Husein Y. Husein, DPM

09/01/2023

08/28/2023

🦶 Charcot Foot: Understanding and Managing a Complex Condition

Today, I'd like to shed light on Charcot foot, a serious condition that demands our attention.

Signs and Symptoms:
Charcot foot often presents with redness, swelling, and warmth of the affected foot. Patients might experience a loss of sensation, making it challenging to detect pain or discomfort. Deformities, fractures, and ulcers can develop, leading to potential limb-threatening consequences.

Etiology:
The development of Charcot foot is intricately tied to neuropathy, often due to diabetes. This neuropathy weakens the bones and joints, rendering them susceptible to fractures and deformities. Repetitive trauma, sometimes from unnoticed injuries, plays a significant role.

Conservative Treatment:
Early detection is key. Immobilization, offloading with specialized footwear or braces, and strict glycemic control are cornerstones of conservative management. Close monitoring and patient education on foot care are crucial to prevent further complications.

Surgical Treatment:
In cases of severe deformities or when conservative measures prove inadequate, surgical intervention becomes essential. Surgical correction aims to realign the bones and restore stability to the foot. Collaboration between foot specialists and orthopedic surgeons is often necessary for optimal outcomes.

Remember, prompt diagnosis and tailored management are vital in addressing Charcot foot. If you or someone you know is at risk, seek medical attention without delay.

Stay informed, stay proactive.

08/02/2023

Hello dear friends and family,

Let's take a moment to talk about a common issue in individuals with diabetes: painful foot calluses. These thickened areas of skin are your body's way of protecting the skin from pressure and friction. However, in people with diabetes, they can lead to more severe complications.

🔍 Signs and Symptoms:
1️⃣ A hardened, thick area of skin on the foot, usually on the ball, heel, or side of the big toe.
2️⃣ Tenderness or pain under the skin.
3️⃣ Flaky, dry, or waxy skin over the callus.

Complications include the development of foot ulcers, infections, and changes in foot structure if left untreated.

👣Treatment Plans for Painful Calluses in Diabetic Feet:

✅Conservative Management:

Proper Footwear: Shoes should be comfortable, with plenty of room for the toes. Avoid high heels and shoes with thin soles.
Padding and Orthotics: Use non-medicated foot pads or shoe inserts to relieve pressure points.
Use of Emollients: Application of moisturizing creams can help soften calluses.
Regular Foot Checks: Daily inspection of feet can help catch calluses before they become problematic.
✅Surgical Management:
In some severe or recurring cases, a podiatrist might recommend surgery to correct foot deformities that contribute to repeated callus formation.

👩‍⚕️ Debridement: A healthcare provider may safely trim away the thickened skin. Never attempt to do this yourself at home, as it can lead to wounds and infections.

Remember, proper foot care is vital for people with diabetes. It's always wise to consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice. Prevention is key, and together, we can help avoid complications associated with diabetes.

As always, this information is meant to raise awareness and not replace professional medical advice. Let's take the necessary steps towards healthier feet!

👣💙🌐

07/30/2023

🦶 Understanding Bunion Deformity (Hallux Abducto Valgus) 🦶

👉 Etiology:
Bunion deformity, also known as Hallux Abducto Valgus, is a common foot condition that affects the joint at the base of the big toe. It develops when the big toe leans towards the second toe, causing the joint to protrude and form a bony bump. Heredity, tight-fitting shoes, and foot structure can contribute to its development.

🚨 Signs and Symptoms:
Visible bump at the base of the big toe
Swelling, redness, or tenderness around the joint
Pain or discomfort, especially when wearing shoes
Limited movement of the big toe
Corns or calluses may form on the bump or between the toes

🌟 Conservative vs. Surgical Options:

👣 Conservative measures for managing bunion deformity include:

Wearing comfortable, roomy shoes with a wide toe box
Using padding or splints to cushion the affected area
Applying ice to reduce swelling and pain
Taking over-the-counter pain relievers, if recommended by a healthcare professional
Avoiding high heels and pointy-toed shoes

👨‍⚕️ Surgical options may be considered if conservative measures are not effective, and the bunion causes significant pain or limits daily activities. Surgical procedures aim to realign the joint, remove the bony bump, and improve foot function.

🩹 Bracing and Their Benefits:
Bracing can be a valuable addition to the conservative treatment plan for bunion deformity. Bunion braces are designed to provide support, alignment, and pain relief to the affected area. Their benefits include:

Reducing pressure on the bunion, relieving discomfort
Improving toe alignment over time
Preventing further progression of the deformity
Offering comfort and flexibility for daily use
🏃‍♀️ Whether you're experiencing mild discomfort or more severe symptoms, it's essential to consult with a foot specialist to determine the best approach for managing bunion deformity. Remember, early intervention can make a difference in maintaining healthy and happy feet! 💙

07/30/2023

🦵 Understanding Venous Insufficiency in the Lower Extremities

🩸 Etiology:
Venous insufficiency is a condition that occurs when the valves in the leg veins don't function properly, causing blood to pool in the lower extremities. It is often associated with prolonged standing or sitting, obesity, pregnancy, and family history.

