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July 2024

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, and swelling. Causes can include improper nail trimming, wearing tight-fitting shoes, or sustaining foot trauma. If left untreated, ingrown toenails can escalate, causing infection. Bacteria can enter through the broken skin, leading to pus formation and further inflammation. In severe cases, untreated infections may spread beyond the toe, causing cellulitis or even a bone infection. Chronic ingrown toenails can also lead to recurrent pain and discomfort, affecting daily activities. Proper toenail care, including trimming nails straight across and wearing well-fitted shoes, can help to prevent ingrown toenails. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer safe and effective treatment.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. 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 occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

  • Bacterial infections
  • Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
  • Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
  • Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
  • Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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 Ingrown Toenail Care
Tuesday, 23 July 2024 00:00

Managing Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Diabetic foot wounds are a significant concern for individuals managing diabetes, with up to a third of patients developing foot problems during their lifetime. Early signs include dry skin and calluses, which can progress to poorly healing ulcers on the feet or toes. These complications arise from nerve and blood vessel damage that results from high blood sugar levels over a long period. Factors like wearing tight shoes, foot deformities, and thick calluses can increase the risk. This damage reduces the foot's sensitivity to pressure and injuries, leading to unnoticed and untreated wounds that are slow to heal. Preventive measures, such as proper foot care, wearing well-fitting shoes, and avoiding injuries, are essential in reducing the risk of diabetic ulcers. Regular visits to a podiatrist play an essential role in the early detection and management of diabetic foot problems. Podiatrists can provide comprehensive care, including examining the skin, assessing blood flow, and testing nerve sensitivity, which may prevent minor issues from developing into severe complications. If you are suffering from diabetic foot complications, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

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 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.

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 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 Diabetic Foot Care
Tuesday, 16 July 2024 00:00

High Heels and Women’s Foot Problems

High heels are a staple in many women's wardrobes, with about 40 percent wearing them daily. However, the fashionable choice often comes with a painful price. Three quarters of women wearing high heels experience foot pain regularly. The height of the heel and the narrowness of the toe box are the main culprits. High heels often force toes into unnatural positions, that may lead to bunions, which are bumps along the inside of the big toe, and hammertoes, where toes become bent at the middle joint. Over time, these conditions can worsen, causing significant discomfort and permanent changes in foot structure. High heels also can contribute to tight calf muscles, which may result in plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. To avoid these issues, select shoes with a proper fit, ensuring that your toes have adequate space to move. For those already suffering, treatments include toe pads, separators, and in severe cases, surgery. If you are experiencing foot pain from high heels, it may be time to reconsider your footwear choices. For guidance with foot problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or 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.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

  • Ankle Joints
  • Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
  • Balls of the Feet
  • Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
  • Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

  • Corns
  • Calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Morton’s Neuroma
  • Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads 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.

Read more about Why High Heels Are Not Ideal for Healthy Feet

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

Tuesday, 09 July 2024 00:00

Possible Causes of Foot Pain

Foot pain is a common issue that can arise from various causes, impacting daily activities and overall quality of life. The most common causes include plantar fasciitis, which involves inflammation of the tissue running along the bottom of the foot, and arthritis, which affects the joints. Other frequent sources of foot pain are bunions, caused by misalignment of the big toe joint, and hammertoes, where toes bend abnormally. Injuries such as fractures, sprains, and strains also contribute to foot pain, often resulting from accidents or overuse. Additionally, deformities like flat feet or high arches can lead to discomfort by altering the natural distribution of weight across the foot. Conditions such as tendinitis and neuropathy, particularly in individuals with diabetes, can further contribute to foot pain. Treatment varies depending on the cause but typically includes rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and wearing proper footwear. Stretching exercises and orthotic devices can also help alleviate pain. For persistent or severe foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a comprehensive diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Care. Our doctors 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 offices located in Valatie and Albany, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Foot Pain

A broken foot can present with several clear symptoms, and it is vital to identify them for prompt treatment. One of the most telling signs is a sharp, severe pain that often worsens with movement or weight-bearing activities. A sensation of dislocated bones, where the foot feels misaligned or abnormal, is also common. Swelling and bruising typically develop rapidly around the affected area, indicating internal bleeding and inflammation. Visible deformities or an inability to move the foot or toes may also occur, in addition to a pronounced tenderness when touching the injured area. Treatment may include immobilization with a cast, use of crutches, and in severe cases, surgical intervention to realign the broken bones. If you feel you may have broken your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose it and treat it accordingly.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, 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.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

  • Bruising
  • Pain
  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Blue in color
  • Numbness
  • Cold
  • Misshapen
  • Cuts
  • Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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 Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for a Broken Foot
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