Brachymetatarsia

Brachymetatarsia

Brachymetatarsia is a condition where there is one toe shorter than the others. It usually happens with both feet, but some patients only experience the condition in one of their feet. Whether from genetics or because of traumas experienced, there are a number of causes of brachymetatarsia. It can not only be very uncomfortable and difficult to balance properly, but also embarrassing for the patient. This is why we offer a variety of treatments for our patients suffering from it.

Surgery is the best course of action for treating brachymetatarsia permanently here at S.E.T. Footcare. There are other less invasive treatments, such as applying padding to the shoes and offering custom orthotics, but this is only a temporary fix. For a more permanent option to improve the function and appearance of our patients’ feet, we can lengthen the metatarsal that is causing the shortened toe.

Surgery options include callus distraction or a bone graft. The bone graft is done by creating a metatarsal through bones extracted from other parts of the body. This lets us create a bone graft that will elongate the toe. It is a one-stage procedure with a recovery time of around two months. The other procedure has a longer recovery time of up to four months, and is called a callus distraction. This uses a device to gradually lengthen the bone.

Visit Dr. Jeffrey Klein in Waterford, MI to schedule an appointment for your brachymetatarsia.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetic Foot Care

If you have diabetes, you have already been told by your doctor to take good care of your feet. Diabetic foot care is important because diabetes causes high glucose levels which can have a negative effect on your feet in primarily two ways.

First, uncontrolled diabetes can damage the nerves in your feet and legs. When your nerves are damaged, you may not be able to feel heat or cold, or worse pain. That means, if you cut your foot or have a sore on your foot, you may not immediately know it’s there. This lack of feeling is called diabetic neuropathy, and is a complication of diabetes.

Secondly, continued high blood glucose for an extended period of time can result in poor blood flow. When blood flow is poor, sores, wounds, and infections heal more slowly, if at all. If an infection doesn’t heal, it could lead to an amputation. Here at S.E.T. FootCare, Dr. Jeffrey Klein provides exemplary diabetic foot care and treatment options.

We will examine your feet and treat any conditions or problems you are experiencing. Your feet may need treatment if you have nerve damage or improper blood flow, both of which can cause infections. Aside from getting foot care treatment here in Waterford, MI, you should be self-monitoring your diabetes and keeping blood sugar levels under control, being more active, washing your feet daily, trimming your toenails, and always wearing socks and shoes. Call us today to schedule a diabetic foot care appointment so we can examine your feet for any signs of problems.

Vein and Vein Ulcers of the Ankle

Vein and Vein Ulcers of the Ankle

If you have a skin ulcer that is located just above your ankle, it may be a vein ulcer. These types of ulcers cause a swelling and thickening of the skin in this region. Diabetes is a common culprit of these ulcers because they occur from a narrowing of arteries in the leg and poor blood circulation, both of which are common in people with diabetes. Dr. Jeffrey Klein treats vein and vein ulcers of the ankle, whether they are caused by diabetes or other medical conditions.

Here at S.E.T. FootCare, we examine the area above your ankle and inform you whether or not it is a vein ulcer and how best to treat it. In our Waterford, MI office, we provide recommendations for at-home care methods, such as using compression stockings, walking daily, and elevating your legs, as well as medical treatments. Antibiotics may be recommended, as well as a prescribed painkiller for the pain. We urge you to stop smoking and take good care of your skin, as well as follow a healthy diet. Some treatments include a medication to improve your blood circulation, surgery to remove varicose veins and a skin graft for larger ulcers. Call us today (248) 681-6180 to schedule an appointment for your vein and vein ulcers of the ankle.