Items filtered by date: November 2018

One of the main reasons blisters on the feet may develop is from friction that may typically come from wearing shoes and socks that are too tight. They appear as a small area filled with fluid, which is a natural protectant of the skin, and will commonly develop as a result of an injury or infection that has occurred. When a blister develops on the foot, pain and discomfort will generally accompany this ailment and can possibly be treated by placing a cover over it while wearing shoes. There may be several additional reasons why blisters may form on the feet. These may include being exposed to freezing temperatures, which may cause frostbite, or the opposite may be true when the skin endures an extreme sunburn. If you have an allergic reaction to an insect bite or to a specific chemical, unsightly blisters may form to protect the skin as the healing process occurs. If you are experiencing blisters on the feet, it is suggested to speak with a podiatrist for information about treatment options.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can 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.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Moriches and Shirley, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A red, tender, and swollen area will appear on the side of the big toe if you are experiencing an ingrown toenail. This uncomfortable condition is typically a result of wearing shoes that fit too tightly, enduring an injury to the toe, or trimming the toenails incorrectly. In more severe cases, there may be an excess of fluid that builds up surrounding the affected area, or the toe could bleed or have pus draining from it. Ingrown toenails develop when the nail grows into the skin on the side of the toe, and pain generally accompanies this ailment. It is suggested to seek treatment as quickly as possible, and this may prevent infection. There are several ways to prevent ingrown toenails from developing, including wearing shoes that fit properly, wearing clean socks, and washing the feet daily. Research has shown that a common treatment method is referred to as a partial nail avulsion, and this involves removing a portion of the infected toenail. If you feel you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is advised to counsel with a podiatrist, so the best treatment option can be determined.

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 and Ankle Care of Moriches. 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 Moriches and Shirley, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Research has shown that the feet of elderly people may develop foot conditions as the aging process occurs. This may be a result of a loss of cushioning that is found in the feet, in addition to changes in the toenails and skin. It’s important to wear shoes that are comfortable and fit properly, which may include eliminating high heels or shoes that have inadequate room for the toes to move about in. Circulation may improve when gentle foot stretches are performed throughout the day, in addition to wearing socks that are not too tight. There are several common ailments that may be prevalent to aging feet, including Athlete’s foot, cracked heels, and the formation of corns and calluses. Many seniors may become afflicted with the uncomfortable condition known as ingrown toenails, which may be a result of the toenails being cut improperly. Please consult with a podiatrist about effective techniques to properly 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 and Ankle Care of Moriches. 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 Moriches and Shirley, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

If you experience pain and discomfort between the third and fourth toes, you may have a condition that is referred to as Morton’s neuroma. The pain originates from tissue that has been affected as a result of a swollen nerve on the bottom of the foot. Research has shown that being involved in specific sports or wearing high heels may play a significant role in the development of this uncomfortable condition. Patients often notice a burning sensation in the ball of the foot. This may intensify as weight is put on the foot, in addition to a numbness or tingling feeling. Relief may be obtained by wearing correct footwear or gently massaging the affected area. If you feel you may have Morton’s neuroma, it’s advised to seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly inform you of correct treatment techniques.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Moriches and Shirley, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.