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pedal

January 2019

Monday, 28 January 2019 00:00

Poor Circulation and Cold Feet

Some people feel that they can never get their feet to warm up. This may mean that their feet always feel cold to the touch, cold to the individual, or both. This is oftentimes due to poor circulation throughout the body, especially to one’s feet. There are some medical conditions that cause poor circulation, but daily behaviors can also influence the severity of one’s cold feet. Examples of these behaviors are exercising, smoking, and drinking. Exercising has a positive impact on regulating the temperature of your feet, while smoking and drinking have the opposite effect. In most cases, cold feet are at most a nuisance and can be remedied with simple changes like wearing thicker socks. Although, there are cases where cold feet coupled with certain symptoms may mean that something more serious is going on. If you have cold feet as well as sores on your feet, extreme fatigue, unexplained weight changes, fever, or joint pain, then it is recommended you consult a podiatrist to fully understand what is going on.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Robert Klein of New York. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

  • Numbness
  • Tingling
  • Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
  • Pain
  • Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

Read more about Causes Symptoms and Treatment for Poor Circulation in the Feet

Specific foot conditions that are known as plantar fasciitis and heel spurs may be a result of shortened muscles in the lower legs and feet. Moderate relief may be obtained when these muscles are lengthened, and this may be accomplished by properly stretching the feet. An effective stretch for the plantar fascia consists of lowering your heel while standing on a step until a desired stretch is felt. Maximum results may be achieved by alternating feet and repeated several times per day. The towel stretch is an effective method in stretching this band of tissue on the bottom of the foot. A satisfying stretch may be achieved while sitting on the floor, wrapping a towel around the sole of the foot, while pulling inward. Hold this position for several seconds and repeat on the other foot. If you would like additional information about the importance of stretching your feet, please speak with a podiatrist who can recommend beneficial exercises.

Why Stretching is Important for Your Feet

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. Robert Klein from New York. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first to determine if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

  • Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
  • Similar to the previous exercise, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
  • Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
  • Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.

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

Read more about Stretching Your Feet
Monday, 14 January 2019 00:00

Try Soft Soled Shoes for Baby's First Shoe

Research has shown that a baby’s foot is generally flexible and padded with fatty tissue until walking begins. Babies will typically begin walking at approximately 12 months of age and many toddlers are flat footed. This condition will generally disappear once walking has begun, and this may be a result of the increased strength of bones and muscles that are present in the feet. When the walking process starts, a soft soled shoe is ideal to begin wearing and this may enable the toddler to feel the ground while walking, in addition to protecting their feet. The correct shoe size may be determined by measuring your child’s feet frequently and this may aid in monitoring the speed of their growing feet. Please make sure there is plenty of room for the toes to move freely in, in addition to confirming the shoe is comfortable in width and length. It is suggested to consult with a podiatrist if you would like additional information about how to take care of children’s feet.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Robert Klein of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

  • Make sure their shoes fit properly
  • Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
  • Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
  • Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
  • Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
  • Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
  • Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
  • Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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

Read more about How to Care for Your Child's Feet
Monday, 07 January 2019 00:00

Are Plantar Warts Contagious?

A painful and uncomfortable condition that is known as plantar warts will typically affect the heel of the foot. It appears as a small, thickened area with tiny black dots in the center, and may generally cause severe pain while walking. Most warts extend outward from the skin, but this wart grows inward as a result of the pressure the heel endures from walking for most of the day. Plantar warts are known to be caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and is extremely contagious. This type of virus thrives in warm and moist places, often including pools, locker rooms, and surrounding areas. Research has shown that it may enter the body through tiny cracks in the skin of the heel area. Measures can be implemented that may prevent this virus from attacking the body, which may include wearing appropriate shoes in public shower areas, and avoid sharing towels, shoes, or socks. If you feel you have developed this ailment, it is suggested to speak with a podiatrist to discuss proper treatment options.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Robert Klein from New York. Our doctor 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 Jackson Heights, and Brentwood, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Plantar Warts
Wednesday, 02 January 2019 00:00

Causes of Blisters

A natural defense mechanism the body uses to protect damaged skin is referred to as blisters. They are defined as small areas that are filled with fluid that cushions the skin, and this may prevent an infection from occurring. The pain may be intense from blisters that develop on the feet, and this may be a result of the body weight the feet typically bears. Most blisters are caused by friction and pressure, and this may happen when improper shoes are worn. Additionally, there may be other reasons why blisters may occur, including being exposed to freezing temperatures, which may cause the painful condition known as frostbite, spending excess time in the sun, which may lead to severe sunburn, or having an allergic reaction to an insect bite. Some patients develop blisters as a result of specific chemicals in laundry detergents or skin cleansers. If you have blisters on your feet, it is suggested that you counsel with a podiatrist who can properly guide you to correct treatment options.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Robert Klein of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

  • Bubble of skin filled with fluid
  • Redness
  • Moderate to severe pain
  • Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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

Read more about Blisters
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