Sometimes, it’s not major foot trauma or a complex condition that requires foot surgery to fix. There are nuisances that we also must tend to – the cuts and scrapes of the world that require our attention. From underlying health issues to risks of infection, find out what to look out for from  Carrollton Foot Center .

Cuts and Scrapes

Everyone gets a cut or a scrape now and then, especially when walking barefoot outdoors or experiencing a minor stumble. These are essentially breaks in the skin from contact with rough or sharp objects, and most will heal quickly with basic first aid.

But if a cut or scrape on your foot is slow to heal, looks unusually pale, or shows any signs of redness, warmth, or pus, it could be indicating something else. This might be a sign of poor circulation, perhaps due to conditions like Peripheral Artery Disease, or it could be a crucial early warning for someone with diabetes, as their wounds heal much slower and are prone to serious infection.

Bruises

Bruises form when small blood vessels under the skin break due to direct impact, which causes blood to leak and show as a dark mark. This often happens from stubbing a toe, dropping something heavy on your foot, or a minor fall.

While most bruises on the feet are from trauma, persistent bruising could sometimes hint at an underlying bleeding disorder.

Also, a persistent bruise-like pain on the heel or ball of the foot, often called a stone bruise, can indicate poor cushioning in your shoes or even thinning of the natural fat pads under your foot.

Discolorations

Beyond the typical bruise, changes in your foot’s skin color can be significant. Redness and warmth often signal inflammation or an infection like cellulitis. A bluish or pale tint can indicate poor circulation, perhaps due to Peripheral Artery Disease or Raynaud’s phenomenon. Yellowed or thickened toenails are often the tell-tale sign of a fungal infection.

These are just a few examples. If you see something on your foot that’s a different color than it should be, and you don’t know why, do not hesitate to see a podiatrist.

Puncture Wounds

Stepping on a sharp object is more than just a small gash. These are called puncture wounds, and while they can look small on the surface, they can be quite deep and push bacteria far into the foot.

The biggest danger here is infection, which can be severe if trapped deep within the tissue. Because of this hidden depth, puncture wounds warrant professional attention to ensure proper cleaning and reduce infection risk, especially for those with compromised immune systems or diabetes.

Consult with Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Naghmeh Lilly Khavari, a knowledgeable professional who is dedicated to her patients in Denton, Dallas, and Collin Counties. Dr. Khavari treats a wide range of conditions, from ingrown toenails to foot and ankle injuries. Call Carrollton Foot Center’s office (located in Carrollton, Texas) at (469)-998-3668 to schedule your first appointment today!