Black toenails in individuals with diabetes can result from several underlying causes, often indicating more serious health concerns. Peripheral arterial disease may lead to poor circulation, reducing blood flow to the toes and causing tissue damage or discoloration. Neuropathy, or nerve damage, may reduce sensation, making individuals unaware of injuries or pressure that can lead to bruising or infections. Fungal infections are also common in diabetics and can cause thickened, discolored, or darkened nails. Trauma, even minor, may go unnoticed due to decreased sensation and lead to bleeding under the nail. Monitoring foot health is vital in diabetic patients, as black toenails may signal complications that require prompt medical attention. If  you have diabetes and have developed black toenails, it is suggested that you see a chiropodist as soon as possible for help in managing this serious condition.

Diabetes can cause serious problems in the lower limbs if proper preventive measures are not taken and diabetic wound care is not performed. If you would like to learn more about caring for diabetic feet, please consult with Paul A. Scotti, D.Ch from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Diabetes can lead to a host of foot and ankle complications, including: 

• Poor circulation

• Peripheral neuropathy

• Diabetic foot wounds and ulcers

• Infection 

• Corns and calluses

• Dry, cracked skin

• Nail disorders 

• Hammertoes 

• Bunions

• Charcot foot

If you have diabetes, you must be vigilant of any changes in your foot health. This is best done through daily foot inspections. Using a mirror to help you if necessary, look for any: 

• Cuts, scrapes, sores, or wounds

• Bruising or discoloration 

• Swelling

• Rash

• Foul odor

• Nail changes 

• Hair loss 

• Warmth and inflammation

• Deformities 

• Lower limb pain

• Strange sensations (numbness, tingling, burning, pins, and needles)

If you detect anything unusual, seek the care of a chiropodist as soon as possible. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A foot blister is a fluid-filled sac that forms on the skin due to friction, pressure, or irritation. It acts as a protective barrier, cushioning the underlying skin from further damage. Common causes include wearing ill-fitting shoes, excessive moisture from sweat, and prolonged walking or running. Heat and burns can also contribute to blister formation. Most blisters heal on their own, but some may become infected if bacteria enter through a break in the skin. Signs of an infected blister include increased redness, warmth, swelling, and pus drainage. Pain may worsen, and fever can develop in severe cases. Keeping blisters clean, avoiding unnecessary popping, and covering them with a protective bandage help prevent infection. If you have a foot blister that has become infected, it is suggested that you promptly contact a chiropodist who can offer safe and sterile treatment solutions, and guide you on effective prevention methods.

Blisters can usually be treated at home, however, if you have recurring blisters or experience significant discomfort or pain, please consult with Paul A. Scotti, D.Ch from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is a Blister? 

A blister is a small pocket of fluid in the upper skin layers and is one of the body’s natural responses to injury or pressure. Blisters can also result from burns, fungal or viral skin infections, and the feet are particularly prone due to ill-fitting footwear and friction. Friction on the skin causes the upper layer of skin to separate from the lower layers. The space that this separation creates then becomes filled with a liquid called serum, which protects the lower layers of skin. 

Treatment 

If you notice a blister on your foot, you can cover it with a soft bandage or dressing to protect it. Popping the blister is discouraged. Doing so exposes the raw skin underneath it to bacteria and also raises the risk of infection. If a blister pops naturally, let it drain before covering it with a bandage. Blisters usually heal on their own or with home treatment, however, if your blister is recurring, very painful, or appears infected, it is recommended that you see a chiropodist for treatment. 

Prevention

You can help to prevent blisters by wearing comfortable, well-fitted shoes. Keep your feet dry by wearing moisture-wicking socks and dust your feet with talcum powder if they tend to get sweaty. If you have areas on your feet that are more susceptible to blisters, you might be able to prevent the blister from forming by covering it with a pad. 

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

Tendonitis of the foot and ankle occurs when the tendons in these areas become inflamed due to overuse, injury, or strain. This condition can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty with movement. Different types of tendonitis affect specific areas of the foot and ankle. Posterior tendonitis involves the tibialis posterior tendon, which supports the arch and can become strained from excessive activity or flat feet. Medial tendonitis affects the tendons on the inner side of the foot, often due to repetitive stress. Lateral tendonitis impacts the tendons on the outer side of the foot, commonly caused by ankle instability. Additionally, dorsal tendonitis occurs on the top of the foot and may develop from wearing tight footwear or overuse. If you have chronic foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you confer with a chiropodist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle pain is a common symptom of many lower limb problems. If you are experiencing ankle pain, please consult with Paul A. Scotti, D.Ch from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

The ankle is composed of a number of muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments. There are many conditions which may cause ankle pain. 

Causes

• Ankle strains or sprains

• Achilles tendon injuries

• Fractures

• Bursitis

• Arthritis

• Gout

• Tarsal tunnel syndrome

Symptoms

If you have ankle pain, you may also experience a variety of other symptoms depending on the underlying cause of the pain. Some of these symptoms may include ankle swelling, bruising, redness, numbness or tingling, instability, and difficulty walking.

Diagnosis

The underlying cause of ankle pain can be diagnosed by a chiropodist. Diagnoses are typically made based on your medical history, a physical examination of the affected ankle, and imaging studies such as X-rays. 

Treatment

Treatment for your ankle pain will depend on its underlying cause. Often, the chiropodist will recommend that you rest the affected ankle. You might also need to ice, compress, and elevate the ankle, wear an orthotic device, or take medications to reduce pain and inflammation. 

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