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Thick Toenails and Toenail Fungus
Thick toenails are often a sign of toenail fungus, a common infection caused by fungi thriving in warm, moist environments like sweaty shoes or public pool areas. The infection usually begins with a small discoloration that gradually spreads, causing the nail to thicken and become brittle. Symptoms include yellowing or whitening of the nail, crumbling edges, and an unpleasant odor. The thickened nail may become painful or difficult to trim, and, in severe cases, it can separate from the nail bed. A podiatrist can diagnose toenail fungus by examining the nail and may take a small sample for laboratory testing to confirm the infection. Treatment options include topical antifungal medications or oral antifungals. In severe cases, removal of the affected nail may be necessary. If you have developed toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.
For more information about treatment, 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.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.
Antifungals & Deterrence
Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.
Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.
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.
Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?
Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.
Foot Problems in Pregnancy
During pregnancy, many women experience foot problems due to changes in weight, hormones, and circulation. One common issue is swelling in the feet and ankles, caused by fluid buildup and pressure from the growing uterus. Hormonal changes can loosen ligaments in the feet, sometimes causing the arches to fall and leading to flat feet or overpronation, which means the foot rolls inward when walking. This can cause pain in the arches or heels. Weight gain during pregnancy also increases pressure on the feet, often resulting in plantar fasciitis, a condition where the band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes irritated. Additionally, some women notice toenail changes, such as ridges or discoloration, and even an increased shoe size due to foot structure changes. A podiatrist can help relieve discomfort, address structural changes, and prevent more serious complications by recommending professional care options. If you are experiencing foot pain during pregnancy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate care.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
- Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
- Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
- Wear shoes with good arch support
- Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
- Elevate feet if you experience swelling
- Massage your feet
- Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
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.
Caring for Sore and Tired Toes
Persistent toe discomfort can make even simple movements difficult. Wearing tight shoes, repetitive pressure, or underlying joint issues often lead to pain, swelling, or stiffness in the toes. Gently stretching the feet and choosing footwear with enough room for your toes can reduce irritation. Padding or silicone toe separators may ease friction and support natural alignment. Conditions such as hammertoes, arthritis, or nerve irritation may also be involved and require more specific care. Early attention helps prevent worsening of symptoms. If pain does not improve or begins to affect how you walk, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a complete evaluation and personalized treatment.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. 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 Causes Toe Pain?
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Trauma
- Sports injury
- Wearing shoes that are too tight
- Arthritis
- Gout
- Corns and calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Blisters
- Ingrown toenails
- Sprains
- Fractures (broken bones)
- Dislocations
When to See a Podiatrist
- Severe pain
- Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
- Signs of infection
- Continued swelling
- Pain that prevents walking
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
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.
Early Intervention for Poor Foot Circulation
Poor foot circulation occurs when blood flow to the feet is reduced, often leading to coldness, numbness, cramping, or skin discoloration. It can result from underlying conditions, including peripheral artery disease, diabetes, or blood clots. Contributing risk factors include smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and a sedentary lifestyle. A podiatrist can help identify poor circulation through clinical exams and noninvasive testing. This type of doctor can provide guidance on lifestyle changes, monitor for signs of tissue damage, and offer treatment options to improve vascular health. If you have foot problems related to poor circulation, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer appropriate relief tips, and help you to manage this serious condition.
While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM of New York. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Poor Circulation in the Feet
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.
Symptoms
Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
- Pain
- Muscle Cramps
Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.
As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication.
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.
What to Look for in Choosing the Right Running Shoes
Selecting the right running shoes is essential for comfort, performance, and injury prevention. Traditional running shoes are designed for roads and tracks, while trail running shoes offer grip and protection on uneven terrain. Shoe selection should be based on gait and arch type. Neutral running shoes work well for those with a balanced gait, while stability shoes support mild overpronation. Motion control shoes are best for significant overpronation. Carbon plated shoes are designed for speed and efficiency in advanced runners. A podiatrist can assess foot structure and gait mechanics to guide proper shoe choice. If you are unsure which running shoes are right for you, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for expert advice and personalized recommendations.
If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, 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.
Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type
To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.
- Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
- Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
- Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.
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.
Causes and Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot
Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, particularly between the toes. It thrives in warm, moist environments such as locker rooms, communal showers, and sweaty shoes. The condition is caused by fungi that grow on the skin and spread through direct contact or contaminated surfaces. Symptoms often include itching, burning, and peeling or cracked skin. In some cases, redness, scaling, and blisters may also appear. The infection can spread to the soles of the feet or even to the hands, if left untreated. Wearing damp socks or tight footwear increases the risk of developing athlete's foot. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.
Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.
What Is Athlete’s Foot?
Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.
Prevention
The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:
- Thoroughly washing and drying feet
- Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
- Using shower shoes in public showers
- Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
- Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot
Symptoms
Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:
- Redness
- Burning
- Itching
- Scaly and peeling skin
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.
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.
When Nerves Start to Fail the Feet
Diabetic neuropathy is a nerve condition that affects many people with diabetes, often starting in the feet. It develops slowly, causing numbness, tingling or burning that may feel worse at night. Because the nerves are damaged, it becomes harder to feel injuries, heat, or pressure. This loss of sensation puts the feet at greater risk for cuts, blisters, and infections that can go unnoticed and untreated. Over time, even small problems can lead to serious complications. Good blood sugar control, daily foot checks, and wearing supportive footwear can help manage symptoms and prevent injury. Some people also benefit from medication to ease nerve discomfort. If your feet feel different or you have diabetes and notice changes in sensation, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, 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.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
- Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
- Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
- Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
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.
Benefits of Using Walking Sticks
Using walking sticks can offer important support for people who experience foot, toe, or ankle discomfort during movement. Walking sticks help distribute weight more evenly across the lower body, reducing pressure on painful or unstable areas of the feet and ankles. They can also provide additional stability, which makes it easier to maintain balance and reduces the risk of falls. Walking sticks encourage a more upright posture that leads to better alignment of the feet and ankles while walking. For people recovering from foot or ankle injuries, or managing conditions that cause instability or weakness, a podiatrist may recommend incorporating walking sticks into a treatment plan. By lessening the weight load on affected joints, walking sticks can ease discomfort and promote a more confident, natural stride. Selecting a properly sized walking stick and using it correctly are important steps in preventing further strain. If you experience foot pain when walking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for guidance on using walking sticks.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, 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.
Exercise for Your Feet
Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.
Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual.
Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.
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.
More...
Understanding Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, most commonly affecting the big toe. This condition can be caused by improper nail trimming, wearing tight shoes, injury, or genetic factors. People with curved or thick nails may be more prone to developing ingrown toenails. Symptoms include redness, swelling, pain along the nail edge, and sometimes infection with pus or drainage. The area can feel tender, sore, or even throb, making walking or wearing shoes uncomfortable. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the condition and provide relief. Treatment options include gently lifting the nail, removing part of the nail, or, in recurrent cases, performing a minor procedure to prevent the nail from growing back improperly. They may also recommend proper foot care techniques and footwear changes to prevent future issues. If you have an ingrown toenail, is suggested that you schedule an appointment to see a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.
Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, 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.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.
Causes
- Improper toenail trimming
- Genetics
- Improper shoe fitting
- Injury from pedicures or nail picking
- Abnormal gait
- Poor hygiene
You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.
Symptoms
Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.
Treatment
Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
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.
Common Causes of Second Toe Pain
Second toe pain can result from several underlying conditions that place stress on the front of the foot. One frequent cause is capsulitis, which is the inflammation of the ligament capsule at the base of the second toe. This condition often leads to pain, swelling, and a sensation of instability. Bunions, which form at the base of the big toe, can also contribute by shifting pressure toward the second toe, causing discomfort and alignment changes. Another potential cause is metatarsalgia, a condition marked by inflammation and pain in the ball of the foot due to increased pressure on the metatarsal bones. If you have second toe pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer relief and management tips.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. 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 Causes Toe Pain?
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Trauma
- Sports injury
- Wearing shoes that are too tight
- Arthritis
- Gout
- Corns and calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Blisters
- Ingrown toenails
- Sprains
- Fractures (broken bones)
- Dislocations
When to See a Podiatrist
- Severe pain
- Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
- Signs of infection
- Continued swelling
- Pain that prevents walking
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
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.
Types of Toe Fractures
Toe fractures usually result from direct trauma, such as stubbing the toe or dropping something on the foot. The most frequently affected areas are the lesser toes, especially the part of the toe closest to the rest of the foot. Types of toe fractures include simple fractures, where the bone remains intact under the skin, and compound fractures, where the bone breaks through the skin and may lead to infection. Avulsion fractures occur when a tendon or ligament pulls a piece of bone away, while comminuted fractures involve the bone shattering into multiple fragments. Intra-articular fractures extend into the joint and may affect long-term toe mobility, and dislocation fractures combine a bone break with joint misalignment. A podiatrist can assess the injury using imaging such as X-rays to determine the type of fracture and the degree of bone displacement. Treatment may involve immobilization with a cast or walking boot, or in more severe cases, surgery to realign and secure the bones. If you have broken or severely bruised your toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.
Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is a Broken Toe?
A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- Swelling
- Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
- Stiffness
- Nail Injury
Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.
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.
