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Are Heel Spurs Painful?

The medical condition that is known as a heel spur can develop from standing on hard surfaces for the majority of the day, or from running and participating in jumping activities. It is defined as a bony growth that forms as a result of heel stress, and develops on the heel bone. Some patients experience severe pain and discomfort from heel spurs. Mild relief may be found when correct treatment is started. This can consist of wearing arch supports, performing specific stretches that can help strengthen the heel, or wearing shoes that have adequate cushioning. If you have developed a heel spur, it is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly treat heel spurs.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Dr. Larry Cohen from New York City. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

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

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Falling May Occur Among Elderly Patients

Many elderly people experience health issues as the aging process occurs. Typically, this can affect their balance. That is why learning ways to prevent falling may possibly help to reduce the risk of painful injuries. There are many different reasons why some patients may be at risk of falling. These can include improperly using a cane or walker, or having poor hearing or eyesight. It’s important to remove any tripping hazards in the living area of the home to help prevent falling. Other means of prevention may consist of discarding worn rugs, and taping down any existing electrical wires that may be on the floor. Additionally, it may be beneficial to install grab bars in the shower and toilet area for extra support. If you would like additional information about how to prevent falling, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

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 Dr. Larry Cohen from New York City. Our doctor 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 our offices located in Midtown, Manhattan New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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What Symptoms Are Indicative of Athlete’s Foot?

Athlete’s foot may develop as a result of catching a fungal skin infection. Those who have had this condition expressed experiencing sores between their toes, scaly white skin, painful lesions, and an overall sensation of itchiness on the affected foot. One way this condition may be contracted is by sharing shoes or socks with someone with existing athlete's foot. Because fungi thrives in warm and moist environments, you may become afflicted with this infection if you walk around barefoot in locker rooms, communal showers and swimming pool areas. To help with prevention, it’s advised that you use the proper footwear when walking around in these places. For a proper diagnosis and an advised plan of treatment, consult with a podiatrist for professional care and tips on alleviating discomfort.

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 Dr. Larry Cohen from New York City.  Our doctor 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 offices located in Midtown, Manhattan New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Can Hammertoes Be Corrected?

Hammertoes can be identified as a toe with a significant downward bend in the middle joint, often appearing hammer-like, as its name suggests. This condition may come with an abundance of discomfort and pain. Hammertoes can often be associated with the development of corns, calluses, and bunions as well. Their development may be a result of genetics, or wearing ill-fitted shoes that don’t leave the toes enough room to move freely in. Other health complications, such as diabetes, can cause nerve damage, which may also lead to the formation of a hammertoe. Treatment of a hammertoe may vary depending on its severity and overall flexibility, or lack thereof. Flexible hammertoes may be treated through the use of custom orthotics, which are worn to help correct the positioning of the toe. Rigid hammertoes, however, may be corrected by having surgery performed, and are often done when conservative measures are found ineffective. To help diagnose which kind of hammertoe you have, and to determine which action should be taken for its treatment, it is recommended you consult with a podiatrist for professional advice and care.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Larry Cohen of New York City. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

  • Painful and/or difficult toe movement
  • Swelling
  • Joint stiffness
  • Calluses/Corns
  • Physical deformity

Risk Factors

  • Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
  • Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
  • Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
  • Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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

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Possible Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

Recent studies have indicated that plantar fasciitis is the most common diagnosis for heel pain. This is a condition that is a result of an inflamed or torn plantar fascia, which is located on the bottom of the foot. It is a band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes, and can become damaged for a variety of reasons. These can include being overweight, wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or from standing for long periods of time for the majority of the day. Some of the symptoms that are often associated with this condition can consist of swelling, heel pain that is more severe upon arising in the morning, and a sharp pain in or around the arch. Moderate relief may be found when the affected foot is elevated, as this may help to reduce existing swelling. Custom-made orthotics may be beneficial in providing an extra level of comfort. If you are afflicted with plantar fasciitis, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist. 

