HEALTH

Diabetes & Your Feet – Foot Health Tips

Published

4 months ago

June 4, 2024

Diabetes mellitus – usually referred to simply as diabetes – is a chronic disease in which the body’s ability to produce or respond to the hormone insulin is impaired. This results in all sorts of health complications, not least the impact it can have on your feet.

What is diabetes?

Diabetes (the full terms is diabetes mellitus) is a type of endocrine disease. It is a metabolic disorder in which the body has high blood sugar levels for prolonged periods of time.

What are the different types of diabetes?

Diabetes type 1

Type 1 Diabetes is a result of an auto-immune destruction of pancreatic insulin producing cells.
Genetics, and pancreatic diseases can play a role in causing type 1 diabetes.
It is most common in young children, and is a lifelong condition to be managed.
Treatment includes lifestyle modifications and taking insulin to keep blood sugar levels under control.

Diabetes type 2

This condition results from insufficient production of insulin, causing high blood sugar.
Type 2 diabetes can occur when the body becomes resistant to insulin. Cells are not able to absorb glucose and convert it into energy as a result of this resistance.
Risk factors include age, as well as lifestyle choices such as smoking, lack of exercise, and obesity.
Genetics also plays a part in whether you develop type 2 diabetes.

Gestational diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a condition in which women develop diabetes (high blood sugar) during pregnancy. Initially, it may not cause any symptoms. Excessive thirst, sweating and frequent urination may be noticed as it progresses.
Urgent medical attention will be required to manage the condition.

What are the symptoms of diabetes?

Symptoms can include frequent urination, weight gain or loss, and excessive thirst or hunger. Slow healing of wounds, fatigue, and blurred vision can also occur. The complications resulting from diabetes are one of the main risks.

What effect can diabetes have on your feet?

Diabetes complications can have a serious effect on your feet. Having glucose levels that are too high in your blood can cause some significant foot problems.

There are two main foot problems associated with diabetes:

Diabetic neuropathy. This is where your diabetes causes nerve damage, and you may no longer retain the feeling in your legs and feet. The potential danger is that you therefore might not be aware of foot pain, which can lead to injuries going untreated, and cuts and sores becoming infected, which can cause a spiral of ever more serious health problems.
Nerve damage in the feet can also mean that you cannot control the muscles in that area properly, leading to mobility problems.
Peripheral vascular disease. Blood flow is also affected by diabetes. Poor blood flow means it will take longer for any foot injuries to heal, leaving you at greater risk of developing further conditions such as gangrene in your open wounds. Poor blood flow in the arms and legs is called peripheral vascular disease.

How do common foot conditions affect someone with diabetes?

As well as conditions specific to diabetes, sufferers will also have to contend with the increased risk that diabetes complications can create with common foot problems. While anyone can get one of the following conditions, if you are managing diabetes you face much more serious complications, such as the higher risk of infection and even amputation.

Plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a condition resulting from the overstretching of the plantar fascia ligament, an overuse injury. Plantar fasciitis leads to heel pain and discomfort that can develop slowly throughout the day. A diabetic might find that losing weight can relieve pressure and help manage this condition.

Heel spurs

This is a bony protrusion from the heel bone, often associated with plantar fasciitis. A heel spur should hopefully not cause too many problems, but if it starts to cause uneven weight distribution that can increase the risk of other injuries or falling, which can have serious implications for anyone with underlying health issues.

Athlete’s foot

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection, often caused by bacteria thriving on sweaty feet in tight shoes. The risk with athlete’s foot is that germs can enter through skin cracks and cause infection.

Dry skin

Similarly to athlete’s foot, the danger is of damaged skin allowing infection to take hold. A rigorous foot care and hygiene routine should be followed to limit the risk of diabetes complications.

Ingrown toenails

An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of a nail grows into your skin. This causes pain, redness, swelling, inflammation, and can easily lead to dangerous infection if you suffer from diabetes. Ill fitting shoes, badly maintained toenails, or trauma to the area can all prompt ingrown toenails, which are most common in the big toe.

Hammer toe, claw foot

These are similar conditions that cause the shape of your foot to become deformed. The toe bends downward and the toe joint points to the sole of your shoe, causing mobility issues. Hammer or mallet toe can be a genetic condition, but it can also be caused by ill fitting shoes. Any of these conditions will likely lead to blisters, calluses and sores, and with them the risk of infection and further diabetes complications.

Plantar warts

These are caused by a virus and are usually painful. They often occur on the underside of the foot, meaning they are then compressed by walking and make physical activity uncomfortable. You may have to have them removed by a doctor.

