Possible Cure for Type 1 Diabetes

   Spanish researchers reported last week that they have been able to cure Type 1 diabetes symptoms in dogs using gene therapy. http://www.the-scientist.com/?articles.view/articleNo/34394/title/Dogs-Cured-of-Type-1-Diabetes/

While the canine example has not yet been translated to a human reversal of symptoms, this is a huge breakthrough. According to the most recent U.S. Center for Disease Control data, diabetes (types 1 and 2) affect 25.8 million Americans. http://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/pubs/pdf/ndfs_2011.pdf.

Diabetes affects many parts of the body and your feet are no exception. Diabetics must constantly monitor their feet or they risk serious consequences, including amputation. Even a small blister can cause a lot of damage. Diabetes decreases blood flow, so injuries are slow to heal. If your wound is not healing, it is at risk for infection and infections spread quickly in diabetic patients. If you have diabetes, you should inspect your feet every day. Look for puncture wounds, bruises, pressure areas, redness, warmth, blisters, ulcers, scratches, cuts and nail problems. Ask someone to help you, or use a mirror and check your feet yourself.

If you notice any of these problems, contact your Austin Podiatrist, Dr. JeffLaMour at (512) 451-3668 and schedule an appointment today.  Appointments are often available the same day. For more information on caring for diabetic feet, visit our website at www.drjefflamour.com.

 

Jeff LaMour, DPM, PA

 

Family Foot & Ankle Clinic

 

(512) 451-3668

Pau Gasol Ruptures Plantar Fascia

Pau Gasol, the Los Angeles Lakers’ Forward, suffered a plantar fascia rupture on Tuesday night during the game against Brooklyn. The plantar fascia is a band of tissue that connects the forefoot to the heel. Injuries to the plantar fascia are one of the most common ailments of the foot. Plantar fasciitis, a strain of the plantar fascia, is much more common than a plantar fascial rupture. Ruptures typically occur when the ball of the foot is forced in an upward direction relative to the heel. In sports this can occur with any events associated with jumping. It is also seen in baseball occasionally when a base runner catches the front of his foot while rounding the bases. It is not uncommon to actually hear an audible pop.

The treatment for a plantar fascia tear is typically 3 weeks of non-weight bearing immobilization. This will be followed by around three weeks of weight bearing in a protective boot. At around six weeks the patient is typically allowed to bear weight in a well-supported shoe. Orthotics, or arch supports, are beneficial. Physical therapy is initiated early on and carried through until the patient is back to normal activities. Physical therapy often includes ultrasound, deep tissue massage and electrotherapy. It is aimed at increasing blood flow to the area and decreasing inflammation.

Primary surgical repair of the plantar fascia is controversial with little data to support this treatment. Therefore, I would not expect to see Pau Gasol back on the court for at least eight weeks.

If you are experiencing any type of heel pain, make an appointment with your Austin podiatrist today.  Waiting to treat heel pain can prolong healing time and may increase the likelihood of a prolonged recovery.  Contact Dr. Jeff LaMour for an immediate appointment.