Foot Treatments and Foot Care

Orthotics are used to control foot function, support the feet, reduce pressure areas, and absorb shock. Insurance plans vary on coverage of these appliances, and a doctor's letter is often required to claim them as a medical necessity.

Many foot conditions—especially those that are unresponsive to conservative care—may require surgical intervention. Minor procedures such as nail surgery, wart removal, and soft tissue procedures may be performed in our office for your convenience.

Other conditions may require outpatient surgery at accredited facilities in the area, such as hospitals or surgery centers. Outpatient surgery allows us to utilize special equipment, sterile environments, and assistance by trained professionals such as anesthesiologists and surgical technicians.

Dr. Sink is board certified in podiatric surgery and has surgical and admitting privileges at the following locations: Silver Cross Hospital in Joliet, Illinois; Provena Saint Joseph Medical Center in Joliet, Illinois; and Ingall's Same Day Surgery Center in Tinley Park, Illinois.

Diabetic patients have special podiatric requirements. Diabetes is a multi-organ disease that affects many areas of the body, including the cardio, neurological, renal, retinal, dermal, and podiatric regions. For this reason, quality diabetic foot care is paramount.
 
Loss of feeling in the feet increases the chance of injury. Even minor injuries that go unnoticed can evolve into more severe and complicated ailments. Additionally, circulatory disease can affect healing, making it more difficult to recover from even the most basic injuries.
 
Diabetes causes dryness and loss of elasticity in the skin. The skin protects the body, and broken skin can allow bacteria, fungus, and viral infections to invade your system. Ill-fitting shoes can cause blisters and lead to ulcerations or open sores; infected ulcerations can even lead to amputations in some cases.

Routine foot care may help to prevent skin breakdown and problems. Trimming thick nails, removing calluses, and periodic visits to a podiatrist to assess any changes in circulation and sensation all significantly reduce the chances of infection, hospitalization, and surgery.
 
Patients with diabetes are often fitted with diabetic shoes that are deeper and have special inserts to protect pressure points. Our office has shoes in many appealing styles and colors, so feel free to visit us at any time to receive a fitting.