🚩 Signs and Symptoms:
Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet
Aching, heaviness, or cramping in the legs
Varicose veins or spider veins
Skin changes, such as redness or discoloration
Itching or a feeling of warmth in the affected areas

🌱 Conservative vs. Surgical Options:
Conservative measures for managing venous insufficiency include lifestyle changes like regular exercise, elevating the legs, avoiding prolonged standing or sitting, and weight management. Compression stockings can also play a vital role in improving symptoms.

🏥 Surgical options may be considered if conservative measures are insufficient or for severe cases. Procedures like vein ligation, vein stripping, or endovenous ablation can help to improve venous circulation and alleviate symptoms.

🧦 Compression Stockings and Their Benefits:
Compression stockings are specialized elastic garments that provide graduated pressure to the legs, helping to improve blood flow and reduce swelling. They are available in different compression levels and can be beneficial in managing venous insufficiency by:
Reducing leg swelling and discomfort
Preventing blood from pooling in the veins
Supporting proper circulation and venous return
Minimizing the risk of skin complications and ulcers

🩺 If you experience symptoms of venous insufficiency, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and personalized treatment options.

JOBST Relief garments are affordable yet high quality products that provides physician-recommended gradient compression. Comfortable and durable, JOBST Relief stockings can be worn day in and day out.

07/29/2023

Thanks to DPM Orthotics for an informative and educational time today!

DPM Orthotics, Inc. would like to welcome you to the DPM Design Center. The Design Center offers our clients an all-in-one resource center for all of your practice's custom foot orthotics. We now offer Electronic Scanning for your practice.

07/28/2023

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07/25/2023

💡👣Health Awareness Post: Diabetic Neuropathy👣💡

Dear friends and family, let's shed some light on Diabetic Neuropathy, a type of nerve damage that can occur with long-standing diabetes, affecting up to 50% of individuals with the condition.

🔍Signs and Symptoms of Diabetic Neuropathy:

1️⃣ Tingling or burning sensation
2️⃣ Sharp pains or cramps
3️⃣ Increased sensitivity to touch
4️⃣ Loss of balance and coordination
5️⃣ Serious foot problems, such as ulcers, infections, deformities, and bone and joint pain

Early detection is crucial for effective management. If you, or anyone you know, are experiencing these symptoms, please consult a healthcare provider.

👩‍⚕️Treatment Options for Diabetic Neuropathy:

💼Conservative Management:

Blood Sugar Control: Keeping blood sugar levels in check can help prevent further nerve damage.
Medication: Various medications can be used to reduce pain, such as anti-seizure drugs, antidepressants, and opioids.
Physical Therapy: Gentle exercises and physiotherapy may help reduce pain and improve muscle strength.
Healthy Lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and refraining from smoking and alcohol can help manage symptoms.
🔪Surgical Treatment:
Surgery is not typically the first line of treatment, but it may be considered in severe cases where conservative management hasn't been effective or when serious complications arise.

Nerve Decompression Surgery: This can be performed to alleviate pressure on the nerves.
Amputation: In extreme cases, if a severe foot infection occurs due to lack of sensation, an amputation might be necessary.
Possible complications of Diabetic Neuropathy include:

Foot ulcers
Infections
Charcot's joint (a condition leading to deformity of the foot)
Cardiovascular problems
Always remember, early detection and treatment can make a significant difference. Let's continue to be proactive in managing our health, and remind our loved ones to do the same.

This post is intended to raise awareness and should not replace professional medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

🌐💙👣

07/20/2023

🔵👣🩺 Urgent Message to All My Friends & Family 🩺👣🔵

Did you know that an estimated 15% of people with diabetes will develop a foot ulcer at some point? Understanding the signs and symptoms of a Diabetic Foot Ulcer (DFU) can help us address the issue early and prevent complications.

Signs to look out for:
1️⃣ An open sore or wound, usually on the bottom of the foot.
2️⃣ Redness, swelling, or warmth around the wound.
3️⃣ Drainage from the wound - this could be a sign of infection.
4️⃣ Pain isn't always present, as diabetes can cause nerve damage, reducing sensation in the feet.

If you, or someone you know with diabetes, notices any of these signs, it's important to know where to go for help.

💼 🏥 Your First Step: Seek immediate medical attention. Visit your primary care physician, endocrinologist, or a Podiatrist. They can properly diagnose the condition and determine the appropriate treatment plan.

👩‍⚕️👨‍⚕️ Diabetic Foot Specialist: You might be referred to a podiatrist or a wound care clinic. These specialists have experience with diabetic foot ulcers and can provide targeted treatment and advice.

🩺🦶 The Hospital: If the ulcer appears infected (red, warm, painful, or has purulent discharge), or if you have a fever, seek immediate medical attention. Infections from DFUs can rapidly progress and lead to serious complications if not promptly treated.

