Items filtered by date: August 2021

Beating a fungal toenail infection on your own can be a daunting task. The pesky fungus responsible for the infection is hearty, spreads easily to other nails, and won’t go down without a long fight. Making matters worse, even after the fungus is killed, it takes a long time for a healthy nail to grow in. Luckily, podiatrists have plenty of experience and various methods for treating this very common condition. For instance, there are topical and oral prescriptions as well as antifungal medications that are stronger and can be more effective than those sold over the counter. FDA-approved laser treatments—which kill the fungus using a precision beam of light—have become an increasingly popular treatment for toenail infections. Additionally, there are exciting cosmetic procedures available which create a natural-looking nail on top, giving the real nail time to grow back. To join forces and get professional help in defeating your fungal toenail infection, call a podiatrist near you.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Manhattan Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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.

As the main stabilizing structure supporting the arch, the posterior tibial tendon is an important and hard-working tendon. Though with repetition or overuse, this tendon can become injured. This injury can contribute to pain and stress on the arch which can change the gait and even cause the arch to collapse over time. Prescription orthotics that are custom fit to the individual’s feet may be one form of treatment a podiatrist might use to help support and stabilize the arch and correct gait abnormalities. If you have pain on the inside of your foot or ankle, an appointment with a podiatrist is suggested for an accurate diagnosis and evaluation of your condition.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Manhattan Footcare. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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 and ankle needs.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a condition in which blood flow to the lower limbs is inadequate. This typically occurs due to plaque buildup along the artery walls, which causes them to narrow and harden and restricts the amount of blood flow that can travel to the legs. Sometimes, people who have developed PAD do not experience any symptoms. Others however, may notice a tight, aching, or squeezing pain in the calves, leg cramps when walking, weakness, fatigue, and difficulty walking and balancing. When PAD progresses, symptoms like coldness or numbness in the lower limbs, leg and foot pain at rest, and slowly healing wounds may appear. A podiatrist can help you manage PAD and its effects on your feet and ankles. For more information about this condition please consult with a podiatrist. 

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with one of our podiatrists from Manhattan Footcare. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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 can be caused by a variety of factors, with the most common one being a sprain—where the lateral (outside) ligaments of the ankle become overly stretched or torn. Sprains are classified as Grade 1 (ligament has be overly stretched, causing soreness and possibly inflammation), Grade 2 (ligament is partially torn, causing prolonged pain and swelling, and the ankle may be unable to sustain full weight), and Grade 3 (ligament is fully torn, an audible pop could have occurred, pain is severe with bruising and swelling, and the ankle is unable to sustain any weight and is unstable). Because ligaments don’t receive a lot of blood flow, it can take a while for them to heal, and people don’t always seek proper treatment for an ankle sprain. Improperly-healed ankle ligaments can lead to chronic ankle instability or even arthritis in the ankle joint over time. If you believe you have sprained your ankle, or are experiencing any type of ankle pain, it is suggested you contact a podiatrist.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from Manhattan Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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 arthritis is caused by damage to the cartilage, which covers the ends of the bones that make up the ankle joint. Cartilage provides a smooth, cushioned surface for the bones to move along, and when it deteriorates, symptoms like joint pain and stiffness follow. There are several processes that can damage or deteriorate the cartilage in the ankle joint. Major ankle injuries, such as ankle fractures, can greatly increase the risk of developing ankle arthritis. More minor, but repetitive trauma to the joint from sprains or chronic instability can have a similar effect. Improper foot biomechanics from flat feet, high arches, and other deformities, can make the cartilage wear away over time. Rheumatoid arthritis, which is an autoimmune condition, can damage the cartilage through inflammation of the lining of the joint. Gout, pseudogout, and infectious arthritis can also damage the cartilage. If you are suffering from joint stiffness, pain, or reduced mobility in your ankles, please seek the care of a podiatrist.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Manhattan Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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.