One of the most important things diabetic patients can do is examine their feet daily. Inspect the feet even when they feel fine to determine if any cuts may have developed. Neuropathy, or nerve damage, is the inability to feel any sores on the feet and this condition often accompanies diabetes. It can become a serious complication for people with diabetes if a cut is left unnoticed, therefore untreated. A small wound on the foot may become infected, leading to a diabetic foot ulcer. A good diabetic foot care routine can begin with washing and drying the feet thoroughly, followed by inspecting the soles. It is important to refrain from walking barefoot, and it can help to wear socks and shoes that fit correctly. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this 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 Gary Saphire, DPM from Parkway Podiatry. Our doctor 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 Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Erythromelalgia, or EM, can affect the feet. It is considered to be a rare foot condition, and common symptoms are redness, burning, and the skin can feel warm. There are two categories of erythromelalgia, consisting of primary and secondary. The former type may be associated with family history and can be more prevalent among children. The above symptoms can become debilitating and will generally affect both feet. The latter classification may be linked to autoimmune diseases or conditions that affect the blood and bone marrow and can be more common among adults. Research has shown that erythromelalgia may be linked to heavy metal poisoning, which may happen if exposed to air or water pollution, lead-based paints, or specific types of medication. There is no cure for this foot condition, but relief may be found by treating the symptoms. This can include taking aspirin, antihistamines, or other kinds of medicine. If you have symptoms of EM, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help offer relief options that are correct for you.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Gary Saphire, DPM of Parkway Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

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

A large majority of people who ride bicycles experience some type of foot pain, regardless of their level of expertise or performance. While cycling, great force is generated from the legs to the feet and through to the pedals. This output of energy can result in burning, numbness, and sharp pain in the sole of the foot. A combination of long rides, warm weather, and tight shoes can make matters worse. The first way to help prevent these reactions from happening is to pay attention to footwear. Studies show that cycling shoes should be wider in the toe box to counter the swelling that occurs during a ride. Also, keeping the straps looser allows for a better range of motion. The less flexibility in the sole of the shoe, the more likely it is to cause foot pain. Special inserts are available for stiffer shoes to relieve some of the pressure on the sole of the foot. It’s a good idea to try on cycling shoes later in the day when the feet are more likely to be swollen, as they would be while riding. If you commonly endure foot pain after cycling, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and options for treatment. 

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Gary Saphire, DPM of Parkway Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A bunion can be painful, and many people avoid seeking medical treatment until it becomes unmanageable. A bunion is a bony protrusion that develops on the side of the big toe, and it can cause the other toes to shift together. It can form due to genetic reasons or from wearing shoes that do not have ample room for the toes to move freely in. High heels can fit into this category, and choosing a shoe with a wider toe box is beneficial, which may help prevent bunions from forming. A bunion is considered to be a deformity and will progress until they are dealt with. Patients may find mild relief when larger shoes are worn that can accommodate the bunion and a protective pad is worn over it. This may help to prevent corns from developing on top of the bunion as it constantly touches the side of the shoe. When walking or completing daily activities becomes difficult, many people will seek medical attention for relief. If you have a bunion, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can perform surgery that can provide permanent relief.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Gary Saphire, DPM of Parkway Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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