Items filtered by date: January 2023

Traveling is exciting to most people as it can be relaxing or full of adventure. Either way, there is always a possibility of unforeseen situations, such as injuries, arising. Reducing risk of injury while traveling should therefore be an important goal. Slips and falls are a common accident that can happen while traveling. Consequences may be minor, but they can also be severe. Causes of falls are numerous, such as slipping on a wet pool tile or twisting an ankle and taking a spill. It is important to be aware of surroundings, avoid slippery surfaces, and wear supportive and well-fitting shoes while traveling. If you should fall while traveling, or to obtain more preventative tips, see a podiatrist who can answer your questions as well as diagnose and treat all ankle and foot-related issues.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Manhattan Footcare. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious 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.

Bunions are a bony kind of bump that can develop on the outer side of the big toe or the pinky toe. Bunions have the potential to cause the individual a significant amount of discomfort. Bunions are typically something that patients will want to treat, and there are many ways in which one might go about treating their bunions. For example, an individual with bunions might choose to use the power of foot baths. Sometimes, individuals suffering from bunions can experience some kind of stiffness in their big toes due to the bunion. Immersing the feet in a warm foot bath can significantly help to mitigate feelings of stiffness. If a warm bath for the feet is not possible, then one might substitute a warm foot bath with a steamed towel. It usually helps if the towel is moist as well. If you are suffering from bunions, contact a podiatrist today for an appointment.

If you are suffering from bunions, 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.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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.

Practicing exceptional foot care is crucial for all people, especially for diabetic patients. This consists of examining the soles of the feet daily for existing cuts and scrapes, and using a mirror can be helpful in accomplishing this. Wearing shoes that fit correctly, properly trimming the toenails, and maintaining proper circulation are important methods to implement for optimum foot health. Diabetes is a result of elevated blood sugar levels and may be the result of foods that are eaten. Having healthy eating habits may be instrumental in lowering these levels and controlling diabetes. Two medical conditions that may affect diabetic patients are referred to as loss of protective sensation (LOPS) and peripheral artery disease (PAD). The former occurs when there is a lack of feeling in the feet, and the patient may be unable to feel pressure or pain. The latter condition decreases blood flow to the feet, possibly causing sores and cuts to heal slower. Diabetic patients are strongly suggested to be under the care of a podiatrist who can offer effective management tips for controlling diabetes. 

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 Manhattan Footcare. 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 Manhattan and Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Shopping for footwear can be challenging, because the size of shoe that is right for you may not be a clear-cut number. For that reason, it is imperative that you measure your feet properly. Measuring the feet includes both the length and the width of your foot, because a pair of shoes that fits the length may not fit the width. Most shoe stores have measuring devices. When you stand on your foot, it will expand to give you a more accurate measure. Note also that one foot may be slightly larger than the other. Also, as you get older your foot size may change. More rigid leather and more flexible mesh shoes may fit your foot differently. So at some point, the actual size can become less important than the fit. The height of the heel also can play a part in how the shoe fits. About one-half an inch of space is recommended at the tip of the shoe with a higher heel, because the toes will be pushed forward when you stand. In addition, foot deformities, such as bunions or hammertoes, also play a role in the fit of your shoe. For information about choosing the right size shoe for your feet, please consult a podiatrist.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Manhattan Footcare. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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.

Many elderly people know the importance of maintaining physical mobility, knowing it can affect their ability to walk and complete daily activities. Falling can be common among seniors, possibly resulting in a broken toe or foot, which may happen from a loss of balance and strength. It can also invoke fear of falling, and moving around may be put on the back burner. This can negatively affect social life, in addition to losing the satisfaction of accomplishing a physical task. There are fall prevention methods that can be implemented which can raise confidence levels, and reduce the fear of falling. These can include frequently engaging in a gentle exercise routine that can increase balance and strengthen the body. Many patients find it helps to improve lighting in the household, and installing grab bars can help to find stability that is needed in the shower and toilet areas. Additionally, it is beneficial to have regular physical and eye examinations, which can help to monitor existing medication and eyeglasses. Falling can affect the feet, and it is advised that you speak with a podiatrist who can guide you toward fall prevention techniques.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Manhattan Footcare. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious 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.