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Foot ulcers often occur when poor circulation, nerve damage, or constant pressure prevents the skin from healing as it should. Individuals with diabetes are especially at risk because reduced feeling in the feet can allow small injuries to worsen without notice. Wearing shoes that do not fit well, having dry or cracked skin, or ignoring minor cuts can all contribute to ulcer development. Once a wound forms, bacteria can easily enter, leading to infection and delayed healing. Treatment involves cleaning the area, removing damaged tissue, and keeping pressure off the wound to encourage repair. A podiatrist may also suggest wearing special footwear or custom orthotics to protect the foot. Regular checkups are important to monitor progress. If a foot sore is slow to heal, it is suggested that you seek professional care from a podiatrist who can offer appropriate care and prevent serious complications.

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 Preston Ringo, DPM from Mid Coast Foot & Ankle. 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 Damariscotta, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Wearing high heels may look stylish, but they can cause serious foot problems over time. High heels shift body weight forward, putting excessive pressure on the toes and the ball of the foot. This unnatural position can lead to bunions, hammertoes, corns, and sometimes nerve pain. Symptoms include aching arches, burning sensations, stiffness, or numbness after wearing heels for long periods. The feet may appear red, misaligned, or swollen, especially near the toes and forefoot. Over time, high heels can also affect posture and contribute to knee, hip, and back pain. A podiatrist can help identify the source of discomfort with a thorough foot evaluation, gait analysis, and imaging if needed. Treatment options include custom orthotics, footwear recommendations, stretching exercises, or in severe cases, corrective procedures. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to protect your feet and find pain-free solutions while maintaining your style.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Preston Ringo, DPM from Mid Coast Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Damariscotta, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle sprains are common injuries that occur when the ligaments in the ankle are stretched or torn, often due to an awkward twist or roll of the foot. Common causes include sports activities, uneven terrain, or walking on unstable surfaces. Symptoms typically include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the ankle. To avoid ankle sprains, it is important to strengthen and stretch the calf muscles and surrounding areas. Regular exercises to improve flexibility and balance can help stabilize the ankle joint and prevent sudden twists. Wearing supportive footwear that fits well and provides adequate arch support is also key in reducing the risk of injury. Additionally, warming up before physical activity and avoiding walking on uneven surfaces can help prevent sprains. A podiatrist can offer personalized advice on strengthening exercises, footwear choices, and other strategies to protect the ankle. If you are dealing with this condition, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Preston Ringo, DPM from Mid Coast Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Damariscotta, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Foot and ankle swelling, also known as edema, can result from a variety of causes. Being overweight increases pressure on the veins and can lead to fluid buildup, while older adults are more prone to it due to reduced circulation. Blood clots in the legs can cause sudden swelling and require immediate attention, and infections in the leg or foot may also lead to localized swelling, redness, and pain. Other contributing factors include prolonged standing, injury, or certain medical conditions. A podiatrist can evaluate the underlying cause through a physical examination and diagnostic testing, provide treatment to reduce swelling, and recommend lifestyle or footwear adjustments to prevent recurrence. If your feet or ankles have become swollen, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Preston Ringo, DPM of Mid Coast Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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