Diabetic patients are at a greater risk for foot problems from two common complications. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy causes nerve damage that can reduce feeling in the feet, making it hard to detect injuries. Peripheral artery disease affects circulation by narrowing the arteries, which limits blood flow to the lower limbs and slows healing. These two issues combined can lead to infections, foot ulcers, or tissue death. In severe cases, surgery may be required, including loss of limb. To avoid such dire remedies, a diabetic foot exam from a podiatrist is important. This foot doctor can check for warning signs, including loss of sensation, changes in skin, poor blood flow, or bone deformities. The exam may include simple tests like a monofilament check for touch sensitivity, a tuning fork to test vibration sense, or a Doppler ultrasound to assess blood flow. Early detection helps avoid serious outcomes. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition. 

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 Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. 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 office located in Co-Op City, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel spurs are small calcium deposits that build up on the heel bone over time. They form where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel, and they are often the result of repeated strain rather than a single injury. This pulling force is why heel spurs are called traction spurs. The constant tension from walking, running, or standing for long periods of time creates stress at the connection point. In response, the body lays down extra bone to protect the area. This extra growth is not always painful, but when it is, it can feel like a sharp stab with each step. Supportive shoes, rest, stretching, and custom orthotics can help reduce discomfort and prevent further damage. If you think a heel spur is causing your pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Co-Op City, NY . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Lisfranc injuries result if bones in the midfoot are broken or ligaments that support the midfoot are torn. The midfoot is key to foot stability and arch support. Injuries can result from trauma, such as a fall, car accident, or sports injury, even something as simple as twisting the foot awkwardly. Although rare, Lisfranc injuries are often mistaken for a simple sprain. Symptoms include swelling, bruising on the top and bottom of the foot, pain while standing or walking, and difficulty bearing weight. The foot may appear misaligned or feel unstable. Left untreated, a Lisfranc injury can lead to chronic pain, arthritis, and long-term disability. A podiatrist can diagnose a Lisfranc injury through a physical exam and imaging tests like X-rays, MRI or CT scans. Treatment depends on severity and may include rest, immobilization with a cast or boot, targeted exercises, or surgical repair to realign and stabilize the bones. If you think you may have this condition,  it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. 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 office located in Co-Op City, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

As people age, they often experience a variety of foot problems that can affect mobility and comfort. Bunions are a common issue, where the joint at the base of the big toe becomes enlarged and misaligned, causing pain and difficulty with footwear. Hammertoes develop when one or more toes become bent at the middle joint, often leading to discomfort and pressure in shoes. Corns, which are thickened areas of skin caused by repeated friction, can also become painful and make walking difficult. Older adults may be more susceptible to athlete’s foot, a fungal infection that causes itching and burning between the toes. Toenail fungus is another frequent concern, leading to thickened, discolored nails that are difficult to manage. If you are elderly and have developed foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule routine visits to a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and help you to monitor your foot health.

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 Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. 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 office located in Co-Op City, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Edema is a condition characterized by the buildup of excess fluid in the body’s tissues, leading to swelling. When it affects the feet and ankles, it often causes them to appear puffy, feel tight, and sometimes become uncomfortable or tender to the touch. This swelling may worsen after long periods of standing or sitting and can make it difficult to wear shoes comfortably. Common causes include poor circulation, heart or kidney conditions, pregnancy, or certain medications. Edema may also result from injuries or inflammation, and the feet and ankles are especially vulnerable due to their position on the body and the effects of gravity. If your feet and ankles have become swollen, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Co-Op City, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Ingrown toenails can be treated in several ways, but two common approaches are the minimally invasive nail fixator and the more traditional Winograd technique. A nail fixator is a non-surgical device placed on the surface of the toenail to gently correct its curvature over time. It allows the nail to grow properly without digging into the skin, with little to no discomfort or downtime. In contrast, the Winograd procedure involves surgically removing a portion of the toenail and the surrounding tissue. While effective, it requires healing time and carries a higher risk of postoperative pain or infection. Nail fixators are often preferred for milder cases for patients who wish to avoid surgery. If you are experiencing recurring ingrown toenails and want to understand your treatment options, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for further discussion and appropriate treatment.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Co-Op City, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Nongenital cutaneous warts, often found on the feet and toes, are caused by strains of the human papillomavirus, or HPV. These warts may appear as rough, thickened areas and sometimes grow inward due to pressure from walking. Treatment depends on the location, size, and persistence of the wart. Topical salicylic acid can help in mild cases by gradually peeling away layers of the wart. Cryotherapy, which uses liquid nitrogen to freeze the wart, is a common in-office procedure. Other methods include laser therapy, chemical treatments, or immune-based therapies to stimulate the body’s natural defense. In some cases, a minor surgical procedure may be required to remove deeply rooted or stubborn warts. Avoiding barefoot walking in public areas can help prevent future infections. If you have a persistent wart on your foot that is painful or not responding to treatment, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. 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 office located in Co-Op City, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pressure ulcers develop when prolonged pressure cuts off blood flow to the skin, often in people with limited mobility or underlying health conditions. These wounds can be painful, slow to heal, and prone to infection if not properly managed. Treatment begins by relieving pressure on the area. This might involve special cushions, offloading boots, or frequent repositioning. Keeping the skin clean and moisturized helps prevent further breakdown. A podiatrist may use dressings designed to promote healing and protect against bacteria. In more advanced cases, debridement or advanced wound therapies may be needed. Managing diabetes or circulation issues is also key to recovery. With consistent care, many pressure ulcers can heal and be prevented from returning. If you or a loved one has a sore on the heel that is not improving, it is suggested that you seek help from a podiatrist as quickly as possible.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Co-Op City, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.