NSMC Podiatric physicians prevent, diagnose and treat a range of conditions associated with the foot and ankle, including:
arthritic foot problems
bunion deformities
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease
diabetic foot disease
diabetic wound care
flat foot
hammer toe deformities
heel spur syndrome
in-grown toenails
Morton's neuroma
pediatric foot problems
reconstructive foot surgery
rheumatoid foot disease
sports-related foot problems
warts
Reconstructive foot surgery is performed by board-certified NSMC podiatrists who use the latest innovative techniques. We use pulsed dye laser to treat resistant plantar warts, and Extracorporial Shockwave Treatment for recalcitrant plantar fasciitis. NSMC Podiatrists also specialize in all aspects of diabetic foot care, from nail and skin conditions to Charcot and other foot deformities. They employ the latest in wound care techniques to quickly heal diabetic wounds. Sharp debridement, proper off-loading, shoeing through the Medicare Diabetic Shoe Program and the application of state-of-the-art dressings (depending on type of wound and amount of drainage) have helped to quickly heal diabetic wounds. Human platelet-derived growth factors and skin grafts (manufactured in a lab from human skin) are used for the most resistant cases. Fungal nails (onychomycosis) can be successfully treated with prescription topical and/or oral medication along with mechanical debridement. Treatment for heel spur syndrome includes cortisone injections, strappings, NSAIDs, night splints and custom-fabricated orthotics which are best made after performing a full biomechanical exam.
FAQs
What is a bunion? A bunion is a large bony prominence at the base of the great toe along with a drifting of the great toe towards the lesser toes. They are caused by faulty foot mechanics (ie: flat feet and tight heel cords). When conservative care fails, outpatient bunion surgery can be performed to correct the deformity.
What is a Morton’s Neuroma?
A Morton’s Neuroma, or “pinched nerve,” is a benign but painful growth of scar tissue around the nerve between the 3rd and 4th toes (occasionally the 2nd and 3rd toes) causing burning, tingling or numbness between the toes and in the ball of the foot. Neuromas are caused by rubbing of the nerve on the intermetatarsal ligament. Treatment starts with low-dose Cortisone injections. If conservative care fails, two surgical options remain including cutting of the intermetatarsal ligament to decompress the nerve or surgical excision of the scarred nerve.
Why is foot care so important to diabetics?
Diabetes causes decreased sensation (diabetic Peripheral Polyneuropathy) and decreased circulation (Peripheral Arterial Disease) to the feet. Decreased sensation allows minor cuts or abrasions to go undetected eventually leading to more serious complications. Decreased blood flow to the feet inhibits one’s ability to heal open wounds and fight off infections. This combination increases their risk for lower leg amputations.
What is a diabetic foot ulcer?
An ulcer is an open wound or hole in the skin which drains fluid and heals slowly. These wounds are dangerous because germs can easily enter below the skin and cause serious limb-threatening infections.