Ulcers

These are deep breaks or sores in the skin. They can develop from minor cuts, scratches and abrasions to the skin, caused by shoes that rub or small accidents that do not seem at all serious. But if you have diabetes, and potentially slow healing wounds, ulcers can soon become established. It’s important to get them treated before they become infected.

Calluses and corns

These common foot problems have potentially greater implications for someone suffering from diabetes. Calluses and corns are similar conditions involving a build up of hard skin. They occur most commonly around the foot joints. While not presenting grave health concerns, they can easily lead to minor injuries and cracking that can become infected, and so they must be cared for appropriately.

How should someone with diabetes look after their foot health?

If you are managing diabetes, it’s still possible to maintain good foot health and minimize foot problems.

Take care of yourself. Follow your doctor’s advice, maintain a healthy diet, try and get your exercise in, and keep taking your medication. Monitor your blood sugar level and keep it at the recommended level.
Keep your feet really clean. Wash them every day in warm water. Take the temperature of the water before putting your feet in, in case you are suffering from diabetic neuropathy and might not feel a burn. Don’t soak your feet, but clean them thoroughly before completely drying them.
Check your feet daily for any cuts, sores or abrasions. Seek treatment if you have the slightest concern about a foot condition.
Use moisturizing lotion to care for the skin of your feet. Ask your doctor which lotion would be most appropriate.
Smooth corns and calluses after your bath or shower with an emery board. Go only in one direction and use only a gentle pressure to remove the dead skin.
Pay attention to your toenails. Clip them once a week, straight across. Don’t cut down the sides or at an angle as this increases the risk of ingrown toenails.
Always protect your feet by wearing shoes that enclose them, even around the house. Walking barefoot presents a huge risk.
Wear good quality proper shoes that fit well. Wearing poor fitting shoes is the cause of many foot problems that could have disastrous complications for a diabetic person.
Protect your feet. Check shoes don’t have objects left inside, and always make sure you are wearing shoes in more hazardous environments. Consider the temperature too – don’t let feet get too hot or too cold, and remember diabetic neuropathy may be affecting your ability to judge the temperature. Don’t wear high heels.
Encourage blood flow. Keep moving when you can, try and get some physical activity every day, and if nothing else wiggle your feet and flex your ankles to get blood into your extremities.
If you have a foot condition that requires treatment, get it straight away. Some that might seem simple, such as foot blisters, can turn into slow healing sores and become a big problem without the right medical help.
Check in regularly with a foot specialist, even if you don’t have any foot problems. It will set your mind at rest and you can’t be too careful.

Are you looking for ways to improve your foot health?

Whether you have diabetes or ingrown toenails, at Foot Solutions we can help. As experts in all things foot care, our range of specialist footwear caters for every foot need. From foot pads to physical therapy, we know how to relieve pain and help you step out in style and comfort. Perhaps you have diabetes and are thinking about better protection for your feet; or you are concerned that your tight calf muscles are caused by ill fitting shoes. Whatever your worry, come to Foot Solutions today, where our friendly team can help you put your best foot forward!

HEALTH

The Benefits of Non-Surgical Fat Freezing Technologies

Published

19 hours ago

October 14, 2024

Sting Fellows

What is Non-Surgical Fat Freezing?

Non-surgical fat freezing, also known as cryolipolysis, represents a breakthrough in body contouring technology, enabling individuals to target and reduce unwanted fat deposits without invasive surgery. Unlike traditional liposuction, this noninvasive body contouring treatment Virginia Beach utilizes cold temperatures to crystallize and ultimately destroy fat cells. Non-surgical fat freezing is a safer, less invasive alternative to traditional surgical methods in aesthetic medicine. It involves freezing fat cells, which die while skin and other tissues remain intact. Over time the body processes and eliminates these dead fat cells reducing the fat layer thickness. This method effectively treats the abdomen, thighs, flanks, and under the chin.

How Does It Work?

Cryolipolysis is a procedure that involves applying a specialized cooling device to the skin over a targeted fat area causing the fat cells to crystallize. This selective targeting allows for a safer and more focused fat reduction method. The body’s natural metabolic processes then take over, breaking down the crystallized fat cells and removing them by the lymphatic system. Results typically appear within a few weeks, with full results visible after two to three months. This method’s ability to naturally remove dead fat cells makes it popular among those seeking a less invasive body contouring solution.

