Footcare for Diabetes Patients

Diabetes is a chronic medical condition that can affect the entire body. Diabetes causes circulation issues, which affects the feet. Proper foot care is extremely important for diabetic patients, especially since even a minor injury can cause serious complications. Salt Lake City podiatrist Dr. Elizabeth Auger offers foot care tips for patients with diabetes.

Preventative Care
For proper foot care, do the following:
Keep your blood sugar levels under control.
Check your feet daily for cuts, blisters, swelling and red spots.
Wash your feet daily. Make sure to dry between each toe.
Protect your feet from extreme temperatures.
Keep toenails trimmed to prevent cuts from long nails.
Exercise more.
Quit smoking.
Moisturize daily with lotion. This will keep your feet soft and smooth. Just avoid putting lotion between the toes.
Wear comfortable shoes.
Wear socks and shoes at all times. Avoid walking barefoot, especially outside.
Ask your doctor about getting special shoes.

When to Call Your Podiatrist
Contact your podiatrist if you have an ingrown toenail or simply need your nails clipped and cannot do it yourself safely. Cuts or breaks in the skin also require a call to the doctor. You should also inform your podiatrist if your foot changes shape or color or becomes painful.

Proper Footcare is Key
If you have diabetes, you have an increased risk of developing foot problems. Schedule an annual appointment with your podiatrist, who can provide you with a checklist for foot care. To learn more, contact Salt Lake City podiatrist Dr. Elizabeth Auger at (801) 619-2170.
www.slcpodiatrist.com

Choose Custom Orthotics for Comfort

If you're looking for a little extra support for your feet, you may be tempted to try the inserts you find in the shoe department of your local store. While these may provide some comfort, they can end up feeling awkward because they're not made especially for your feet. For the ultimate in comfort, consider custom orthotics. These can be a little costly but the cost is well worth it. Sandy, Utah podiatrist Dr. Elizabeth Auger recommends orthotics for patients who suffer from pain and gait alignment issues.

Types of Orthotics
There are two main types of orthotics:

Functional: These orthotics are used to fix pain caused by an abnormal gait. They are also useful for tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, bursitis and shin splints. They are made of graphite or plastic.

Accommodative: These are softer than functional orthotics. They offer extra support and cushioning. Accommodative orthotics work well for uncomfortable foot conditions such as calluses and diabetic foot ulcers.

Benefits

• Custom orthotics have been proven to reduce heel pain and improve mobility. They can even help align your foot bones. They are useful for a variety of foot conditions.
• Orthotics are molded to fit your individual foot, so their fit is guaranteed. They can last for many years with proper care.

Walk More Comfortably
Prescription orthotics are created for only one person - you. if you're suffering from pain or gait issues, ask your podiatrist about how orthotics can help you find relief. To order your custom foot orthotics, call Sandy, Utah podiatrist Dr. Elizabeth Auger at (801) 619-2170.
www.slcpodiatrist.com

Appropriate Footwear

Are You Wearing Appropriate Footwear?

We spend a large portion of our day walking. Because of this, we should be wearing shoes that are comfortable. Many of us, however, wear sandals or high heels throughout the day, causing issues such as corns, calluses and pain in the feet, legs, hips and back. You can avoid these issues with appropriate footwear. Sandy podiatrist Dr. Elizabeth Auger understands the importance of appropriate footwear and can give you tips on choosing the right shoes for your feet.

Why Wear the Right Shoes?

The wrong shoes can be painful. Narrow ones, like high heels, can cause hammertoes and bunions. Some shoes are also very thin and don't offer much support. This can cause pain in the heels and arches and even lead to tendonitis. Another issue is that people tend to guess their shoe sizes. They wear whatever they think fits, but they may not know their true shoe size. That's when it pays to go to a reputable shoe store and have an employee professionally measure your foot. Based on the width and length of your foot, the employee can offer shoes that fit well, offer support and most importantly, feel great.

Orthotics may also be helpful. These inserts absorb shock and pressure and can be created specifically for sports, dress clothing and everyday wear.

Wear the Right Shoes

Invest in the right shoes and inserts and you'll be investing in your health. You'll feel much better from head to toe. To purchase appropriate footwear for your needs, contact Sandy podiatrist Dr. Elizabeth Auger at (801) 619-2170.

www.slcpodiatrist.com

Ingrown Toenail Causes and Prevention

Anyone can get an ingrown toenail, but adults get them more than children do. Like many people, when you trim your toenails, you may taper the corners so that the nail curves with the shape of your toe. But what you may not realize is that this technique encourages your toenail to grown into the skin of your toe, causing an ingrown toenail. Any of your toenails can become ingrown, but the problem more often affects the big toe. If you are timid about trimming your toenails, give Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM a call so she can assist you.

