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Stages of Blisters
There are many different ways to classify blisters on the feet. For example, sometimes foot blisters are classified by whether they are associated with another condition of the foot or whether they are linked to friction. However, another way to classify blisters on the feet is by assessing the state of the blister’s “roof,” or covering. Specifically, if the roof over the blister is fully covering the blister, then this blister is said to be “roof intact.” However, if the roof becomes slightly torn, then the blister is said to be “roof torn.” At this stage of the blister, infection is a possibility due to the torn roof. Lastly, if the roof has completely fallen off or been ripped off, then this is known as a “deroofed” blister. If you are someone that is prone to developing blisters on the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
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.
What Are the Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot?
Athlete’s foot is a skin infection that is caused by a fungus that lives in moist environments such as locker rooms and shower room floors. The symptoms patients often experience can consist of itching, burning, and cracked skin between the toes, and the bottom of the feet may itch too. Athlete’s foot is contagious, and it is advised to wear water shoes or flip-flops to help prevent the fungus from spreading when visiting the public places mentioned. It can help to keep the toenails short and properly trimmed. Additionally, it is suggested to refrain from sharing shoes, socks, and towels. Washing and drying the feet daily may help to control the symptoms of athlete's foot followed by applying foot powder inside of the shoes. If you have developed this condition, please consult with a podiatrist who can offer you additional preventive methods to avoid getting athlete’s foot.
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.
Cold Weather Professions
Many people have professions that require standing for most of the day. These may include outdoor jobs, and temperatures may become cold. It is important to have knowledge about how to protect your feet from the cold while working, and this is beneficial to maintaining proper circulation. If the feet are not properly protected from the cold, the body will gradually start to ration the blood supply and redistribute it to the heart, lungs, and other organs. When this happens, less blood flow is going to the feet, which may lead to getting frostbite or immersion foot syndrome. Good foot protection from the cold begins with wearing the correct shoe size. It is helpful to measure the feet properly, and this can determine what the right shoe size is. It is suggested that boots or shoes that are worn for the cold weather are made with heavy insulation, in addition to anti-slip soles that are designed for walking on wet or slick surfaces. If your profession involves working outside in cold weather, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist for advice to help you determine what shoes are best for you.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Working on Your Feet
Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.
Positive Changes
Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.
Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.
Eliminate Pain
Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.
Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.
With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.
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.
Determining the Cause of Toe Pain
Toe pain can have many causes, including trauma, bunions, corns, fractures, and gout. Other causes of toe pain include ingrown toenails, hammertoe, arthritis, and improper footwear. Still other causes of toe pain are athlete’s foot, arthritis, and turf toe. Among the symptoms you may experience are a burning feeling or warmth in the joint, difficulty moving the toe, bruising or skin discoloration, and swelling. To find out the exact cause of the pain, a podiatrist can start by taking a history, such as the location of the pain, when it started, the severity of the pain, and the type of pain. Is it a dull, throbbing sensation or an acute, sharp pain? Is the pain constant or does it come and go? Next a visual examination is likely. If a toe is severely bruised, it may indicate that an X-ray or other imaging test is needed to determine the cause. In some cases, as with diabetic patients, runners, or athletes, a more in-depth history and examination may be necessary. Once the cause is determined, a podiatrist can suggest the proper treatment plan for you.
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.
Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?
If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!
Treatment and Prevention of Ingrown Toenails
Having an ingrown toenail is a common cause of toe pain. Most ingrown toenails are located on the big toe, resulting in the nail growing into the flesh surrounding it. This results in redness, swelling, and pain. In some cases, the area can become infected, which causes a discharge and pus to form. Experts recommend a few at-home methods to ease the pain and reduce the chances of infection. First soak the foot in warm, salty water to loosen the surrounding skin. Then thoroughly dry the foot and wear wide or open-toed shoes that do not press on the big toe. To prevent getting an ingrown toenail, it is recommended that your toenail be cut straight across and not too short. If the ingrown toenail has become infected or severely painful, it is a good idea to visit a podiatrist. This foot specialist can take measures to alleviate the pain, with the last resort of removing part or all of the toenail. Pain medication and antibiotics, in cases of infection. can also be prescribed by a podiatrist.
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.
Skin on the Feet
The more you know about the biomechanics of the feet, the more you become better equipped to understand how to care for the feet. One critical component of how the feet function concerns the skin on the feet. The skin on the feet can often become dry for several reasons, as opposed to other areas of the body. Most importantly, the feet tend to have a smaller total amount of oil glands. As a result, the skin on the feet might feel slightly more dry or cracked. Additionally, the skin on the feet may be especially dry or cracked because the feet are more susceptible to the usual wear and tear that comes with walking and running. Undoubtedly, the skin on the feet is unique and requires extra special care. If you are someone who wants to learn more about the feet, contact a podiatrist today.
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.
Biomechanics in Podiatry
Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.
A History of Biomechanics
- Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
- In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.
Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.
Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.
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.