Benefits of Non-Surgical Fat Freezing

It is minimally invasive with minimal downtime, allowing patients to resume their daily activities immediately after the procedure.
Clinically proven to reduce fat in specific areas by up to 25% per treatment session, significantly improving body shape and contour.
This process reduces the risk of complications like infection or scars compared to more conventional surgical methods like liposuction. The noninvasive nature of the treatment ensures a safer experience for patients.

Who Can Opt for This Procedure?

People who suffer from fat deposits resistant to diet and exercise and near their desired body weight are good candidates for non-surgical fat freezing. It targets the abdomen, flanks, thighs and upper arms. A conversation with a healthcare expert is essential to ascertain if the therapy aligns with objectives and health state. A personalized treatment plan is created considering medical history, current health status and aesthetic goals ensuring effective treatment for each patient.

What to Expect During the Procedure

A cooling applicator treats a specific body area, initially causing a cold sensation that eventually turns numbness. The treatment session is comfortable and can be done while reading, working or napping. The average operation takes approximately an hour, and depending on the area to be treated and the quantity of fat, more sessions can be required. Although rare, mild side effects like redness, swelling, or numbness generally pass quickly.

Recovery and Results

Non-surgical fat freezing offers a quick recovery time, allowing patients to resume daily activities immediately. Minor side effects like redness, bruising, or numbness are temporary and subside within a few days. Unlike surgical procedures, no incisions or stitches reduce postoperative care and complications. Results appear within weeks, with gradual improvements appearing after about three months. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise is crucial for long-term results. This natural progression of fat reduction is why non-surgical fat freezing is widespread among patients seeking a more natural-looking body contour improvement.

Comparing Non-Surgical Fat Freezing With Other Methods

Non-surgical fat freezing is a non-invasive method that offers targeted results compared to general weight loss through diet and exercise. Surgical complications like infections or scarring are not risky because it doesn’t require anesthesia or a lengthy recovery period. That makes it attractive for those looking to fine-tune their body contours without surgery. Non-surgical fat freezing also poses fewer risks and side effects than surgical options, delivering gradual, sustainable results with minimal impact on daily activities. As knowledge of its benefits grows, it’s becoming popular for those seeking a less invasive solution.

Conclusion

Non-surgical fat freezing is a promising treatment for removing stubborn fat without surgery. It offers minimal downtime, targeted fat reduction, and lower complications risk. Its innovative approach has made it popular for body contouring solutions. As its popularity grows, it becomes a viable alternative to traditional methods. Take the first step in reaching your physical objectives and speak with a certified healthcare physician to determine if this treatment is proper.

HEALTH

The Future of UPMC Medicare Advantage Plans: Trends and Innovations

Published

2 days ago

October 13, 2024

Ben Austin

With 2025 on the horizon, we can expect significant advancements and trends shaping the future of these plans, bringing innovative healthcare options to millions of beneficiaries.

One key aspect when looking to compare UPMC Medicare Advantage plans for 2025 is the increasing focus on personalized healthcare, driven by cutting-edge technologies and patient-centric models.

This shift will likely result in better care coordination, enhanced telehealth services, and more tailored benefit packages, catering to the unique needs of each individual.

Telehealth and Digital Health Tools

Telehealth has already made a big splash in healthcare, but for UPMC Medicare Advantage plans, it is only the beginning. The pandemic accelerated the adoption of virtual healthcare, but future trends indicate that telehealth will become a standard feature in Medicare plans.

This is particularly beneficial for older adults who may have difficulty traveling to healthcare facilities. With real-time access to healthcare providers from the comfort of home, the convenience and accessibility of telehealth will reshape how beneficiaries receive care.

In addition to telehealth, UPMC is expected to roll out advanced digital health tools such as wearable devices and mobile health apps.

These tools allow patients to monitor their health in real time, track important metrics such as heart rate and blood sugar levels, and share data seamlessly with their healthcare providers.

By integrating digital health solutions into their Medicare Advantage plans, UPMC is empowering beneficiaries to take control of their health, enhancing preventive care and reducing hospital readmissions.

Enhanced Care Coordination

Another trend poised to shape the future of UPMC Medicare Advantage plans is improved care coordination.

With an aging population and more beneficiaries managing chronic conditions, the need for seamless communication between healthcare providers is critical. UPMC is investing in advanced care management systems that ensure all members of a patient’s care team are informed and aligned on treatment plans.

This coordination helps avoid unnecessary hospitalizations, reduces duplicate tests, and ensures that patients receive the right care at the right time. Furthermore, UPMC’s focus on integrating primary care, specialists, and long-term care services into a cohesive network is likely to lead to better patient outcomes and overall satisfaction.

