Diabetic Foot Pain

Diabetic foot pain is frequently the result of circulatory issues and peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy is a nerve condition that affects how the nerves carry information to and from the brain. It can manifest in several different ways including sensory, motor, and autonomic neuropathy. Sensory neuropathy can result in anything from subtle tingling to full-force stabbing pain. In some instances, a gentle touch can result in a surprisingly disproportionate pain. Motor peripheral neuropathy affects muscle nerves, leading to soreness, immobility and imbalance. Likewise, autonomic neuropathy affects functions that are controlled by the subconscious, such as sweating and reflexes. Diabetics suffering autonomic neuropathy will often suffer cracked skin and thickened calluses which can lead to bacterial infection and, in extreme cases, amputation. Circulatory issues can compound these problems and further contribute to diabetic foot pain.

If you are suffering from diabetic foot pain, it is important consult your physician so that you can create a custom treatment plan. The following is a list of commonly recommended steps for managing diabetic foot pain.

• Diabetic shoes. Selecting a proper fitting diabetic shoe, complete with custom insoles, will provide the foot with proper support and prevent further irritation.


• Exercise. Once you have the proper diabetic footwear, make sure you engage the muscles and joints in order to minimize stiffness. In some instances, your doctor may recommend physical therapy with a professional.


• Massage and moisturize. Rubbing your feet with a foot roller and diabetic foot cream containing Vitamin B can help to alleviate pain over time. Use toe nail oil to prevent cracking and ask your doctor about prescription creams that may enhance massaging.


• Compression therapy. The use of compression socks and support hose can improve circulation issues.


• Check your blood sugar regularly. Persistent high blood sugar levels will contribute to the factors which cause foot pain. Make sure you regularly check your blood sugar and monitor any unusual swings or persistent dips/elevations.

Note: This information is not intended to supplement or replace advice from a medical professional, or to diagnose or treat any condition.

About MMAR Medical: MMAR Medical Group Inc. is a wholesale medical supplier specializing in diabetic shoes and braces and supports. Please visit www.mmarmedical.com for the best selection in diabetic footwear and all your brace/support needs.

Getting Feminine Feet Ready for Spring

With spring around the corner, it’s natural to start thinking about bare skin, sun dresses, and painted toes in sandals. It’s also normal to feel a little anxiety after a long winter of dry skin and pedicure-free feet. Now is the time to start preparing to look your best during the warmer months. There is something that is easy to fix now, even if you are still wearing moonboots and shoveling the snow off your car. It’s a small change, but it can have a significant impact on your health, preventing painful and unattractive foot conditions today and for years to come, including unsightly bunions, calluses and hammer toes.

The female foot, like so many other things, is fundamentally different in structure and biomechanics from the male foot. It’s not only smaller than a man’s foot, but also different in shape. It is much narrower, especially in the heel, distributing the weight differently and creating different biomechanical forces. Likewise the female gait is different than that of a male. Women walk a bit more loosely than men because of less muscle mass, looser joints (especially after childbirth), and a different waist to hip ratio. For these reasons, hammertoes, bunions, callus formation, interdigital neuromas, and metatarsalgia are all more common in women than in men. Since foot imbalances and subsequent problems depend on gender and genetics, it is important that women seek out custom orthotic solutions specific to their needs.

Many foot specialists recommend that women seek out flexible yet supportive custom orthotics. A properly fitted orthotic will help prevent or reduce foot problems. It may also provide back or joint pain relief and the reduction of joint friction and long-term damage. Ideally, the orthotics should support the longitudinal and anterior transverse arches of the foot, provide adequate padding and support, and reduce excessive heel movement. In addition to a custom insole, experts recommend ensuring that you are wearing properly fitted shoes. High heels increase the likelihood of improper weight distribution and excessive pressure in localized areas of the foot. You may need different insoles for different heel heights to ensure your feet are protected and look their best when you slip on those sandals when the sun comes back out. Many women with diabetes experience an increased likelihood of these foot issues. The good news is, diabetic shoes not only help to reduce foot ailments, but they also come in a wide variety of attractive styles including trendy sandals and Mary Janes.

Note: This information is not intended to supplement or replace advice from a medical professional, or to diagnose or treat any condition.

About the Author: MMAR Medical Group Inc. is a wholesale medical supplier specializing in diabetic shoes, as well as braces and supports such as knee braces and back braces. To find high-quality diabetic shoes and braces, please visit www.mmarmedical.com.

