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Five Tips for Everyday Foot Care
As the foundation of your body, your feet play an important role in helping you go about your day. But despite their importance, we often neglect our feet, increasing our risk of developing various foot problems. Taking small steps every day to care for your feet can help keep them healthy. Wearing comfortable, properly fitted shoes can help prevent problems such as hammertoes, corns, calluses, blisters, ingrown toenails, and general foot pain. Wearing socks can keep excess moisture off your feet, and pad the foot, preventing excess wear and tear. Taking walks regularly helps strengthen the muscles of the feet. Finally, washing and drying the feet thoroughly can help prevent foot odor and fungal infections, while moisturizing the feet can prevent dry and cracked heels. For more information about everyday foot care, please consult with a podiatrist.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Everyday Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.
It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
What to Do if You Get a Foot Blister
Blisters are fluid-filled pockets of skin that can develop on the feet, typically due to friction from your shoes rubbing against your skin. If you develop a foot blister, there are several things that you should do to help the blister heal. Do not remove the overlying skin of the blister. This bit of raised skin protects the area underneath it, and removing it could expose the underlying skin to infections and lead to increased pain. Leaving the blister alone, rather than popping or draining it, will also prevent infection and help it heal faster. If the blister has torn or popped on its own, thoroughly disinfect the area and cover it with a dressing. If you have a blister on your foot that is not healing, or one that is causing you severe pain or appears to be infected, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for treatment.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.
What Are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
How Do Blisters Form?
Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.
Prevention & Treatment
It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Athletes and Flat Feet
The medical condition that is known as flat feet is noticeable while standing on the floor, and is generally caused by genetic factors. Some people can live with flat feet and have no issues or pain arise, but many athletes affected by this ailment can result in serious injury if not prepared for. The arch acts similar to shock absorbers, and can help in pushing off when walking and running. Patients who are afflicted with flat feet may feel pain and discomfort while participating in sporting activities, which may be caused by loose tendons. Additionally, these patients may have difficulty standing for extended periods of time, and may experience pain in other areas of the body, including the feet, knees, hips, and lower back. If you have flat feet, please consult with a podiatrist who can determine the right treatment for you.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms
- Pain around the heel or arch area
- Trouble standing on the tip toe
- Swelling around the inside of the ankle
- Flat look to one or both feet
- Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?
Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.
Stress Fractures Occur Gradually
The condition that is known as a stress fracture can often affect the feet. It generally occurs gradually and can happen as a result of repetitive stress on the bones of the feet. Some of the symptoms that are often associated with this ailment can include weakness in the affected area, and the foot may appear to be bruised and swollen. If symptoms are felt that may be indicative of a stress fracture, it is beneficial if any high-impact activity is temporarily ceased until the foot has completely healed. If you are experiencing signs of a stress fracture, and would like additional information about how to treat it, please consult with a podiatrist.
Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.
How Are They Caused?
Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon. Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.
Risk Factors
- Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
- Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
- Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
- Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
- Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures
Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Preventing Heel Spur Pain
Heel spurs are buildups of calcium on the heel bone that can irritate the tissues of the heel, causing pain. There are several things that you can do to prevent heel spur pain. Make sure that you wear properly-fitting, supportive shoes that your feet can move freely in, and avoid worn out shoes that do not adequately support your feet. Maintain a healthy weight in order to put less stress on your feet. Make sure that you give yourself enough time to rest and recover following intense workouts. If you are experiencing heel pain, you may want to look into wearing insoles designed for heel pain. For more information about heel spurs and how to treat them, consult with a podiatrist today.
Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.
Heels Spurs
Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.
Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.
Pain
The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.
Treatments
There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
What Type of Foot Conditions Can Result From Wearing Flip Flops?
Flip flops are a popular type of shoe that is worn in the summer months. Despite the simplicity of wearing these types of shoes, it is thought that they may cause harm to the feet. The Achilles tendon may become sore as a result of the little or no arch support offered by flip flops. Some patients may notice blisters forming between the toes where the thong, which helps to keep the shoe on the foot, rubs against the skin. People who decide to wear flip flops may benefit from choosing shoes that are designed with supportive materials, as this may help to reduce the risk of getting blisters and calluses. If you would like additional information about what type of flip flops to purchase, please consult with a podiatrist.
Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
Flip-Flops and Feet
Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.
When Are They Okay to Wear?
Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.
Why Are They Bad for My Feet?
These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.
