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 care 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, 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.

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 care 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 care needs.