Twisting Your Ankle
A twisted ankle, or an ankle sprain, leads to overstretching or tearing of a ligament around the ankle. Ankle sprains make up 85% of ankle injuries. Such sprains usually occur from a sports injury, walking or running on uneven ground, or wearing high heels. Sprains can recur, so making sure to heal properly from a sprained ankle is important. If an ankle twists suddenly, it can force the foot outside its normal range of motion and place stress on the ligaments. When stretched beyond its normal limits, the ligament can start to tear. Torn ankle ligaments are most likely to occur in those under 30 years of age, regardless of gender. There will be mild to significant pain, swelling, and bruising depending on the severity of the sprain. The ability to walk will also be related to the grade of the sprain incurred. If you are having ankle pain after twisting your ankle, see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment options.
Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
- Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
- Ankle sprains
- Broken ankles
- Achilles tendinitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
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.
Various Types of Corns
A corn is one of the ways the body protects damaged skin against excessive friction. It is a small, hardened area of skin that can form on various areas of the foot. These can include the pinky toe, the soles of the feet, or the top of the toes. A corn that develops on the side of the pinky toe can be painful, and wider shoes may need to be purchased that may help to bring partial relief. Hard corns are found in the above areas and often occurs as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Soft corns can be found between the toes, and are named for the consistent moisture that is found there. If the corn is small, a protective pad can be worn over it which may reduce the pressure from the shoe. Patients who have larger corns are often seen by a podiatrist who can use effective techniques for removal. Please confer with this type of doctor who can guide you toward effective prevention methods.
Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM of New York. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:
- Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
- Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
- Wearing only shoes that offer support
Treating Corns
Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
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.
Symptoms and Causes of Midfoot Neuromas
A neuroma of the foot is a painful condition, also known as a pinched nerve or nerve tumor. It is characterized by pain in the ball of the foot, burning or tingling, and some cramping. The neuroma usually develops between the 3rd and 4th toes, causing difficulty walking for long periods. The cause of neuromas is unclear, but certain factors can be connected to their development. Biomechanical difficulties, such as flat feet and high arches, bring on instability to the toe joints that may lead to a neuroma. Direct trauma to the foot can damage the nerve and cause inflammation and swelling. Wearing high-heeled shoes that squeeze the toes can lead to increased pressure on the nerves near the ball of the foot. Finally, repeated stress on the bottom of the feet can create or aggravate a neuroma. If you are experiencing pain in the toes, tingling and numbness in the ball of the foot, swelling, and pain on the ball of the foot when bearing weight, it may indicate a neuroma. Please consult a podiatrist as soon as possible for a diagnosis and treatment options.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Bunions
- Hammertoes
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Bone Spurs
- Corns
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Ingrown Toenails
- Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
- Flat Feet
- Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
- And more
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
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.
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It's Time for Beautiful Feet
You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.
Symptoms of Erythromelalgia
Various conditions can affect the feet, and erythromelalgia is considered to be a rare foot condition. Common symptoms that are often experienced with this ailment can include burning pain, increased skin temperature, and the affected area may be red. The reason this condition can occur is unknown, despite researchers discovering it may happen from abnormalities in the blood flow. Many patients who are afflicted with erythromelalgia may notice these symptoms gradually appear, and their frequency can increase over time. Patients have found mild relief when their feet are immersed in ice water, or by exposing them to cold air from an air conditioner or fan. People who are experiencing these symptoms are urged to contact a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can effectively diagnose this condition, and prescribe medication for possible relief.
Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. 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.
Rare Foot Conditions
The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist. Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care.
There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:
- Freiberg’s disease
- Kohler’s disease
- Maffucci syndrome
Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp.
Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.
Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking.
A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.
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.
How Can I Prevent Toenail Fungus?
Toenail fungus is undoubtedly an unpleasant, unsightly, and potentially uncomfortable condition that can affect just about anyone. Since this condition can make the nails appear discolored and in bad form, many patients of podiatrists are curious about how they might go about preventing toenail fungus from developing. The good news is that there are several steps that an individual might take to prevent toenail fungus. If a patient uses antifungal sprays or powders, then this might significantly improve the patient’s resistance to developing a toenail fungus. Additionally, when a person properly cares for their nails, this can significantly help protect the nails from becoming infected. This includes properly cutting the nails, and ensuring that they are clean. If you are worried about preventing toenail fungus, you can make an appointment with a podiatrist today. This foot specialist will help you address your problems.
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.
The Importance of Foot Care in Seniors
As one gets older, caring for the feet becomes more and more important. A daily regimen of foot care is recommended by experts in geriatrics. Inspecting the feet for cuts, bruises, and sores is something that should be done every day, either by yourself or by a caregiver. Many older people develop underlying conditions that contribute to foot problems that if ignored can have serious repercussions, including numbness, inability to feel hot and cold temperatures, and increased risk of falling. For this reason, maintaining both a healthy diet and doing low-impact exercises regularly can go a long way to keeping you mobile, independent, and able to carry out daily activities. Wearing supportive shoes with ample cushioning is suggested, and going barefoot is to be avoided if possible. If your feet are in constant pain, if they are numb, or if you have sores that take a long time to heal, it is a good idea to consult a podiatrist.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, 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.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
- Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
- Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
- Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
- Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
- Shoes that don’t fit properly
- Pressure sores
- Loss of circulation in legs & feet
- Edema & swelling of feet and ankles
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
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.