More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet
- They Slow You Down
- May Cause Blisters and Calluses
- Expose Your Feet to Bacteria
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Several Reasons Why Gout Develops
A painful foot condition known as gout develops as a result of excess uric acid in the blood. It typically affects the joints of the big toe, and can occur for a variety of reasons. These reasons include genetic factors, eating foods with large amounts of purines, and drinking sugary beverages. In addition, pre-existing medical conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or kidney disease, may contribute significantly to the onset of gout. Gout is considered to be a form of arthritis and generally affects more men than women. Common symptoms of this ailment include severe pain and discomfort, swelling, and warmth in the affected area. Mild relief may be found when anti-inflammatory medication is taken. Incorporating healthy habits into your daily routine has also been found to be beneficial. If you are experiencing gout symptoms, it is strongly recommended that you seek the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
A Stretch for the Toes
When performing foot stretches, we often neglect stretching the toes. However, stretching the toes is very important, as bending the toes down from the knuckles stretches not only the toes but also the tighter muscles along the top of the foot, and the arch muscles along the sole of the foot. To perform this simple toe stretch, sit down and then place your fingers under the sole of the foot and place your thumbs on top of the toes. Pull back under the ball of the foot and stretch out the toes away from the foot while using your thumbs to bend the toes downwards at the knuckles of the foot. Hold this stretch for several seconds and repeat on the opposite foot. For more information about stretches that you can do to improve your foot health, please consult with a podiatrist.
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Stretching the Feet
Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.
Great ways to stretch your feet:
- Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
- Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
- Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle
Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked
Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.
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What Issues Do Podiatrists Treat?
A podiatrist is a medical specialist who focuses on problems in the feet and ankles. Podiatrists perform surgery, reset broken bones, and prescribe medications in order to treat a variety of problems. These can include fractures, sprains, bunions, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, infected nails, arthritis in the feet, and heel pain. Because the feet are made up of a complex system of bones, tendons and ligaments, it is important to visit a podiatrist if you are experiencing issues with foot pain, warts, cracks and cuts in the skin, or thick, discolored toenails. Upon your visit, a podiatrist will be able to provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan for your particular situation.
If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Podiatrist?
Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.
Podiatric Treatment
A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:
- Physical therapy
- Drugs
- Orthotic inserts or soles
- Surgery on lower extremity fractures
A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Possible Causes of Hammertoe
It can be difficult to wear shoes comfortably when suffering from a hammertoe. There are several reasons that the middle toes can bend downward at the joints and resemble a hammer. These consist of genetic factors, arthritic conditions, or from an injury that may have occurred. Additional foot conditions may develop, including corns and calluses forming on top of the toes. These can be the result of consistent friction that can come from walking or running. Many patients find mild relief when larger shoes are purchased, and it may help to cover the top of the toes with a protective pad. If you notice the beginning signs of hammertoe, it is strongly recommended that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.
Hammertoe
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.
Symptoms
- Pain in the affected toes
- Development of corns or calluses due to friction
- Inflammation
- Redness
- Contracture of the toes
Causes
Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible
Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur
Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe
Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe
Treatment
Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it
Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used
Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
What Can Cause Achilles Tendon Pain?
There are multiple conditions that can cause pain in the Achilles tendon, a tough band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Achilles tendonitis is an inflammation of the tendon, and tends to have a quick onset and pain that may last up to six weeks. Achilles tendinosis is a degeneration of the tendon and is noninflammatory. It is often caused by overuse. Paratenonitis is an inflammation of the tissue that surrounds the Achilles tendon. Insertional Achilles tendinopathy is the inflammation and subsequent degeneration of tendon fibers that insert on the back of the heel bone. If you are experiencing pain at the back of the ankle or in the lower calf, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
- Inflammation
- Dull to severe pain
- Increased blood flow to the tendon
- Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
- Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
- Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Possible Symptoms of Neuropathy
The peripheral nerves control several responses in the body, including the sense of touch, muscle strength, and the ability to feel pain. Neuropathy indicates a loss of sensation in the feet and fingers, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. It can occur as a result of existing medical conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease. Additionally, excessive alcohol use and vitamin deficiency may lead to developing neuropathy. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this condition can be a loss of balance, and many patients can experience shooting pain in the limbs. Research has indicated that it may be beneficial to incorporate healthy eating habits into your daily regimen, and it may help to perform simple exercises that can increase muscle strength. If your feet are numb, it is strongly recommended that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat neuropathy.
Neuropathy
Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.
What Is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.
Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:
- Numbness
- Sensation loss
- Prickling and tingling sensations
- Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
- Muscle weakness
Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.
Treatment
To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.
Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
