Diabetes can affect the health of your feet in ways that are easy to miss. High blood sugar can damage nerves, reducing the ability to feel pain, heat, or injuries. It can also reduce blood flow, making cuts, blisters, and other wounds heal more slowly. Even a small problem can become serious when it goes unnoticed. A podiatrist can check for changes that patients might not see or feel. Regular foot exams help find concerns before they become harder to treat. A podiatrist also checks for changes in skin, nails, and circulation. These visits play an important role in protecting foot health and lowering the risk of serious complications.

Good diabetic foot care starts with regular attention to your feet. A podiatrist examines the skin for sores, cracks, and signs of infection. They also look for corns, calluses, and ingrown toenails that can create pressure and increase the risk of wounds. During an exam, a podiatrist tests feeling in the feet to check for nerve damage. They also evaluate blood flow, because healthy circulation supports healing. Patients benefit from wearing clean socks and shoes that fit well. Shoes that lack proper support or fit too tightly can increase pressure and raise the risk of injury while walking.

Routine visits with a podiatrist allow small problems to be treated before they become serious. Professional nail care helps lower the chance of cuts or broken skin. A podiatrist can also remove thick calluses safely and recommend custom orthotics that reduce pressure on sensitive areas. They explain warning signs that deserve prompt medical attention. Included are redness, swelling, or drainage from a wound. Regular examinations also help track changes in foot health from year to year. If you have foot problems related to diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage 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 Jennifer M. Kern, DPM from South Carolina. 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 office located in West Columbia, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Color changes in the feet, such as redness, blue tones, or pale patches, can be an early indicator of autonomic involvement in systemic sclerosis, a rare autoimmune disorder. Systemic sclerosis affects blood flow by tightening blood vessels and altering circulation, which can cause noticeable color shifts in response to temperature or stress. Feet may appear blue due to reduced oxygen, red with increased blood flow, or pale when circulation is restricted. These color changes may also come with symptoms like numbness, tingling, or sensitivity to cold, signaling an underlying problem with the autonomic nervous system, which regulates involuntary functions, including blood vessel dilation. If you have this condition and it affects your feet, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist to manage symptoms and prevent complications. These foot specialists can assess circulation, suggest protective strategies for temperature changes, and work with other specialists to ensure proper blood flow and nerve function, ultimately helping to maintain foot health.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Jennifer M. Kern, DPM of South Carolina. 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 office located in West Columbia, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Osteoarthritis of the ankle is a degenerative joint condition that occurs when the protective cartilage within the ankle joint gradually wears down. This leads to bone-on-bone contact, resulting in pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Unlike other joints, ankle osteoarthritis is often linked to prior injury rather than age alone. Ankle trauma, including fractures and sprains, can disrupt joint alignment and increase the risk of long-term damage. Understanding the definition and causes of ankle osteoarthritis can help individuals recognize early signs and seek proper care.

Symptoms of osteoarthritis in the ankle include persistent pain, swelling, stiffness, and limited range of motion. These symptoms may worsen with activity and improve with rest, but discomfort can become more constant. Individuals may also experience a grinding sensation within the joint or difficulty walking on uneven surfaces. These changes can affect daily activities and reduce overall quality of life if left untreated. Early identification of symptoms is important for managing progression.

Risk factors for ankle osteoarthritis often involve a history of injury. Ankle sprains, which are among the most common athletic injuries, can weaken ligaments and lead to joint instability. Repeated trauma or improper healing can accelerate cartilage breakdown. Additional risk factors include high-impact sports, excess body weight, and poor joint alignment. These factors place increased stress on the ankle and contribute to gradual joint degeneration. Recognizing these risks allow for better prevention strategies.

Managing ankle osteoarthritis involves reducing stress on the joint and maintaining mobility through supportive care. Wearing stable footwear, engaging in low-impact exercise, and addressing previous injuries can help protect the ankle. Early treatment can slow progression and improve comfort. If you have symptoms of osteoarthritis in your ankles, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions. 

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Jennifer M. Kern, DPM from South Carolina. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

In-toeing and out-toeing are common foot and lower-limb alignment conditions that affect the way a child’s feet point while walking or standing. In-toeing occurs when the feet turn inward, while out-toeing occurs when the feet point outward. These conditions are often noticed when children begin walking and may change as the bones and muscles develop. Understanding the definition and causes of in-toeing and out-toeing can help parents recognize normal development patterns and identify when professional evaluation may be needed.

Signs of in-toeing include toes pointing inward, frequent tripping, or an uneven walking pattern. Out-toeing may appear as feet turning outward while walking, standing, or running. Some children may have difficulty with balance or coordination, although many cases improve naturally with growth. Risk factors include family history, differences in bone development, muscle tightness, and positioning during early growth. The alignment of the hips, knees, and feet can all influence how a child walks and moves.

The causes of in-toeing and out-toeing vary depending on the child’s stage of development. In-toeing may result from curved foot structure, inward rotation of the shin bone, or inward positioning of the thigh bone. Out-toeing may develop from outward rotation of the hip, leg alignment differences, or foot positioning issues. These conditions are not always caused by footwear or walking habits, but certain structural factors can influence how the feet align.

Early observation and regular monitoring can help ensure healthy foot development. Supportive footwear, proper movement habits, and professional guidance may be recommended depending on the severity of the condition. Most children improve as they grow, but some cases may require treatment to support proper alignment and function. If your child shows signs of in-toeing or out-toeing, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective treatment and management solutions. 

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Jennifer M. Kern, DPM of South Carolina. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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