When you first have an ingrown toenail, it may be hard, swollen, and tender. You can develop in an ingrown toenail by cutting your toenail too short, wearing shoes that are too tight, and stubbing/hitting the nail on a hard surface. The main symptom from an ingrown toenail is the pain from the nail growing into the skin instead of over it. To relieve pain, you can soak your sore toe in warm water for 15 minutes two to three times each day to help it grow out naturally, but you should never by any means attempt to remove the nail on your own.

To help prevent an ingrown toenail:

• Trim your toenails straight across – if you have a condition that causes poor blood flow to your feet and can’t trim your nails, visit our office regularly so that we can trim them for you.
• Keep toenails at a moderate length – if you trim your toenails too short the pressure from your shoes may cause an ingrown toenail.
• Wear shoes that fit properly – shoots that place too much pressure on the toes can cause the nail to grow into surrounding tissue.
• Check your feet daily!

If you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, please give us a call. To learn more about the conditions we treat and the services we provide at the practice, visit www.slcpodiatrist.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM at one of her podiatry practices in the Sandy, UT, area, call 801-619-2170.

Plantar Fasciitis

Heel pain can often be caused by stress fractures, a nerve irritation, cysts, tendonitis and most often plantar fasciitis. This is a condition that affects the flat tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot connecting the heel bone with the toes. This tissue is called the plantar fascia. When you have strained this part of the body, the plantar fascia can swell and become weak. There are treatments that can assist in relieving this condition. Contacting a qualified podiatrist like Dr. Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM at her locations in West Jordan, UT, Salt Lake City, UT, and Sandy, UT can set you on your way to walking comfortably again.

Reasons and Treatments for Plantar Fasciitis

There are several reasons that a person could experience plantar fasciitis including overuse of the foot. Individuals that stand for long periods of time, especially those that are overweight, could put too much pressure on the plantar fascia causing it to become weak and less supportive. The treatment for such a problem might include ice and medications to reduce the swelling and exercises and stretches to stretch the area. Patients will also need to make sure they are wearing supportive, well-fitting shoes. Orthotics may be beneficial for patients who need specific support. In some more severe cases, surgery may be an option for correcting the problem. Specifically-designed footwear can also be worn in an effort to make proper adjustments and reduce the pressure to the area.

Putting off treatment can result in more pain and a longer recovery time. If you are experiencing pain in your heel and the arch of your foot, it is important to have it evaluated. Call us today at 801-619-2170 for an appointment with Dr. Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM. Dr. Auger has locations in West Jordan, UT, Salt Lake City, UT, and Sandy, UT. 

http://www.slcpodiatrist.com/

Orthotics

When you are looking for someone to help you get relief from the pain in your feet you need to turn to a podiatrist. Many of the problems that you are suffering can be treated with the help of orthotics that are made just for you. The professional you work with will be able to provide you with the information that you need to get the job done in relieving your pain on a regular basis. Elizabeth Auger can give you the help you need to remove the pain and get yourself back on track.

Orthotics Can Help

Orthotics can be placed in your shoes or could be a shoe itself to help you get the comfort that you need. Depending on your situation, Dr. Auger might recommend orthotics for both feet or just one. Some orthotics are adjustable based on the individual needs and others are set to be one way only. Make sure that if you are working with Dr. Auger for the orthotics that you have time to have them fit properly. The right orthotics need to be fitted to your feet and your needs, particularly, before they can be helpful.

You don’t have to live with the pain in your feet any longer. You can get the results you want and the help you need from a podiatrist that has the knowledge. Call us today at 801-619-2170 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Elizabeth Auger at our Sandy, West Jordan, or Salt Lake City location. 

www.slcpodiatrist.com

Heel Pain

Some people just assume that heel pain is a part of life, particularly if they are on their feet most of the day. This isn’t the case and you shouldn’t live with the pain that you are feeling. Heel pain can be relieved with the right diagnosis and the correct treatment. Contacting a qualified podiatrist like Elizabeth F. Auger, DPM in West Jordan, Utah can set you on your way to walking comfortably again.

Possible Reasons for Heel Pain

When you have heel pain you will want to contact a professional right away. It could be plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, a nerve irritation, cysts, even tendonitis. Getting it treated as soon as possible is the key to making sure that you are recovering fully. Dr. Auger will look over your feet, check to see how flexible they are and may do an x-ray to try to determine the cause of the pain. Once this has been accomplished, a plan for treatment will be established and you will be on your way to recovery. Dr. Auger might suggest that you use orthotics to give you a more comfortable feeling when you are walking until the problem is resolved.

