March 2018
Monday, 26 March 2018 00:00
I’ve Fallen and Injured My Toe - Have I Broken It?
If you’ve broken your toe, the chances are favorable that your toe endured trauma, generally due to a heavy object falling on it or possibly stubbing it and causing it to jam. The two toes that most often experience a fracture are the pinky and the big toe. This seldom occurs in the other toes because they are protected by the toes next to them. One of the first signs of a broken toe may include pain and swelling, in addition to possible bruising in the affected toe and surrounding area. If the bone appears to be protruding, often occurring after a harsh fall, an X-ray may be necessary to determine the severity of the fracture. Treatment may consist of taping the toe to the one next to it or utilizing a splint for the affected toe. It’s suggested to consult with a podiatrist to learn more about symptoms and treatment options for a broken toe.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What to Know About a Broken Toe
Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- Throbbing pain
- Swelling
- Bruising on the skin and toenail
- The inability to move the toe
- Toe appears crooked or disfigured
- Tingling or numbness in the toe
Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.
Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Valatie and Albany, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 19 March 2018 00:00
The Importance of Caring for Elderly Feet
It’s not unusual for elderly people to experience complications concerning the feet. It’s common for the feet to lose support and cushioning as one ages. Additionally, poor circulation often develops, which may cause any sores on the feet to heal slowly. It’s advisable to wear shoes that are comfortable and have adequate support, and it’s also suggested to avoid shoes that are too tight and that may cause blisters and corns. Trimming the toenails straight across will stop the corners from digging into the skin and may help avoid ingrown toenails. A common foot issue that many elderly people have to contend with is a fungal infection that targets the toes and nails. A diabetic patient must pay extra special attention to the care of the feet. This includes keeping the feet clean by washing them daily in warm water and wearing clean and absorbent socks. Please consider scheduling a consultation with a podiatrist for additional information on how to care for elderly feet.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Care. Our doctors 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 offices located in Valatie and Albany, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Elderly and their Feet Monday, 12 March 2018 00:00
Types of Hammertoe Surgery
If you have a toe that bends at the joint and points up, you may have what is referred to as a hammertoe. In severe cases where this affliction may affect everyday activities, surgery may be a viable option for relief. There are several different types of surgery that can be performed for the removal of one or more hammertoes. One type of surgery that is effective is referred to as a tendon transfer, and this is executed by pulling the tendon across the toe. This results in the toe becoming straighter. This may be beneficial, as it reduces pain and improves the appearance of the toe. Additionally, another type of surgery is known as a joint resection, and this is performed by possibly removing part of the bone and cutting the tendons and ligaments. If you are suffering from this condition, please schedule a consultation with a podiatrist to determine if surgery is appropriate for you.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot Care. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:
- Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
- Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
- Cosmetic reconstruction
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:
- Bunionectomy for painful bunions
- Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
- Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage
Benefits of Surgery
Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.
Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Valatie and Albany, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Foot Surgery Monday, 05 March 2018 00:00
How to Prevent Toenail Fungus
A fungal infection of the toenail is a common condition that many people are afflicted with. It’s prevalent in people who are diabetic or who have compromised immune systems, in addition to enduring any trauma that may have affected the toes. This type of fungus generally lives in moist environments and is typically found on public shower room floors. Some of the symptoms that may be experienced can include the nails becoming thick, yellow or brown, and the nails lifting up, breaking easily. It’s possible to prevent this fungus from invading your toenails by keeping your feet clean and dry, especially in between the toes. Additionally, wearing proper footwear in public showers will also aid in the toes being protected. Maintaining clean and short nails may be beneficial in controlling this condition. Please consider a consultation with a podiatrist for information and treatment options that are correct for you.
For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot Care. Our doctors 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 offices located in Valatie and Albany, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
