation in the feet. These changes can make it harder to notice an injury and may slow the healing process. A diabetic foot exam allows a podiatrist to look for concerns before they become more serious. Even people who feel that their feet are healthy can benefit from routine screening because some diabetic foot complications develop gradually without obvious warning signs.

During an examination, the podiatrist checks several aspects of foot health. Sensation may be tested to determine whether diabetic neuropathy has affected the nerves. Circulation is assessed by checking pulses and looking for changes that could indicate reduced blood flow. The skin is inspected for cracks, blisters, and open wounds. The podiatrist may also examine toenails, foot shape, and walking mechanics. These findings can reveal problems that may otherwise go unnoticed during normal daily activities.

Diabetes increases the risk of several foot complications. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy may cause numbness, tingling, or reduced ability to feel pain. Poor circulation can affect the delivery of oxygen and nutrients needed for healthy tissue and wound healing. Foot deformities can create pressure points that lead to calluses and ulcers. Previous ulcers, long-term diabetes, and a history of nerve or circulation problems can further increase risk. A podiatrist can identify these concerns and recommend preventive measures based on the patient’s needs.

Regular diabetic foot exams can support early detection and help reduce the chance of preventable complications. If an abnormality is found, treatment may include wound care, pressure relief, or other measures designed to protect the feet. If you have 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 Dr. Eddy Caldwell from Foot Care of Northeast Arkansas, P.A.. 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 Jonesboro, AR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic condition that affects how the body regulates blood sugar levels. Elevated glucose can damage nerves and blood vessels, leading to complications throughout the body. One of the most serious complications is diabetic foot, a term used to describe a range of foot problems including ulcers, infections, and structural deformities. Reduced circulation and nerve damage make the feet especially vulnerable, which is why early awareness and preventive care are essential to foot health.

Symptoms of diabetic foot often begin with numbness, tingling, or burning sensations due to peripheral nerve damage. Patients may also notice dry skin, changes in foot shape, or slow healing wounds. Areas of redness and pressure may also develop. Risk factors include long-standing diabetes, poor blood sugar control, obesity, and wearing improper footwear. Causes of diabetic foot complications are linked to neuropathy, which reduces sensation and peripheral artery disease, which limits blood flow. Together, these issues increase the risk of unnoticed injuries that can develop into serious infections.

Orthotics can play a vital role in protecting the diabetic foot by reducing pressure and improving overall foot mechanics. Custom or supportive orthotics help distribute weight evenly, minimizing stress on high risk areas like the heel and forefoot. They also provide cushioning and stability, which can prevent skin breakdown and reduce the risk of ulcer formation. By enhancing alignment and supporting the arch, orthotics contribute to safer and more efficient walking patterns for individuals with diabetes.

Proper foot care is essential for preventing complications and maintaining mobility in individuals with diabetes. Daily inspection, wearing supportive footwear, and regular podiatric evaluations are key components of care. If you have diabetic foot and want to know if orthotics can help, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions, which may include custom made orthotics.

Our feet carry us through every part of life, absorbing the impact of thousands of steps each day. When they are not properly supported, the effects can extend far beyond the feet themselves. Custom orthotics provide the foundation the body needs by aligning, cushioning, and stabilizing each foot in its most natural position. They are carefully crafted to match the unique structure of each individual’s feet, allowing them to move efficiently and comfortably while reducing stress on the muscles, joints, and ligaments.

Proper foot support is essential for maintaining balance and preventing fatigue. Without it, the body compensates by shifting weight unevenly, which can lead to discomfort in the ankles, knees, hips, or lower back. Custom orthotics help restore this balance by redistributing pressure and promoting a more natural walking pattern. They not only ease existing pain but also protect against future strain or injury by supporting the arches and controlling excessive motion.

Unlike store-bought insoles, custom orthotics are created through detailed assessment and advanced technology to provide precise correction and comfort. They fit seamlessly into most shoes, making them ideal for daily wear, work, or sports.

If your feet feel tired, sore, or unsupported, it is recommended that you contact our office for more information, or to make an appointment.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Jonesboro, AR .