Living with foot or ankle pain can make every step a challenge. Whether you've suffered a sudden injury or are dealing with ongoing discomfort, knowing exactly what's wrong is the first step toward relief. At Central Kansas Podiatry Associates, our skilled podiatrist, Dr. Benjamin Weaver, uses state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to identify the precise cause of your foot and ankle problems. Here, he discusses the different types of diagnostic testing available at his trusted Wichita podiatry office.
Advanced Diagnostic Testing at Our Wichita Podiatry Office
The podiatric team at Central Kansas Podiatry Associates combines clinical experience with modern technology to evaluate foot and ankle conditions. We offer in-office diagnostic testing that provides immediate results, allowing us to begin your treatment plan quickly. Our diagnostic capabilities include the following:
Vascular Testing
We use specialized equipment to measure blood flow and identify circulation problems that could affect your foot and ankle health. This vascular testing can help evaluate and diagnose peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and other circulatory issues that can cause problems with your lower extremities. At your appointment, we may use the non-invasive ankle-brachial index (ABI) and toe-brachial index (TBI) tests that compare blood pressure readings in the arms, ankles, and toes to detect blockages or reduced blood flow. The pressure measurements can help locate arterial narrowing or occlusion that may be causing some of your pain.
What to Know About ABI Testing
This test is simple but effective for comparing the blood pressure in your ankles to the blood pressure in your arms. Dr. Weaver uses a blood pressure cuff and a Doppler ultrasound to measure your blood pressure, then calculates the ratio between the two values. This comparison helps us:
- • Detect peripheral artery disease
- • Monitor circulation problems
- • Track treatment effectiveness
- • Assess wound healing potential
What to Know About TBI Testing
The non-invasive "toe-brachial index (TBI)" test measures the blood pressure in a patient's big toe and compares it to the blood pressure in their arm. This provides a ratio that helps diagnose the severity of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in the lower extremities, particularly when other tests like the ankle-brachial index (ABI) might not be accurate due to factors like calcified arteries in diabetic patients. If the patient has a low TBI reading, it indicates poor circulation to the toes, suggesting potential PAD issues.
Digital X-ray Imaging
We use digital X-rays to help provide detailed images of the bones and joints of the foot and ankle. This imaging is helpful for detecting structural abnormalities, fractures, arthritis, and possible deformities. This technology uses less radiation than traditional X-rays while providing clearer images. Additionally, digital X-rays of the feet and ankles can reveal calcifications within arteries, which may indicate advanced vascular disease.
Diagnostic Ultrasound
At Central Kansas Podiatry Associates, we use ultrasound to evaluate soft tissue injuries, such as bursitis, ligament tears, and tendonitis. By providing real-time images through ultrasound, Dr. Weaver can more accurately diagnose foot and ankle injuries and develop targeted treatment plans specifically designed for your condition.
When You Need Diagnostic Testing
Many people put off seeing a podiatrist when they have problems with their feet or ankles. Some aren’t sure where to go to seek treatment; some think that constant foot pain is normal and have simply become accustomed to the discomfort. But constant foot pain isn’t normal, and it’s a sign that something may be seriously wrong.
If you have foot and or ankle pain—perhaps from arthritis or joint pain, a sports injury, or even an ingrown toenail—it’s important to see a podiatrist. If you are experiencing any of the following problems or symptoms, make an appointment with Dr. Weaver at Central Kansas Podiatry Associates:
- Heel pain. Heel pain can be caused by a variety of different foot problems but most often from plantar fasciitis. This condition is an inflammation of a thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. Dr. Weaver will perform an exam to determine the cause of your heel pain and develop a treatment plan.
- Numbness, tingling or swelling. Occasional sore and/or swollen feet are normal—especially if your job requires you to stand all day or you’ve just run a marathon. But sudden pain, swelling, or numbness in your feet for no apparent reason can be a sign of a serious problem, and you should see a podiatrist.
- Athlete’s foot. A common fungal infection, athlete’s foot can often be treated with over-the-counter medications. However, if your athlete’s foot recurs, Dr. Weaver can prescribe more effective solutions to help rid you of this itchy, annoying problem.
- Foot and ankle injuries. When you sprain you’re your ankle or break a foot bone, you may be tempted to call an orthopedist. However, podiatrists often have more experience treating foot and ankle injuries, including sprains, fractures, or overuse injuries.
- Diabetes. Patients with diabetes should see a podiatrist on a regular basis for foot checks and to help decrease the risk of diabetic complications. Those with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are at a much higher risk of poor circulation, nerve damage, ulcers, and infection that can cause serious problems with the feet.
- Ingrown toenails. You may want to remove an ingrown toenail on your own, but it’s safer to have a skilled podiatrist do it. If the nail has become infected or has burrowed deep into the skin, a podiatrist can provide medication and/or numb the area during the removal process.
- Slow-healing wounds. Patients with diabetes often suffer from foot wounds and ulcers that don’t heal quickly. It’s often the case that these patients don’t notice the wounds until they’re infected or at an advanced stage because reduced circulation in their feet decreases sensation and their ability to feel pain. If you have foot wounds that are slow to heal, it’s important to see a podiatrist right away.
Contact Us for Your Foot and Ankle Pain
Your feet play a significant role in your overall health. They keep you moving, help you balance, and affect your posture. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to your feet, treat them well, and get to a podiatrist when you experience problems. This is especially crucial for patients with diabetes. Changes in your feet, such as numbness, swelling, or tingling, can be early signs of conditions of circulatory problems. Foot wounds that don’t heal are another reason to seek help. Being alert to foot pain is key to better health. Read our client testimonials to learn how we’ve helped our patients through leading-edge diagnostic tools and procedures to help maintain their foot health.