Items filtered by date: February 2021

A toenail that has turned black, whether suddenly or gradually, can be an alarming sight. Sometimes, a toenail may turn black following repetitive injuries to the nail. In many cases, the nail can grow out naturally, but in more severe cases when the nail begins to lift off of the nail bed, medical attention will be required. A one-time blunt force injury, like dropping a heavy piece of furniture on your toes, can also turn your toenail black and often causes pain and swelling. Fungal nail infections typically cause toenails to turn white or yellow, but as debris builds up near the infection, the toenail can also turn black. Natural changes in pigmentation that can occur with age may turn the nails darker in people with darker skin. Other potential causes of black toenails include melanoma, and underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease, and anemia. If you notice a change in the color of your toenails, it is suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist.

For more information about treatment, contact Robert Stein, DPM of South Shore Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Cedarhurst and Franklin Square, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

The largest joint in the big toe is referred to as the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. The MTP joint helps to balance the body’s weight while performing daily activities.  A bunion is a bony protrusion that is considered to be a deformity that forms at this specific joint. It can develop from genetic factors, or from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. It may cause the second and third toe to overlap, and larger shoes may need to be worn. In larger bunions, a callus may form on top of the toe, and this is generally a result of excess friction that is caused by the shoe. Mild relief may be found when a protective pad is worn over the bunion. If you have developed this condition, it is best that you speak with a podiatrist who may suggest surgery for permanent removal.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Robert Stein, DPM of South Shore Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

A tingling sensation, or “pins and needles,” is a common occurrence among patients who have neuropathy. A common reason why neuropathy exists is elevated blood sugar levels, which can result in diabetes. Some of the symptoms that are associated with diabetic neuropathy can include extreme fatigue, nausea, headaches, and dizziness. Additionally, pregnant women may experience this ailment, as this can be a result of the growing baby exerting pressure on the nerves in the legs. Vitamin deficiencies may lead to the development of neuropathy, particularly with a lack of  vitamin B-12. Neuropathy can be a serious condition, and if you are experiencing these symptoms, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Robert Stein, DPM from South Shore Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

The feet can be susceptible to receiving inadequate care. Research has indicated the importance of performing everyday foot care techniques because they generally help the appearance and overall well being of the feet. Many patients enjoy soaking their feet in warm water while adding essential oils to the water, followed by using a pumice stone to soften calluses. Ingrown toenails may be prevented when the cuticles are pushed down, and cuticle oil is applied. Soft skin can gradually develop when coconut oil is used on the feet. This is most effective when done before bed, and warm socks are worn while sleeping. For additional information about everyday foot care practices, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can guide you with correct knowledge.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Robert Stein, DPM from South Shore Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Cedarhurst and Franklin Square, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.