Plantar warts are small growths on the soles of the feet caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, which enters the skin through tiny cuts or abrasions. They are commonly found on weight bearing areas, such as the heels or balls of the feet. A plantar wart may appear as a rough, grainy patch with small black dots, which are tiny blood vessels. They can feel painful or tender, especially when walking or standing for long periods, and some may cause a feeling of pressure, like walking on a small pebble. Plantar warts are more common in children and young adults, and they can spread through direct contact with contaminated surfaces like locker rooms or swimming pool areas. A podiatrist can evaluate the lesion to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. Treatments may include topical therapies or minor surgical removal. Early intervention helps reduce discomfort and prevent spreading. If you notice persistent growths on your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Manhattan Footcare. 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 Manhattan and Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle pain is a common condition that can limit mobility and affect daily activities. It refers to discomfort, swelling, or stiffness in or around the ankle joint, and may develop suddenly or over time. Causes of ankle pain include infection within the ankle joint which can lead to redness, warmth, and severe discomfort. Arthritis is another frequent cause resulting in joint inflammation, reduced motion, and ongoing pain. Blockage of blood vessels in the leg can also contribute to ankle pain by limiting circulation and slowing healing. A podiatrist can evaluate the ankle through a detailed exam and diagnostic imaging to determine the underlying cause. Treatment may include medication therapy, supportive devices, or management of circulation issues. If ankle pain is persistent or worsening, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer effective treatment solutions. 

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Manhattan Footcare. Our doctors 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 offices located in Manhattan and Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetic limb salvage focuses on preserving foot structure and function while reducing the risk of wounds and limb loss. In podiatry, the foot is evaluated as a biomechanical system rather than an isolated sore, allowing pressure points, deformity, and joint alignment to be addressed together. A podiatrist can provide wound care, offloading, and monitoring while considering how walking forces affect the toes, midfoot, and ankle. When clinic-based care is not enough, surgery can correct imbalance, remove pressure from high-risk areas, and stabilize unstable joints. Long-term planning is essential for diabetic limb salvage, since changes in foot mechanics can shift pressure and create new problems. Ongoing evaluation helps protect tissue and maintain mobility. For help with foot problems, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Diabetic Limb Salvage

Diabetic limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have a foot ulcer and diabetes, consult with one of our podiatrists from Manhattan Footcare. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Diabetic Limb Salvage?

Diabetic limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot, that has an infected ulcer, from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.

Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Amputation has been found to lead to higher mortality rates. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated. 

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

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, most commonly affecting the big toe. Symptoms include sudden, intense pain, swelling, redness, warmth, and stiffness, often disrupting daily activity and mobility. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, high-purine diets, and certain medical conditions such as kidney disease or high blood pressure. Causes involve an imbalance between uric acid production and elimination, leading to crystal formation in the joints. If left untreated, gout can result in chronic pain and joint damage. A podiatrist can evaluate symptoms, confirm the diagnosis, and develop a personalized treatment plan including medication guidance, lifestyle recommendations, and foot care strategies. If you have pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide a diagnosis and treatment.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Manhattan Footcare. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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