Legendary golfer John Rahm just missed the US Open for one reason: An infected lesion on the skin of his foot. That’s all it took to take him out of the game, and he was lucky to get that result. Like Rahm’s injury, infections, wounds, or lesions aren’t just a matter of discomfort. They can also significantly impact your health and mobility if left untreated, and at Advanced Foot Care of NJ, we’ve seen firsthand how early intervention makes an enormous difference. The blog below will cover what causes these issues and why you shouldn’t ignore them.

Painful Problems

Infections: Caused by bacteria or fungi, foot infections can cause redness, swelling, and intense throbbing pain. Areas between the toes, the nail bed, and the bottom of the foot are particularly vulnerable.
Lesions: These can be caused by blisters, ulcers, or skin cracks. They can be incredibly painful, especially when walking or putting pressure on the affected area.

Limited Mobility

Stiffness: Infections can cause inflammation that limits flexibility and makes even basic movement difficult.
Balance Issues: Foot ulcers, a type of lesion, can affect nerve function and lead to balance problems, increasing the risk of falls.

Increased Health Risks

Spread of Infection: Left untreated, infections can spread to the bone or bloodstream, leading to severe complications.
Gangrene: In severe cases, untreated infections can lead to tissue death, potentially requiring amputation.
Delayed Wound Healing: People with certain medical conditions, like diabetes, can experience delayed wound healing, further complicating recovery from infections and lesions.

Diabetes Dilemmas

Diabetes can significantly complicate foot problems. Reduced blood flow and nerve damage in the feet can make it difficult to detect injuries or infections. Additionally, diabetes can slow down the body’s healing process, making it harder for wounds to close.

The Bottom Line

Don’t wait for foot pain or discomfort to worsen! Regularly inspect your feet for any signs of infection or lesions, and see a podiatrist for prompt diagnosis and treatment.

At Advanced Foot Care of NJ, LLC, our doctor and staff look forward to resolving all of your family’s podiatric healthcare needs. We proudly serve the communities of Little Falls, Cedar Grove, Verona, Stoney Road, Sandy Hill, Albion Place, and Great Notch. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!