March 2025

Non-diabetic foot infections can occur due to cuts, puncture wounds, or fungal infections, leading to pain, swelling, and redness. These infections often cause throbbing or sharp pain, especially when pressure is applied to the affected area. A cut or puncture wound in the foot can allow bacteria to enter, while fungal infections, like athlete's foot, can lead to cracked skin and increased vulnerability to infection. The affected area may become warm to the touch, and you might notice discharge or pus if the infection worsens. If left untreated, the infection can spread, causing more severe pain and complications. A podiatrist can help by thoroughly cleaning the wound, draining any pus, and prescribing antibiotics if necessary. For fungal infections, they may recommend antifungal treatments to clear the infection. This type of doctor will also provide advice on proper foot care to prevent future infections. If you have this type of infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate 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 Ahmad Elsamad, DPM from The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Merrillville, and Munster, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, and for athletes, it can be a game-changer. This condition occurs when the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed from overuse, excessive impact, or improper biomechanics. Runners, basketball players, and dancers are especially prone due to repetitive foot stress. Sharp, stabbing pain is often worse in the morning or after long periods of activity. Ignoring it can lead to chronic discomfort and even compensatory injuries in the knees or hips. Treatment includes rest, stretching, wearing proper footwear, and sometimes custom orthotics to provide arch support. If you are an athlete eager to stay in the game, it is suggested that you seek care from a podiatrist.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Ahmad Elsamad, DPM from The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

Foot neuropathy is a common complication for those with high blood glucose levels, often linked to diabetes. High blood sugar can damage the nerves in your feet, leading to symptoms like tingling, numbness, burning sensations, or sharp pains. Some people may also experience weakness or loss of feeling, making it difficult to notice injuries or infections. Over time, this damage can worsen, potentially leading to balance problems or ulcers that may go unnoticed. A podiatrist can diagnose foot neuropathy through a physical examination and sensory testing. Treatment includes custom insoles to relieve pressure, medication to manage pain, or targeted exercises to improve mobility and strength. In some cases, they may recommend lifestyle changes to help control blood sugar levels. Proper foot care is critical to prevent further complications, as untreated neuropathy can lead to more severe issues. If you have foot neuropathy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for expert care and guidance.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Ahmad Elsamad, DPM from The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

Charcot foot is a serious condition that affects the bones, joints, and soft tissues of the foot and ankle. It is most common in people with diabetes who have peripheral neuropathy. Charcot foot leads to inflammation that weakens the bones, making them more prone to fractures and dislocations. Because neuropathy reduces sensation, people may continue walking on an injured foot without realizing the extent of the damage. Over time, this can cause severe deformities, such as a collapsed arch, known as a rocker-bottom foot. Symptoms often include swelling, warmth, redness, and changes in foot shape. Without proper treatment, Charcot foot can increase the risk of wounds and infection, which may lead to limb loss. A podiatrist can assess the condition using imaging studies and clinical evaluations. Treatment typically involves immobilization with a cast or brace to prevent further damage. In more severe cases, surgery may be needed to restore foot stability and function. If you believe you have symptoms of Charcot foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Ahmad Elsamad, DPM of The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

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