Make sure that you get the best possible results by contacting our office right away. We will give you all the options and help you to make the best decision for your situation. Call us today at 801-619-2170 to schedule an appointment at our Sandy, West Jordan, or Salt Lake City location. 
www.slcpodiatrist.com

Bunions: Causes and Treatments

Bunions can cause discomfort, pain, and they can even change the way you walk. Unfortunately, bunions are common conditions. Fortunately, Dr. Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM is able to diagnose and treat bunions here in her West Jordan, UT, Salt Lake City, UT, and Sandy, UT locations.

A bunion is a bone formation usually located on the inside of the foot by the big toe’s first joint. It is possible to develop a bunion on the other side of the foot by the little toe’s first joint (called a tailor’s bunion). The formation is an abnormal bump that is red, sore, and inflamed. They can develop large enough to cause major pain. When being irritated, they can also become swollen and patients may experience a burning sensation. A bunion may also stiffen the joint.

Bunions are commonly caused by wearing inappropriate shoes. Shoes that do not allow enough room for the toes and high heels are often the culprits. When the toe joint is continually being pushed inward, that is when the joint begins to deform. Along with ill-fitting shoes, other factors in the formation of bunions include injuries, arthritis, and inheritance of a certain foot type.

There are several conservative treatments for slowing down the formation of a bunion and relieving the pain it causes. Wearing more supportive shoes will be the first step. Choose shoes that allow space for all of the toes. In addition, do not wear shoes with a tall heel or even switch to no heels at all if your foot is still being bothered. In addition to well-fitting shoes, orthotic insoles or custom orthotic insoles can help. Dr. Auger can help you choose the right orthotic for your unique condition. Padding and splinting inside of the shoe can also help move the toe joint back into place. Anti-inflammatories and ice are good for relieving pain and swelling.

If you are showing signs of a bunion, be sure to schedule an appointment with Dr. Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM so she can diagnose you, help you determine the factors of formation, and treat you. To schedule at Dr. Auger’s West Jordan, UT location, Salt Lake City, UT location, or Sandy, UT location, call us at (801) 619-2170. For more information, visit our website,www.slcpodiatrist.com.

Pesky Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are an annoyance, can be painful, and they can sometimes be tough to get rid of. Dr. Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM treats patients for plantar warts in her West Jordan, UT, Salt Lake City, UT, and Sandy, UT locations.

Plantar warts are small, tough growths that appear on the bottom of your foot. They take on the appearance of a callus with tiny black dots. The wart usually starts out small and grows larger and inward over time. Usually, there will be pain when standing or walking on it. Plantar warts can usually be treated at home, but if the wart reoccurs or multiplies, you will want to see your foot doctor for treatment. You can also choose to have it treated by your doctor if it is very painful or if it is interfering with your daily activities
.
Plantar warts are caused by a form of the human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus enters the skin through tiny cuts, cracked skin, or wet, softened skin. The strains of HPV that cause plantar warts thrive in warm, moist conditions. Therefore, many people can contract the virus by walking barefoot in public locker rooms or around swimming pools.

There are a couple of different methods for treatment including salicylic acid and cryotherapy. Applying a salicylic acid removes layers of the wart a little at a time. Cryotherapy is a method that freezes and kills the wart tissue so that it falls off. This is also done little bits at a time. Dr. Auger may choose to use both salicylic acid and cryotherapy. For warts that reoccur or are not dissolved by salicylic acid or cryotherapy, there are other acids, immune therapy creams, the HPV vaccine, or minor surgery that can help. However, most warts are effectively removed with salicylic acid or cryotherapy.

If left untreated, plantar warts can grow up to an inch in size and can cause a change in the way you walk. If you have a plantar wart that is difficult to treat or is painful, be sure to schedule an appointment with Dr. Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM. To schedule at her West Jordan, UT location, her Salt Lake City, UT location, or her Sandy, UT location, call (801) 619-2170. More information may be found on our website, www.slcpodiatrist.com. 

Dr. Auger Treats Toenail Fungus

Nail fungus can be embarrassing. It can even be painful. With the nice weather coming up soon, sandals and other open-toed shoes are going to make an appearance from the backs of our closets. If you have nail fungus, unfortunately, you may feel uncomfortable wearing sandals. Dr. Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM wants her patients to understand what nail fungus is, how it comes about, and how to avoid it. Dr. Auger treats patients with toenail fungus in her West Jordan, UT, Salt Lake City, UT, and Sandy, UT offices.

Nail fungus is a condition that can range in severity. It is often characterized by thickened, yellow nails. The nails may also become misshapen, brittle, ragged, and they can lose their shine. In some cases, a dark color may be present underneath the nail. Nail fungus may also emit an unpleasant smell. In severe cases, the nail will separate from the nail bed.

