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For those who are overweight, losing weight can be an essential part of relieving foot pain.  If you're looking to lose weight, why not try adding a walk into your daily routine? Scenic walking routes abound here in Klamath. You may want to try the dog-friendly walking trail found at Steen Sports Park. If you'd like to enjoy birdwatching while walking, try the Link River Trail, which follows the Link River in Klamath Falls. Additionally, Moore Park includes many walking trails, including those with varied terrain for when you're ready for a challenge. Finally, if you're feeling unmotivated to keep moving, geocaching may be for you. There are over 900 geocaches in the Klamath area, and hunting for them serves as a fun way to keep you moving. If foot pain is preventing you from beginning a walking routine, a visit with our podiatrist, Jeff Merrill DPM FACFAS can help get you moving again.  View of Upper Klamath Lake from a Moore Park Hiking Trail Four Favorite Walking Options in Klamath
More than 30 million Americans are living with diabetes, and peripheral neuropathy, or nerve damage in the feet, is one of the most common—and most serious—complications of the disease. Nerve damage causes burning, tingling, heaviness, or numbness in the feet and affects up to 70 percent of all diabetic patients.  “Neuropathy can be a rather scary aspect of diabetes because patients may not be able to feel pain,” said Jeff Merrill, DPM, a podiatrist at Klamath Falls Foot and Ankle, LLC and a member of the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). “If you can’t feel an injury or sore, it could lead to a serious infection.” People with diabetes have a harder time healing from infections, and even a minor sore or blister could ultimately lead to amputation. Dr. Merrill says it’s important to try to prevent nerve damage before it happens, and to take extra precautions if you do experience symptoms. Podiatrists recommend the following tips to help prevent peripheral neuropathy:
If you do experience diabetic nerve damage, foot care becomes even more critical. “It starts at home with daily checks on your feet,” said Dr. Merrill. “Check your feet for any injuries and for changes to the skin, hair, or even temperature of the skin. If you can’t see your feet well, try propping up a mirror, or ask friends or family for help.” Dr. Merrill recommends patients with peripheral neuropathy never go barefoot because of the risk of injuries. People with peripheral neuropathy should see a podiatrist regularly to help catch any changes in their foot health early. “Regular foot care—both at home and in your podiatrist’s office—is essential to avoid serious complications from diabetes,” Dr. Merrill said. “If you have diabetes, and especially if you have experienced symptoms of nerve damage, it’s critical to make foot health a priority.” Click on the graphic below to download your free peripheral neuropathy PDF fact sheet. Jeff Merrill, DPM is a podiatrist at Klamath Falls Foot and Ankle, LLC in Klamath Falls, Oregon. Call 541-850-6463 or visit www.klamathfallsfootandankle.com to make an appointment. Visit www.apma.org/diabetes to learn more about foot health and diabetic nerve damage.
Dr. Jeff Merrill introduces RevitaDERM 40 Keratolytic Emollient and shares before and after photos from a patient who used it daily for one month. Music: « Summer » from Bensound.com Containing aloe vera, tea tree oil, chamomile, and prescription strength 40% urea, RevitaDERM 40 Keratolytic Emollient exfoliates and hydrates the skin while quickly and effectively removing calluses. It's also safe for diabetics. It comes with a free pumice stone and brush, and is available for purchase in the 4 oz. jar size for $30 at our office. To celebrate Foot Health Awareness Month, we're giving away one jar of RevitaDERM 40 Keratolytic Emollient with included pumice stone and brush. Enter using the Rafflecopter below. One winner will be chosen after this giveaway ends on 4-23-19 at 12 am PST. Winner must pick up their prize at our office in Klamath Falls by 5-23-19. Must be 18 or older to win. Our winner will be contacted by email.  |
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Klamath Falls Foot and Ankle, LLC
Jeff Merrill, DPM, FACFAS 531 S. 6th St. Klamath Falls, OR 97601 Phone: 541-850-6463 Fax: 541-850-5990 |
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