Wounds on the feet or ankles that heal slowly often result from underlying medical conditions that affect blood flow, nerve function, or immune response. Poor circulation, including peripheral artery disease or venous insufficiency, limits the supply of oxygen and nutrients to foot tissues, making it harder for wounds to close. Diabetes is another leading cause of slow-healing wounds, as prolonged high blood sugar can damage blood vessels and nerves, reducing both pain sensation and healing ability. Mechanical pressure from wearing ill-fitting shoes or prolonged immobility can also lead to sores that are slow to heal. A weakened immune system along with advancing age may further increase the risk. Chronic wounds can become infected and lead to complications, including the possibility of limb loss, if untreated. If you notice a foot or lower leg wound that is not healing properly, it is suggested that you schedule an immediate appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment plan.
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 one of our podiatrists from Lexington Foot and Ankle Center, PSC. Our doctors 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.
Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.
Your feet have carried you through countless steps, and regular exercise can help keep them strong, stable, and pain-free. Gentle movement improves circulation, which is especially important as blood flow naturally slows with age. Stretching and strengthening exercises can ease stiffness, support balance, and reduce the risk of falls. Simple actions such as flexing the toes, rolling the ankles, or standing on one foot for a few seconds each day can make a meaningful difference. These small efforts help maintain joint mobility, muscle tone, and flexibility. When the feet stay active, they are better equipped to support your daily life, whether walking across a room or around the block. If you notice cramping, weakness, or changes in how your feet feel during movement, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist for expert guidance.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Lexington Foot and Ankle Center, PSC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Exercise for Your Feet
Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.
Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctors to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual.
Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Harrodsburg, Frankfort, Georgetown, and Lexington, KY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Pregnancy can bring significant changes to the feet and ankles due to hormonal shifts and increased body weight. Many women notice an increase in shoe size as the ligaments relax and the arch flattens. Swelling and fluid retention are also common, especially in the ankles. Some women may experience redness and itching of the soles, often caused by elevated estrogen levels. These symptoms can lead to discomfort and difficulty walking. A podiatrist can provide supportive care through custom orthotics, guidance on proper footwear, and treatments to relieve irritation and swelling. If you are experiencing foot or ankle issues during pregnancy, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions returning comfort, mobility, and support throughout this important stage.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Lexington Foot and Ankle Center, PSC. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
Wear shoes with good arch support
Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
Elevate feet if you experience swelling
Massage your feet
Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Harrodsburg, Frankfort, Georgetown, and Lexington, KY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