Dermatophyte fungus, yeasts, and molds are often responsible for toenail fungus. Fungus is often picked up from warm, moist environments like showers. Shoes are also good spots for fungi to grow since they usually do not need sunlight to thrive. Shoes are also often warm and moist from sweating feet.

There are many different types of treatment for toenail fungus; depending on your condition and health. There are oral antifungal medications, medicated nail polishes and creams, and nail removal. Toenails can take about a year to fully grow out; therefore, each type of medication will need to be used diligently to clear up the fungus. Full nail removal is often used in combination with a topical medication.

 In order to avoid toenail fungus, make sure to keep your feet clean and dry. Wear breathable shoes along with socks that absorb sweat well. If you wear boots or other non-breathable shoes every day for work, consider taking them off on breaks to give your shoes and your feet a chance to dry out. Antifungal powder works well inside of shoes to soak up moisture and avoid fungal growth. In addition, wear sandals when showering in public places or walking around public pools.

If you are having difficulty with toenail fungus, be sure to make an appointment with us. Dr. Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM treats toenail fungus in her West Jordan, UT, Salt Lake City, UT, and Sandy, UT locations. To schedule an appointment, call us at (801) 619-2170. For more information, visit our website, www.slcpodiatrist.com.

Plantar Fasciitis: What Is It And What Can Be Done?

You feel it right when you step out of bed in the morning; that sharp pain in your heel that makes it feel like it’s being torn. It is a shocking start to your day. This is often pain caused from plantar fasciitis. Dr. Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM diagnoses and treats patients with plantar fasciitis in her West Jordan, UT, Salt Lake City, UT, and Sandy, UT locations.

The plantar fascia is the stretch of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot; connecting the heel to the toes. Plantar fasciitis causes pain that is usually the worst first thing in the morning or after sitting for a long period of time. When the tissue isn’t used overnight or while sitting down, it tends to tighten. When it is in use, it stretches out; sort of like a rubber band. The pain can also be present after intense activity.

Plantar fasciitis begins with tiny tears or stress on the fascia. They can become irritated and inflamed if not allowed to heal. Certain types of activity can increase the risk for plantar fasciitis like running and dancing. Having very high arches or flat feet can also increase the risk of developing plantar fasciitis. If you do not treat this condition, it can lead to a change in the way you walk. When pain starts in the feet, it travels up to the knees, the hips, the back, and even the neck.

Dr. Auger treats plantar fasciitis so that her patients can move on from the pain and regain a healthy fascia. Most routes of treatment involve physical therapy. Stretching the fascia and the Achilles tendon and strengthening the surrounding muscles will help condition the area. A splint may be suggested to be worn at night for additional stretching. For more help while on your feet, custom orthotics are available. They provide unique support where your specific feet need it.

At home, you should frequently stretch your arches and your Achilles tendons. To reduce pain and inflammation, apply ice packs to the area. You can even use a frozen water bottle to roll under your arch.

Do not let plantar fasciitis keep you from achieving your goals and living your day-to-day life. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM in one of her locations, call us at (801) 619-2170. Dr. Auger is available in West Jordan, UT, Salt Lake City, UT, and Sandy, UT. For more information, visit our website, www.slcpodiatrist.com.

Dr. Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM Heals Ingrown Toenails for Patients in Salt Lake City, and Sandy, UT

If you trim your toenails too short, particularly on the sides of your big toes, you may be setting the bar for an ingrown toenail. Ingrown toenails are a common condition in which the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh. The result is a pain, redness, swelling and, sometimes, an infection. In most cases, these issues won’t heal until the nail is removed. Fortunately, there are various types of treatments for this condition that Dr. Elizabeth E. Auger DPM can recommend to patients.

People with curved or thick nails are most susceptible to ingrown toenails, although anyone can suffer from an ingrown nail as a result of an injury, poorly fitting shoes, or improper grooming of the feet. People with diabetes, vascular problems, or numbness in the toes need to be aggressive in treating and preventing ingrown toenails because they can lead to serious complications, including the risk of losing a limb.

The best way to prevent ingrown toenails is to protect the feet from trauma and to wear shoes and socks with adequate room for the toes. Nails should always be cut straight across with a clean, sharp nail trimmer without tapering or rounding the corners. You should always trim the nails no shorter than the edge of the toe and keep your feet clean and dry at all times.

If you seem to be suffering from an ingrown toenail, don’t suffer any longer and give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about ingrown toenails as well as other conditions we treat, visit www.slcpodiatrist.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM at one of her podiatry practices in the Sandy, UT, area, call 801-619-2170.