Remember, the quicker a DFU is diagnosed and treated, the better the outcome. Let's share this information widely to increase awareness, early detection, and prompt treatment of DFUs.

Please note, this information is not a replacement for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.

👣💙🌐

07/16/2023

💡Friends and Family, Let's Talk Health!💡

Did you know that full-thickness foot ulcers, which extend through the dermis and into deeper tissues, can be a serious complication often seen in individuals with diabetes? As much as 15% of individuals with diabetes may experience this at some point. Although these conditions are severe, with appropriate care and attention, we can manage these ulcers at home. However, remember that home care does not replace professional medical advice. Please ensure to get professional advice before starting home care.

👣 Here's how to manage a full-thickness foot ulcer at home:

Cleanse The Wound Daily: Use a mild soap and water or a saline solution to clean the wound. Avoid using hydrogen peroxide or iodine, which can harm the tissue.

Apply a Moist Dressing: After cleansing, apply a moist dressing. These dressings can promote healing by keeping the wound moist. The dressing type depends on the wound's condition and might include foam, hydrogel, or film dressings.

Use a Secondary Dressing: This is used to cover the primary dressing. It can be a gauze, a bandage roll, or a film dressing, depending on the size and location of the wound.

Offload the Wound: Try to reduce pressure on the wound. You can use special footwear or a foot brace. Remember, continual pressure can slow down the healing process.

Regular Inspections: Examine the wound daily. If you see signs of infection like increased redness, swelling, foul-smelling wound drainage, or if you develop a fever, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Control Blood Sugar Levels: Maintaining your blood sugar levels within the target range set by your healthcare provider can help the wound heal more quickly.

Remember, these are general guidelines. The specific care of a full-thickness foot ulcer varies depending on its size, location, and stage of healing. Always follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions.

Foot health matters, especially for our friends and family with diabetes. Let's continue to support one another, ensuring we all get the care we need.

👣💙🌐

07/03/2023

📣 **Attention Facebook friends!** 📣

🦶 Dealing with Bunion or Hallux Abducto Valgus Deformities? Here's everything you need to know about them, including their causes, conservative treatment options, surgical treatment options, and signs to watch out for:

🔬 **Ideology**:
Bunions, also known as Hallux Abducto Valgus deformities, occur when the big toe deviates from its normal alignment, pointing towards the other toes. This condition is often influenced by various factors, including genetics, tight-fitting footwear, abnormal foot mechanics, and certain medical conditions.

🚩 **Signs and Symptoms**:
To recognize potential bunion or Hallux Abducto Valgus deformities, keep an eye out for the following signs and symptoms:
1️⃣ **A bulging bump**: A visible bump at the base of the big toe.
2️⃣ **Toe misalignment**: The big toe deviates towards the other toes, possibly overlapping or forcing them out of alignment.
3️⃣ **Pain and discomfort**: The affected area may be sore, tender, and experience pain during movement or shoe wear.
4️⃣ **Limited mobility**: The range of motion in the big toe joint may become restricted.

🏥 **Conservative Treatment Options**:
1️⃣ **Footwear Modifications**: Wearing shoes with a wider toe box can help relieve pressure and provide more space for the toes.
2️⃣ **Orthotics**: Custom-made shoe inserts or over-the-counter arch supports can help redistribute pressure and correct abnormal foot mechanics.
3️⃣ **Padding and Taping**: Applying padding or tape to the affected area can alleviate discomfort and protect the bunion from further irritation.
4️⃣ **Medication**: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used to manage pain and reduce inflammation.

✂️ **Surgical Treatment Options**:
If conservative measures don't provide sufficient relief, surgical intervention may be considered. The specific procedure recommended depends on the severity of the deformity and individual factors. Here are some common surgical options:
1️⃣ **Bunionectomy**: This procedure involves removing the bony prominence of the bunion and realigning the joint.
2️⃣ **Osteotomy**: It entails cutting and repositioning the bones to correct the deformity.
3️⃣ **Arthrodesis**: In severe cases, fusing the joint may be necessary to provide stability and alleviate pain.
4️⃣ **Joint Replacement**: When the joint is extensively damaged, replacing it with an artificial joint may be considered.

“Cohort Comparison of Radiographic Correction and Complications Between Minimal Invasive and Open Lapidus Procedures for Hallux Valgus
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/10711007221112088?rfr_dat=cr_pub++0pubmed&url_ver=Z39.88-2003&rfr_id=ori%3Arid%3Acrossref.org

Remember, early intervention and appropriate treatment can help manage these deformities effectively. If you suspect a bunion deformity, consult a qualified podiatrist or foot & ankle specialist for a proper evaluation and personalized treatment plan. Visit OFAS at https://ohiofootspecialists.com - with multiple Ohio location

Stay informed and take care of your feet! 🦶💙

Background: The Lapidus procedure corrects hallux valgus first ray deformity. First tarsometatarsal (TMT) fusion in patients with hallux valgus deformity using ...