Items filtered by date: June 2024

Tuesday, 25 June 2024 00:00

How to Prevent Sock Blisters

Preventing sock blisters involves considering several key factors. Choosing the right sock material is vital, as synthetic blends or merino wool are excellent options because they wick moisture away from the skin and reduce friction. Cotton socks, on the other hand, tend to retain moisture, increasing the risk of blisters. Ensuring the correct sock size is also essential. Socks that are too tight can cause pressure points, while those that are too loose can create folds that rub against the skin. Additionally, the construction of the sock matters, as seamless socks or those with flat seams minimize irritation. Padded socks can provide extra cushioning and protection in high-friction areas. Paying attention to these details can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing painful sock blisters during activities. If you have developed blisters that have become infected, and would like to know if the socks or shoes are causing them, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer correct treatment and prevention strategies.

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 one of our podiatrists of William Street Podiatry. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in William Street in New York, NY, Forest Hills, NY, and Broadway in New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Tuesday, 18 June 2024 00:00

Preventing Falls While Riding a Bicycle

To prevent falls while riding a bicycle, start by ensuring your bike fits properly, as this provides better control and comfort. Avoid obstacles by staying alert and scanning the path ahead, allowing you to navigate around potential hazards. Maintaining composure is key, and try not to get startled by sudden noises or movements, as staying calm helps you keep control. It is essential to take breaks when tired, as fatigue can impair your balance and reaction time. Riding at a standard pace, without sudden accelerations or decelerations, helps maintain stability and control. By following these practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of falls and enjoy a safer cycling experience. Falling off a bike can cause painful foot injuries. If this has happened to you, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer treatment and relief remedies, in addition to effective fall prevention tips.

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 William Street Podiatry. 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 one of our offices located in William Street in New York, NY, Forest Hills, NY, and Broadway in New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Sunday, 16 June 2024 00:00

Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

Tuesday, 11 June 2024 00:00

Arthritis and the Feet

Arthritis can significantly impact the feet, leading to pain, swelling, and difficulty in walking. Several types of arthritis can affect the feet, with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis being the most common. Osteoarthritis, often referred to as wear-and-tear arthritis, occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears down over time. This can lead to pain and stiffness in the feet, particularly in the joints of the toes and ankles. Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system attacks the joints, causing inflammation and deformity. Treatment options for arthritis in the feet vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. They may include medication to reduce pain and inflammation, exercise to improve joint function and mobility, and orthotic devices to support the feet. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or replace damaged joints. If you are experiencing foot pain or discomfort due to arthritis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide specialized care and a tailored treatment plan to alleviate the symptoms, and improve your quality of life.

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

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

  • Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
  • Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
  • Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in William Street in New York, NY, Forest Hills, NY, and Broadway in New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Early onset gout, a form of arthritis, can be a debilitating condition that disrupts daily life and impacts overall well-being. Gout typically manifests as sudden and intense pain, swelling, and tenderness in the joints, often affecting the big toe initially. This inflammatory response occurs due to the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, resulting from an imbalance in the body's production and excretion of uric acid. While gout is commonly associated with older age and certain lifestyle factors, like diet and alcohol consumption, it can also develop in younger individuals, often due to genetic predisposition or underlying health conditions. Managing early onset gout involves a multifaceted approach, including medication to alleviate symptoms, dietary modifications to reduce purine-rich foods, and lifestyle changes to maintain a healthy weight and minimize alcohol intake. Gout typically affects the big toe, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. If you have been afflicted with gout, it is suggested that you seek prompt attention from a podiatrist who can offer you relief and prevention methods.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from William Street Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in William Street in New York, NY, Forest Hills, NY, and Broadway in New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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