For individuals living with diabetes, taking proper care of the feet is vital to avoid serious complications. Research shows that people who believe in their ability to manage their health are more likely to perform regular foot care tasks. This includes checking the feet daily, keeping them clean and dry, wearing protective footwear, and seeking help when changes occur. When a person feels confident in their skills and knowledge, they are more likely to stay consistent with these routines. On the other hand, low confidence may lead to neglect or delay in care, increasing the risk of ulcers, infections, or long-term damage. Encouragement, education, and support can help build confidence and improve outcomes over time. If you are managing diabetes and need help developing a foot care routine, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you with 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 Yvonne Umezurike, DPM from Umez Podiatry. 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 offices located in Baltimore, MD and Washington DC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Tinea pedis, commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet. It is caused by dermatophyte fungi, which thrive in warm, moist environments like locker rooms, sweaty shoes, and public showers. The condition is highly contagious and spreads through direct contact or by touching contaminated surfaces. Symptoms include itching, burning, peeling, and cracked skin, especially between the toes or on the soles of the feet. In more severe cases, redness, scaling, and blistering may occur. The infected area can feel painful or uncomfortable, especially when walking. A podiatrist can diagnose tinea pedis by examining the site and may take a skin scraping for lab analysis. Treatment typically involves topical antifungal creams or oral medications for more persistent cases. If you are dealing with this condition, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Yvonne Umezurike, DPM from Umez Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

Persistent toe discomfort can make even simple movements difficult. Wearing tight shoes, repetitive pressure, or underlying joint issues often lead to pain, swelling, or stiffness in the toes. Gently stretching the feet and choosing footwear with enough room for your toes can reduce irritation. Padding or silicone toe separators may ease friction and support natural alignment. Conditions such as hammertoes, arthritis, or nerve irritation may also be involved and require more specific care. Early attention helps prevent worsening of symptoms. If pain does not improve or begins to affect how you walk, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a complete evaluation and personalized treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Yvonne Umezurike, DPM of Umez Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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