Alternative Treatment for Diabetes

Alternative medicine is a health-related treatment that is not formally classified as a western medical practice. Also known as complementary medicine, alternative medicine can include dietary and lifestyle changes, and includes everything from acupuncture to supplement use. In some cases, alternative treatments are unproven or even dangerous, so it is important to identify the treatments that are safe and those which pose a potential treat. Always consult a physician before including alternative treatments into your diabetes management routine.

To illustrate this point, it is important to recall the Ephedrine (aka ma huang) ban in early 2003. It was the first herbal stimulant ever banned by the FDA. A popular component of anti-obesity medications, ephedrine was found to cause more harm than good, with side effects including insomnia, high blood pressure, glaucoma, urinary retention, and stroke. For this reason it is strongly recommended that you always consult a doctor before introducing alternative therapies into your health regimen.

Supplements. Perhaps the area in which you should take the most care is in the arena of supplements. There are many snake oil salesmen out there, happy to exploit your desire for better health. Here is a quick reference list of the supplements that are most frequently associated with diabetes management.

• Magnesium has been a subject of interest in medical circles for its potential for improving glucose levels, as a lack of magnesium has been correlated with abnormalities in insulin secretion.


• There have been several studies that support the use of chromium use for diabetes control, though there are no formal medical recommendations for its use in diabetes management.


• A few studies have suggested that vanadium, a plant derivative, can increase a person's sensitivity to insulin.


• Some other supplements believed by some to manage diabetes include garlic, ginger, ginseng, hawthorn, and nettle. ALWAYS talk to your doctor before you introduce significant increases of these items into your diet.

Weight Management.Weight and diabetes are often linked, so weight management is frequently a corner-stone of diabetes treatment. Many diabetics turn to alternative therapies to help with weight loss. Some possible (though unproven and potentially dangerous) weight loss supplements include chitosan, momordica charanta, sauropus androgynus, aristolochic acid, camsogia garcinia (hydroxycitric acid), pyruvate, germander, momordica charanta, chromium, pyruvate, germander, and momordica charanta. ALWAYS discuss weight management with your personal physician prior to introducing any of these into your diet.

Plant and Natural Foods. Brewer's yeast, buckwheat, broccoli and other related greens, okra, peas, fenugreek seeds, and sage are all examples of plant foods believed by some to help with diabetes management. The vast majority of plant foods are high in fiber which is certainly helpful in controlling both glucose levels and appetite. Likewise, a recent report in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that individuals who drank 3 to 4 cups of coffee (decaf or regular) had a 25 percent lower risk for diabetes than those who did not. Further studies are required, but there may be a link between the coffee bean and diabetes prevention.

Alternative Physical Therapies. Exercise is truly the only FDA-approved physical therapy, and even with exercise, it is important to consult a physician before implementing drastic changes to your exercise regimen. In addition to exercise, some alternative treatments include meditation, acupuncture, yoga, aromatherapy, massage, and even hypnosis. Again, discuss these practices with your doctor before including them as they can be expensive and are not proven diabetes management tools.

Note: This information is not intended to supplement or replace advice from a medical professional, or to diagnose or treat any condition.

About the Author:MMAR Medical Group Inc. is a wholesale medical supplier specializing in diabetic footwear, including socks for diabetics and custom made orthotics.

Treatment for Severe Flat Feet in Children

Flat feet (also known as “prenated foot” or “fallen arches”) is a condition where one or both feet do not display a normal arch when standing, walking or running. In infancy, all children appear to be flat footed because of a soft fat pad on the foot. Over time, however, that fat pad dissipates and you will be able to discern a clear arch when the child stands. With flat-footed children the foot may appear normal when sitting, but once weight is applied to the foot, it will roll forward at the ankle creating the appearance of a flat or fallen arch.

Flat feet are usually painless and nonthreatening. Unfortunately, in severe cases, a prenated foot condition may lead to pain or aching in the ankle and foot. If your child complains that they are experiencing foot or ankle pain, it is important that they see a foot specialist to discern the root cause. The doctor can determine if fallen arches are the culprit, rather than more serious hip or knee issues. In some rare cases, flat feet may actually be the result of fused foot bones. A simple X-ray can help determine if that is the case. In some cases, the child may benefit from the use of a custom orthotic insole or heel cup that will resituate the foot and alleviate discomfort. Surgery is not a common treatment for children with flat feet, nor is activity avoidance. Most flat-footed children live very normal lives, playing sports and running just as children with normal arches. Treatment is really focused on alleviating pain, and not permanently correcting the arch itself.