Preventive Care and Wellness Programs

UPMC Medicare Advantage plans are expected to emphasize preventive care more than ever before. As healthcare shifts from a reactive to a proactive model, preventive screenings, vaccinations, and wellness visits will play a pivotal role in maintaining the health of Medicare beneficiaries.

These services not only improve individual health but also help reduce the overall cost of care by catching potential health issues early.

In addition to traditional preventive care services, UPMC will likely expand wellness programs that encourage healthy lifestyle choices. These programs may include fitness classes, nutrition counseling, and mental health support. By offering these programs, UPMC aims to help beneficiaries stay active, manage stress, and maintain a higher quality of life.

Expanded Drug Coverage

Prescription drug coverage is another area where UPMC Medicare Advantage plans are likely to see improvements. With rising prescription costs, UPMC is expected to offer more comprehensive drug coverage, including options for generic medications and expanded formularies.

UPMC may implement programs that help beneficiaries manage their medications effectively, ensuring adherence to prescribed treatments and reducing the risk of adverse drug interactions.

Conclusion

The future of UPMC Medicare Advantage plans is bright, with numerous trends and innovations on the horizon that will benefit Medicare beneficiaries in 2025 and beyond.

Telehealth services, digital health tools, enhanced care coordination, and expanded wellness programs are just a few of the ways UPMC is setting itself apart in the Medicare space.

By focusing on personalized care, preventive measures, and seamless integration of healthcare services, UPMC Medicare Advantage plans are well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of an aging population.

HEALTH

Understanding the Role of a Geriatric Therapist in Improving Quality of Life

Published

4 days ago

October 11, 2024

Sting Fellows

Are you looking for ways to help your loved ones enjoy their golden years? A geriatric therapist can make a real difference by focusing on improving their well-being and quality of life. Through specialized care, seniors can experience a more fulfilling and active lifestyle.

Aging can bring many challenges, but a geriatric therapist is there to help. Their compassionate approach ensures that elderly individuals receive the support they need. In this blog, we will discuss the roles of a geriatric therapist in improving the quality of life.

Promoting Mobility and Independence Through Therapeutic Exercises
A geriatric therapist helps seniors move better and stay active. They make special exercise plans for each person. These plans help seniors move more and become independent.

Therapeutic exercises can be simple, like strength training. This helps make muscles stronger and protects the joints. As seniors get stronger, everyday tasks become easier.

Regular movement exercises can stop falls from happening. This is important to keep seniors safe. With better balance, seniors can move more freely and enjoy life.

Addressing Cognitive Decline with Specialized Interventions

Senior health improvement also involves helping the brain. Geriatric therapists use special activities to boost thinking skills. These activities can help seniors stay sharp and focused.

Memory games are a key part of this care. They can strengthen memory and keep the mind active. Engaging in these activities provides mental challenges for seniors.

Therapeutic elderly care includes teaching coping strategies. This helps seniors deal with changes in their mental health. With support, seniors can adapt better to cognitive decline.

Managing Chronic Pain and Improving Physical Comfort

Managing chronic pain helps seniors feel better and stay active. Naples’ on-site physical therapy for seniors provides safe exercise to ease pain and improve comfort. These exercises are gentle and made just for older adults.

Physical therapy can make muscles stronger and loosen stiff joints. This helps seniors move more easily without feeling as much pain. With regular sessions, they can feel more comfortable every day.

Therapists focus on helping seniors feel better in the long run. The goal is to reduce pain and make daily life easier. Seniors can enjoy more activities with less discomfort.

Supporting Emotional Well-Being and Mental Health in Seniors

Emotional health is important for aging wellness solutions. Geriatric therapists focus on mental well-being too. They provide coping strategies for stress and loneliness.

Regular counseling can reduce feelings of isolation. Supportive therapy creates a space for sharing feelings. Seniors often feel empowered when they can talk openly.

Building connections within the community is another goal. Participating in social activities can improve mental health. A strong support network increases their quality of life.

Find Greater Comfort with a Geriatric Therapist

A geriatric therapist helps seniors improve their well-being and stay active. They create personalized care plans that boost mobility and reduce pain. With their guidance, seniors can enjoy life with more ease and comfort.

Managing pain and improving physical comfort are key to a better quality of life for seniors. Therapy sessions focus on helping them feel stronger and more independent. With continued care, seniors can stay active and enjoy their golden years.