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Larry Cohen from New York City. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

  • Excessive running
  • Having high arches in your feet
  • Other foot issues such as flat feet
  • Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
  • Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

  • Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

 

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Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

Wounds on the Feet May Be a Serious Condition

A wound is considered to be a laceration. Patients who are dietetic may be familiar with the possibility of getting wounds on the feet. If these are not promptly treated, an infection may develop, and can potentially be a serious condition. Wounds on the feet may be less serious for people who are not diabetic, and minor wounds may be treated with surgical tape. Research has indicated the importance of keeping the wound and surrounding area dry and clean, as this may help to prevent an infection. If you have any type of wounds on the feet, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

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 Dr. Larry Cohen from New York City. 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 offices located in Midtown, Manhattan New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Why Does My Child Have Flat Feet?

Research has indicated that the majority of babies are born with flat feet. This is a result of flexible bones, ligaments, and tendons which prevent the arch from forming. When children are approximately age six, the feet will become stronger, and the arch will develop. Research has shown there are a small percentage of children who will continue to have flat feet throughout their lives. This condition may be acceptable to live with, as long as the feet are not stiff, and there is no pain. There may be physical reasons why flat feet occur. These can include having a tight Achilles tendon, or having rigid feet. This may cause difficulty in moving the foot in any direction, and could lead to arthritis. If your child has not outgrown flat feet, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can help you to determine the reason.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Larry Cohen of New York City. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

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Symptoms of Gout

There are several types of arthritis, including gout. It is known to be a painful condition that generally affects the big toe. Some of the symptoms that are associated with gout can include severe pain and discomfort, redness, and the affected area may feel hot. It may occur as a result of elevated uric acid levels in the blood, and can form crystals which lodge in the joints of the big toe. Existing factors that may increase the chances of being afflicted with gout can consist of being diabetic, having high blood pressure, or being overweight. There are methods that can be taken which may prevent gout attacks. It is helpful to reduce alcohol intake, eliminate food and drinks that have high sugar levels, and avoid red meat. If you have experienced a gout attack, it is strongly recommended that you are under the care of a podiatrist.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Larry Cohen from New York City. Our doctor 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 our offices located in Midtown, Manhattan New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Possible Causes of Blisters

An uncomfortable condition on your feet as a result of excessive friction may be referred to as a blister. It appears as a small area that is filled with fluid, which forms as the body’s natural defense to protect the damaged skin. Blisters on the feet are generally caused by wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or from having excessively sweaty feet. It may be beneficial to protect the blister as daily activities are accomplished. This can be achieved by putting a bandage over the affected area, until it drains on its own when new skin has formed. If you get frequent blisters and would like advice on how to prevent them, please consult with a podiatrist.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Larry Cohen of New York City. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often 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.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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

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Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

How Do Broken Toes Occur?

A broken toe can be the result of a heavy object falling on it, or jamming it against a piece of furniture. Common symptoms that are typically associated with this ailment can consist of severe pain and discomfort, extreme bruising, and difficulty walking. A diagnosis is typically performed by having an X-ray taken. This is an effective method in locating the exact area of the toe where the fracture has occurred. Once this has been determined, the correct treatment can begin. Many patients find it beneficial to tape the affected toe to the toe next to it. This is known as the buddy taping method. Additionally, for severe fractures, it may help to wear a boot that can offer adequate support as the toe begins to heal. If you have broken your toe, it is advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can help you to choose the best treatment option.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Larry Cohen from New York City. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Throbbing pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising on the skin and toenail
  • The inability to move the toe
  • Toe appears crooked or disfigured
  • Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

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Inflammation of the Plantar Fascia

There is a portion of tissue that is found on the bottom of the foot. This is referred to as the plantar fascia, and its purpose is to connect the heel to the toes. Many patients suffer from plantar fasciitis, which may happen when this band of tissue becomes inflamed. This painful condition may occur as a result of wearing shoes that do not have adequate support, running on uneven surfaces, or from sudden weight gain. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this condition can consist of pain while walking after arising in the morning, and discomfort that is felt in the heel and surrounding areas. Relief may be found when the foot is elevated, in addition to performing specific foot stretches. If you feel you have developed plantar fasciitis, it is advised that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can determine what the best treatment is for you.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Larry Cohen  from New York City. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

  • Excessive running
  • Non-supportive shoes
  • Overpronation
  • Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

  • Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
  • Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
  • Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

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Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!

