Determining whether to pursue limb salvage or amputation for problematic diabetic feet is a critical decision that involves careful evaluation of several factors. Podiatrists assess the severity of the foot condition, considering factors such as the extent of infection, blood flow, and the overall health of the patient. Imaging tests may be conducted to understand the degree of damage and the presence of viable tissue. In cases where blood circulation is sufficient and the infection is manageable, limb salvage techniques, including surgery and advanced wound care, may be preferred to preserve the foot. If you have diabetes and your feet are severely affected, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can discuss effective limb salvage methods.

Limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have diabetes, cancer, or any other condition that could lead to foot amputation if left unchecked, consult with one of our podiatrists from North Eastern Ohio Podiatry Group LLC. our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Limb Salvage?

Limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.

However, there are other causes as well, such as cancer and traumatic injury. Links between higher mortality rates and amputation have been found. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated. 

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

Ankle fractures are common injuries that can occur due to trauma or falls, often requiring careful assessment for effective treatment. The Ottawa rules are clinical guidelines that help determine the need for X-rays in suspected ankle injuries, focusing on pain in specific areas and the ability to bear weight. Ankle fractures can be classified using the Danis-Weber system, which categorizes them based on the location of the fibula fracture relative to the joint that stabilizes the bones. The Lauge-Hansen classification further describes the mechanism of injury, aiding in treatment decisions. Common types of fractures include calcaneal fractures, which affect the heel bone, and Chopart fracture-dislocations that involve the midfoot. Stress fractures often result from repetitive activity. If you have incurred an ankle fracture, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can determine which type it is, and offer effective treatment solutions.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from North Eastern Ohio Podiatry Group LLC. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

Trail running can provide a dynamic and challenging workout, but the varied and uneven surfaces increase the risk of foot and ankle injuries. Common issues include plantar fasciitis, sprained ankles, Achilles tendonitis, and stress fractures. Plantar fasciitis results from inflammation of the plantar fascia ligament, which can cause pain in the heel and arch. It is often linked to the repetitive impact of running. Sprained ankles are frequent because of the uneven terrain trail runners encounter. Tripping or stumbling into a hole can lead to overstretched ligaments. Achilles tendonitis occurs from overuse, especially during uphill runs, causing pain in the back of the heel. Stress fractures are small cracks in the bones of the foot that develop from repeated strain, especially on rocky or root-covered trails. A podiatrist can assess and treat such trail running injuries, as well as offer guidance on proper footwear and recovery strategies to prevent further damage. If you have incurred a foot and ankle injury related to trail running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of North Eastern Ohio Podiatry Group LLC. our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Willoughby Hills, Euclid, and Beachwood, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.