Items filtered by date: August 2023

Foot orthotics are specialized shoe inserts designed to provide support, alleviate discomfort, and address various foot-related issues. These devices are available in different types, each catering to distinct needs. Some orthotics offer arch support, helping individuals with flat feet or high arches maintain proper alignment and reduce strain. Others focus on cushioning, which can provide relief for conditions such as plantar fasciitis or metatarsalgia. Additionally, functional orthotics aid in correcting irregular walking patterns and promoting better foot biomechanics. Whether you're an athlete aiming to enhance performance, an individual seeking relief from pain, or someone with a medical condition, foot orthotics can prove invaluable. If you would like more information about orthotics, It is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine whether they are right for you and which type would work best for your needs.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our doctors from Andrea Hyperbaric Wound Care & Health Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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

Neuropathic foot ulcers, commonly occurring in individuals with conditions like diabetes or spinal cord injuries, pose significant challenges to foot health. Ulcers form at the site of wounds that won’t heal, causing redness, pain, and inflammation. Treating neuropathic foot ulcers involves several strategies to ensure successful healing and avoid complications. Wound care is essential, involving regular cleansing, dead tissue removal, and proper dressing application to help prevent infections. Specialized shoes or casts can minimize pressure and enhance the healing process. Medications, such as antibiotics and analgesics, can aid in pain control, ward off infection, and accelerate wound healing. Proper management of underlying medical conditions, like diabetes and peripheral neuropathy, also helps to prevent neuropathic ulcers. Lifestyle modifications, including quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy diet, and performing regular exercises, are other ways to reduce risk. A vigilant foot care routine, control of blood sugar levels, and safeguarding the feet against injuries are three important preventative factors. For help with foot ulcers, it is suggested that you make regular appointments with a podiatrist who is trained to deal with this condition.

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 one of our doctors from Andrea Hyperbaric Wound Care & Health Center. Our doctors 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 office located in Astoria, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a pesky kind of foot condition in which the skin between the toes becomes irritated and flaky due to a fungal infection. Interestingly, athlete's foot is contagious because the fungal infection can spread from one person to another. There is a very particular way in which an athlete’s foot infection spreads between people. Namely, when an individual with athlete’s foot walks barefoot on a surface, they leave behind fungal spores. These spores can attach to many things such as shoes, clothes, furniture, and more. When another person comes into contact with these spores, they can also contract the fungal infection. If you have athlete's foot or are looking to protect yourself from developing it, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for treatment.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our doctors from Andrea Hyperbaric Wound Care & Health Center.  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

The feet are often taken for granted, and they are sometimes a part of the body that gets the least respect. The feet are most likely to get injured from absorbing the body’s weight. They are responsible for various things, including providing us with mobility and balance. Many people wear shoes that do not fit correctly, and part of a good everyday foot care routine is to choose shoes that fit well. The day can begin by washing and drying the feet thoroughly, followed by applying a good moisturizer. It is beneficial to alternate pairs of shoes worn each day, and this can provide an opportunity to air the shoes out. Additionally, limiting the time flip-flops are worn can help the arch of the foot. Women who are pregnant may find their feet become swollen, and relief may be found when the feet are frequently elevated. If you would like additional tips on everyday foot care, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide you with useful information.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our doctors from Andrea Hyperbaric Wound Care & Health Center. Our doctors 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 office located in Astoria, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.