While we deal with many diabetic patients in our office, a very common question we hear is what is the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes? Regardless of what type of diabetes you may have, both mean you should take extra care of your feet. Type 1 diabetes is caused by the body not producing enough insulin. The body starts to attack the cells that produce insulin causing the body to not be able to use the glucose it needs to make energy. Type 1 diabetes is usually a genetic issue that cannot be prevented, only treated.

Type 2 diabetes is caused by the body not being able to use the insulin it has in the correct way. The misuse of insulin is called insulin resistance. Type 2 diabetes account for almost 90% of those who suffer with diabetes. Type 2 diabetes can be reversed, unlike type 1. Some people are able to reverse their condition due to lifestyle and dietary changes.

While there are some differences between the two, both can cause serious issues to the entirety of the body, including the feet. Many people with diabetes end up having toe, foot or leg amputations. The best way to keep that from happening is to monitor blood sugar levels and always check your feet and legs. Any cuts or changes in skin color or texture may be a sign of something more serious. 

            A common issue we face at Advanced Foot and Ankle Care is heel and ankle pain. While both of these can have many causes, there is a common piece of medical equipment we prescribe for both: night splints. A night splint a piece of durable medical equipment that helps stretch the Achilles tendon. The Achilles tendon is the tendon that runs along the back of the heel. Many things can cause this tendon to tighten, a few of those include improper shoes or gait issues.

            Many people who are prescribed a night splint have questions about what they are, how they are used and exactly how they will bring them relief. A night splint is brace like piece of equipment that helps stretch the tightened muscles in the ankle and foot. The duration of use depends on the issues you are having. Some patients are told to wear them for 3 weeks while others may need to wear them for months.

            If you are having ankle or heel pain please give our office a call. We will gladly schedule an appointment and have one of our doctors evaluate you. A night splint may be exactly the thing to give you relief. 

One of our most popular products here at Advanced Foot and Ankle Care is the line of Clarus products. We carry a solution for fungal nails and cream for fungal infections of the skin. While both products are highly popular, the solution for fungal nails is the most sought after. People often ask what makes the Clarus solution different from other over the counter anti-fungal treatments they've tried.

The first difference is in the formula of the Clarus solution. Clarus products use carrier oils that actually break through the barrier of the nail to completely attack the fungus. Many other treatments only lie on top of the nail and do not penetrate into the nail. Carrier oils are oil that are inert and that absorb into our skin, nails and hair very easily. An example of a common carrier oil is olive oil.

The second difference is that Bako, the company behind the Clarus line of products offers a money back guarantee. They feel so confidently that their products will help you like no other product has before. Many people are skeptical of Clarus at first for the very fact that they have tried so many other products and have been let down. After trying Clarus however, they are always happy they took the chance.

Many insurance plans have a deductible. While a deductible is neither a good or bad thing, it can be a little difficult to understand. A deductible is how much you have to pay for medical expenses before your insurance starts to pay. For example, if you have a $1,000 deductible and have a bill that is $800, you will have to pay the whole $800 since your deductible has not been met. If you have another bill after that, let’s say for $700, you would only pay $200 to meet your deductible, and your insurance company would pick up the rest. Deductibles start over at the beginning of the year, but usually stay the same in amount.

Some other useful information you should know is that preventive care is something that you never have to pay for, even if your deductible has not been met. This is thanks to the Affordable Care Act. The best things to do in order to keep a good understanding of your deductible are read everything carefully, talk to your providers about any concerns you may have and if possible enroll in a Health Savings Account or Health Reimbursement Account.

By reading everything about your healthcare plan before you sign up for one, you are less likely to experience any surprises. Always feel free to talk to your healthcare providers about your insurance. They have been dealing with insurance companies just as long, if not longer, than you and have a more in-depth relationship with them. They might be able to answer your questions or guide you in a better direction. Enrolling in a savings account or reimbursement program can help take some of the financial burden of doctors bills off your plate.