When looking for orthotic inserts to treat your child’s foot pain, look for quality which will deliver longer-lasting comfort. Custom orthotic insoles are generally the best choice. You want an insole that will cushion the foot, absorb shock, and transfer to many of the child’s shoes for a consistently comfortable fit. There are a number of different insole styles available depending on your child’s needs. Consult with your doctor to determine what type of support the child requires.

About the Author: MMAR Medical Group Inc. is a leading orthotic device supplier specializing in diabetic footwear including shoes and socks for diabetics as well as a full line of orthotic insoles.

Knee Braces: Types and Uses

A healthy knee can flex, bend and straighten easily and without pain. While the knee’s function may seem simple, a knee injury can be complicated, annoying and painful. Since knees are fundamental to walking, running, kicking and sitting, an injury can derail many of life’s enjoyable activities. If you have suffered a knee injury, your physician can help guide you to the right brace to help rehabilitate and facilitate movement. This guide is intended to offer you a quick summary on what types of knee braces are available and their usefulness.

• Post Operative Knee Braces / Post-op Knee Braces As the name implies, these braces are used for post-operative support and rehabilitation. A quality post-op knee brace should be lightweight, but durable. Depending on your rehabilitation needs, you may need a brace with a full range of motion, or one with immobilization or limited range of motion settings. Post-op braces are available in different lengths, often feature moldable pieces, and should be easily adjusted for a perfect fit. Look for breathable materials and user-friendly adjustment features.


• Functional-OA Knee Brace Osteoarthritis (OA) affects over 20 million Americans and involves the erosion of joint cartilage. A functional-OA knee brace can be used to stabilize knees suffering OA symptoms, reducing pain and additional erosion of the joint. Typically a knee is affected on either the outside (lateral) or inside (medial) of the leg, though it is not unheard of to have a knee with OA symptoms on both sides of the knee. The brace hinge should be situated on the side or sides that are affected, and should be lightweight, durable, and easily adjustable. Since they will be worn for an indefinite prolonged period of time, comfort is very important.


• Functional-Ligament Knee Brace The stability of the knee joint is maintained by four ligaments, the ACL, PCL, MCL, and LCL. A common sports injury, a torn knee ligament is usually treated with a functional ligament hinged knee brace. Torn or unstable knee ligaments require a lightweight, durable brace that supports the joint. Look for braces that offer the four-point principle for biomechanical stabilization.


• Contracture Knee BracesA knee contracture is the shortening of a tendon resulting in a restricted range of motion and pain. Under medical supervision, a contracture knee brace can be used to support the knee and increase flexibility over time. Look for adjustment range, comfort, and durability. Padding should be breathable and non-irritating. Contracture and post-op knee braces are occasionally interchangeable.

Note: This information is not intended to supplement or replace advice from a medical professional, or to diagnose or treat any condition.

About MMAR Medical Group: MMAR Medical Group Inc. is a supplier of orthopedic medical products including a wide selection of braces and supports. To find a quality hinged knee brace or diabetic footwear and orthotic inserts please visit www.mmarmedical.com .

How Diabetes Can Affect Your Skin

During the dry, winter months, it is normal to experience dry, flaky skin. For some, this is simply an inconvenience, but for diabetics, it may be a sign of more serious issues. Nerve damage, a common side effect of diabetes, can lead to dangerous skin conditions which are in turn aggravated by the cold weather. When serious diabetic skin issues arise, urgent care is required. The American Diabetes Association (link) notes that up to a third of all diabetics will experience a diabetes related skin problem in their lifetime. Below is a list of possible dermatologic disorders that are common to diabetics followed by specific tips for avoiding these potentially dangerous conditions.

• Intense itching: Especially common in the lower legs, itching can be caused by dryness, poor circulation, yeast infections, or a combination of these. To complicate things, diabetic nerve damage often results in decreased sweating, thus robbing the skin of natural moisture. When scratched, skin may crack and become infected. For this reason, it is best to resist scratching when possible.


• Infections: Bacterial and fungal infections can be very serious. Infections are most frequently experienced on the feet, but can also occur in skin folds (for example, under arms or breasts) or even in the mouth as Thrush. If you suspect skin infection seek treatment immediately.


