A foot ulcer is an open sore or wound that typically occurs on the bottom of the foot. It is common in individuals with diabetes or poor circulation, as high blood sugar and reduced blood flow can impair healing. Foot ulcers can develop due to pressure, friction, or injury, and without proper care, they can become infected or worsen over time. Effective wound care is an important way to prevent further complications. This involves cleaning the ulcer regularly, applying appropriate dressings, and ensuring the foot is protected from further injury. It is also important to manage underlying conditions, such as diabetes, by keeping blood sugar levels under control. In some cases, a podiatrist may recommend antibiotics if an infection is present. Wearing proper footwear and offloading pressure from the affected area are also essential in promoting healing and preventing recurrence. If you have developed a foot ulcer, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Gary Saphire, DPM from Parkway Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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.

Arthroscopic ankle surgery is a procedure that allows a podiatrist to see inside the ankle joint and address problems without making a large incision. Small cuts are created around the ankle so that a tiny camera and instruments can be inserted. This gives the podiatrist a clear view of the joint surfaces, cartilage, and ligaments. Arthroscopic ankle surgery can help identify and treat arthritis, torn ligaments, or bone spurs. Loose pieces of cartilage or bone that cause pain and stiffness can be removed, and inflamed tissue lining the joint can be treated to improve motion. The procedure generally lasts 30 to 45 minutes, and most patients return home the same day. Swelling and soreness are common for several weeks, and many people regain mobility with proper care. If you have an ankle injury that may require surgery, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and available treatment options.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Gary Saphire, DPM of Parkway Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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.

Foot pain can interfere with daily life, but taking simple steps can help keep your feet healthy. Wearing supportive shoes with proper cushioning and fit reduces strain and pressure. Stretching your feet and legs regularly improves flexibility and balance, lowering the risk of injuries. Practicing balance exercises strengthens the muscles that support the feet and ankles. Additionally, trimming toenails straight across prevents painful ingrown nails, while promptly treating wounds or infections protects overall foot health. A podiatrist can provide personalized advice, address underlying conditions, and offer treatments that keep your feet strong and pain-free. If you have foot pain or are struggling with minor or chronic foot discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist for expert guidance and relief.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Gary Saphire, DPM from Parkway Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, most often affecting the big toe. It has long been called the disease of kings, due to its association with rich foods and indulgence. A gout attack can bring sudden, intense pain, swelling, and redness, making it difficult to walk or wear shoes. To help manage gout, it is best to avoid foods high in purines such as red meat, shellfish, and alcohol while choosing more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low fat dairy. A podiatrist can provide treatment for pain relief and guidance for prevention. If you are experiencing gout symptoms, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you with effective management and prevention tips. 

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Gary Saphire, DPM from Parkway Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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.