August 2023

Podiatrists are medical professionals who play a vital role in foot and ankle health. Their primary focus is diagnosing, treating, and preventing various conditions related to the foot and ankle. From routine checkups to complex surgeries, a podiatrist’s responsibilities encompass a variety of tasks. Podiatrists assess patients' foot and ankle health, conduct thorough examinations, and utilize diagnostic tools to identify issues. They provide personalized treatment plans, including medication, physical therapy, orthotics, and surgical interventions when necessary. As experts in their field, podiatrists are dedicated to ensuring optimal foot health and aiding patients in maintaining mobility, comfort, and overall well-being. If you are interested in pursuing the field of podiatry as a profession, it is suggested that you speak with this type of doctor who can help you make an informed decision about this career choice. 

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to 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.

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 offices located in Valatie and Albany, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Within the world of common foot woes, ingrown toenails stand as a painful and bothersome issue that can disrupt daily life. These occur when the edges of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin, leading to inflammation and discomfort. Often stemming from improper nail trimming, wearing tight footwear, or genetic reasons, ingrown toenails can bring about pain, swelling, and possibly infection. Treating this condition involves gentle soaking, proper nail trimming techniques, and wearing comfortable, well-fitting shoes. In cases of infection, consulting a podiatrist is crucial in preventing complications. In more severe instances, surgical intervention may be necessary to provide long lasting relief. By understanding the causes and exploring the range of treatments, individuals can actively engage in preventing ingrown toenails. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is strongly suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you treatment methods that are correct for you. 

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 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.

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 offices located in Valatie and Albany, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Maintaining good circulation is vital for overall health. Symptoms often noticed in the feet include a numbing or tingling sensation and they may feel cold. There are methods that can be implemented that may help to prevent poor circulation naturally. First, stay active and engage in regular exercise to promote blood flow. Avoid sitting or standing for prolonged periods of time, and take short walks or stretch breaks. Maintain a healthy diet, including foods rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients. Quit smoking, as it constricts blood vessels and hinders circulation. Manage stress through relaxation techniques, like meditation or yoga. Opt for compression socks or stockings to improve blood flow in the legs. Keep your body hydrated and avoid excessive alcohol consumption. Ensure proper posture and avoid crossing your legs when sitting. Finally, avoid tight-fitting clothing that can restrict blood flow. If you notice signs of poor circulation in your feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

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 offices located in Valatie and Albany, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel spurs, or osteophytes, are extra bone growths on the heel bone that can cause pain and discomfort. Although only 5% of people with heel spurs experience pain, they can develop from conditions like plantar fasciitis or arthritis, leading to inflammation and pressure on the heel. Exercises can help increase flexibility in the plantar fascia and strengthen foot muscles to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, though they will not make heel spurs go away. Such exercises include the big toe stretch, calf stretches, golf ball rolls, and more. The big toe stretch involves crossing the affected leg over the opposite leg, gently grabbing the big toe between the thumb and index finger, and slowly pulling the big toe upward until a stretch is felt on the bottom of the foot. Calf stretches are done by standing facing a wall with the hands placed on the wall at shoulder height and stepping the injured foot back about 18 inches. The heel should be flat on the ground and the front knee bent forward. Slowly lean forward until a stretch is felt along the back calf. For the golf ball roll, sit in a chair with a golf ball placed under the bare foot and roll it from the ball of the foot to the heel several times. Other treatments for heel spurs include wearing orthotics, night splints, steroid injections, or in severe cases, surgery. If you have a painful heel spur, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment tailored to your needs.

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 one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Care. Our doctors 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 offices located in Valatie and Albany, NY . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Plantar warts are small, rough growths on the sole of the feet caused by HPV, or the human papillomavirus, entering the skin through minor cuts or abrasions. These warts can be painful, especially when walking or standing. They may appear as single growths or in clusters. Over-the-counter treatments, like salicylic acid patches or gels, can be effective in gradually dissolving plantar warts over time. However, some cases are stubborn and necessitate professional intervention. If you or your child have a plantar wart that is painful or will not go away, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment options that might include freezing the wart, laser therapy, or a minor surgical procedure to permanently remove it. 

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Care. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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.