• Necrobiosis: Insulin-resistant diabetics may develop red/purple spot-like lesions on their lower legs and feet known at necrobiosis. The spots can get as large as four inches in diameter. This is a rare condition and typically not dangerous, unless the lesions break open which can make them prone to infection. If a lesion does rupture, seek medical help immediately.


• Digital sclerosis: Some diabetics may develop thick, tight, “waxy” skin on their hands, feet, or neck. Though not dangerous, it is uncomfortable and is best treated with moisturizer and by bringing blood glucose to normal levels.


• Acanthosis nigricans: Insulin-resistant, obese diabetics may experience acanthosis nigricans which is characterized by thickened, "velvety" skin in skin folds. There is no known cure for this condition, though losing weight will often lessen symptoms.


• Diabetic dermopathy: Brown scaly patches on the shins and legs may indicate diabetic dermopathy, the most common diabetic dermatologic condition. This ailment typically develops in older diabetics and can be an indicator of other, more serious diabetic problems. For this reason, anyone suffering diabetic dermopathy should immediately visit their physician.


• Atherosclerosis: Typically the result of high blood pressure, atherosclerosis is the narrowing of blood vessels resulting in skin thinning, especially on the legs. Since thin skin is more delicate, this can lead to skin ruptures and possible infection. Most amputations are caused by atherosclerosis complications, so skin care and medical treatment is imperative.

Many of the before-mentioned conditions can be avoided or minimized with vigilant personal care. Keep skin clean and moisturized. Make it a point to examine your skin regularly for persistent or unusual symptoms. Avoid extremely hot baths, showers, or hot tubs. Use talcum powder in skin folds to prevent excess moisture. Do not smoke as smoking has been proven to worsen many of these skin conditions. Wear comfortable diabetic footwear and orthotic inserts to protect feet from wear and tear, and use gloves when gardening or doing rugged activities. Lastly, always see a medical professional whenever you experience a skin complication that concerns you.

Please note that this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition, or be taken as medical advice. For more information related to your unique situation, please speak with your personal physician.

About the Author: MMAR Medical Group Inc. is a wholesale distributor of comfort footwear offering a wide selection of diabetic footwear and orthotic inserts. Please visit www.mmarmedical.com for more information.

Recommended Uses for Cervical Collars

A cervical collar or neck brace is an important orthopedic device that has several possible uses for spinal health. The following list is intended to serve as a quick reference point for appropriate usage of cervical collars, but it is critical to consult with your physician when determining whether a cervical collar will be beneficial for your specific condition.

• Traumatic neck or head injuries including fracture and dislocation. A cervical collar can be administered by medical professionals after a serious neck injury in order to stabilize the cervical area of an injured person’s spinal cord and skull. In this instance, the brace reduces the likelihood of spinal damage and subsequent paralysis or even death. The collar stabilizes the top seven vertebrae (C1 through C7) until a medical diagnosis can ascertain whether or not a risk is present.


• Recovery. A cervical collar can also be used during recovery from a traumatic neck or head injury or after a spinal surgery. The patient may be advised to wear the device until they are fully healed.


• Whiplash and therapeutic usage. Cervical collarsare sometimes used to treat chronic medical conditions related to the neck and spine area, including realigning the spinal cord and treating whiplash and sprains. Whiplash is the result of injury to the soft tissues found around the cervical spine and is typically caused by hyperextension or sudden rotation. Whiplash is most commonly treated with a soft cervical collar, though current research shows that recovery time is accelerated when treatment also includes physical therapy and exercise.


• Cervical radiculopathy. Disk herniation, tumors, and certain traumas can lead to nerve root damage causing cervical radiculopathy. In the past this condition was often corrected with surgery, but recent studies have shown that it can be successfully treated with a combination of cold therapy, rest, exercise and the use of a hard cervical collar. Again, this is something to be addressed by a physician, specifically one that specializes in spines.


• Neck pain. Neck pain is a highly enigmatic condition because of the complexity of the nervous system. It is difficult to always identify root causes and is thus complicated to treat. While the use of cervical collars is not routinely used for pain management, they are occasionally used under the supervision of a physician.

Note: This information is not intended to supplement or replace advice from a medical professional, or to diagnose or treat any condition.

About the Author: MMAR Medical Group Inc. is a leading diabetic shoes and supplies supplier, including socks for diabetics and orthotic insoles.