When to See a Podiatrist About Your Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are caused by HPV and normally take the form of small growths that appear as lesions on the weight-bearing regions of one’s foot. While they are not seen as a serious health concern, it is important to treat these warts to maintain the health of your feet. Plantar warts most commonly affect children and teenagers, those with weak immune systems, and those who tend to walk barefoot on wart-causing surfaces like locker rooms. If you notice your lesion is bleeding, painful, or has changed color, it is recommended that you consult with a podiatrist. If the warts do not go away on their own or keep returning, and you are experiencing discomfort with normal activities, it is also advised you seek further help. Keeping your feet clean and dry, avoiding picking at your warts, and changing your shoes and socks daily are a few ways to help prevent plantar warts from appearing. If you would like to seek further information about plantar warts or would like the assistance of a professional to treat your plantar warts, we recommend you consult with a podiatrist.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Larry Cohen from New York City. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

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Getting Adequate Sleep May Be Linked To Preventing Running Injuries

Research has indicated that the amount of sleep runners get may be linked to possibly preventing running injuries. Sleep helps the body to maintain strength, and may be connected to the minimization of stress the muscles and joints endure while running. Other benefits of sleeping the recommended eight hours per night may include restoring the body’s energy, recovery from possible fatigue, and enhancing one’s running performance. Getting the proper amount of sleep may be beneficial in recovering from an existing injury, as well as helping one to become more alert. Healthy sleep habits can include maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and resting in a bedroom that is cool and comfortable. If you would like additional information about how to prevent running injuries, please consult with a podiatrist.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Larry Cohen of New York City. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries? 
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

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

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Possible Causes of an Ingrown Toenail

The condition that is known as an ingrown toenail typically affects the big toe. It occurs as a result of the outer edges of the toenail growing into the skin. Patients who are afflicted with this ailment are often familiar with the pain and discomfort an ingrown toenail may cause. If the toenail is infected, there can be drainage oozing from the surrounding area. General reasons why ingrown toenails may develop can include trimming the nails incorrectly, or wearing shoes that do not have ample room for the toes to move freely in. Participating in certain sporting activities where trauma is placed on the toe may contribute to the formation of an ingrown toenail. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can guide you toward proper treatment techniques.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Larry Cohen of New York City. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

  • Bacterial infections
  • Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
  • Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
  • Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
  • Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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

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Are Foot And Ankle Injuries Common?

The majority of the population has endured a foot or ankle injury at some point in their lives. This type of condition may be prevalent among people who frequently participate in sporting activities. Additionally, muscle mass may decrease in older people, and the bones may become weaker as the aging process occurs. This may lead to falling, and the risk of spraining or fracturing your foot may increase. A stress fracture may occur gradually, and this is typically a result of overuse. A common foot ailment that is referred to as plantar fasciitis can occur when the plantar fascia becomes inflamed. The symptoms that are associated with this condition often consist of severe pain and discomfort in the heel and arch of the foot. If you have a foot or ankle injury, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly treat any foot conditions.

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with Dr. Larry Cohen from New York City. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

  • Broken bones
  • Muscle strains
  • Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
  • Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

  • Bruising
  • Inflammation/ Swelling
  • Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.

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

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A Broken Foot May Be Common in Children

A broken foot can be a common ailment that may occur in children. This can be a result of the bones in the feet that have not fully developed and are more fragile than the bones in the adult foot. If a broken foot occurs, noticeable symptoms often include severe pain, redness, swelling, and it may be difficult to walk on. Your child may find moderate relief when the affected foot is elevated, and a splint may temporarily be applied that can provide the necessary support. After a proper diagnosis is performed, which generally consists of having and X-ray taken, a cast or a protective boot is worn that can limit excess movement as the healing process takes place. If your child has fallen, and complains of foot pain, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly treat a broken foot.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Larry Cohen from New York City. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

  • Bruising
  • Pain
  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Blue in color
  • Numbness
  • Cold
  • Misshapen
  • Cuts
  • Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

Read more about Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for a Broken Foot

Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

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