Items filtered by date: April 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, can cause significant discomfort and mobility issues in the toes. The inflammation damages the toe joints and surrounding tissues, leading to deformities like hammer toe, claw toe, bunions, and corns, making simple activities like walking painful. Seeking a diagnosis from a podiatrist as early as possible allows for effective management. Treatment typically involves lifestyle adjustments, medication, and sometimes surgery, which a podiatrist can provide. Podiatrists also offer specialized care to alleviate RA symptoms and improve mobility, such as custom orthotics, suitable footwear recommendations, and joint fusion or toe reshaping if necessary. Regular checkups with a podiatrist help to monitor the effects of RA and adjust treatment as needed. By taking proactive steps and seeking professional help from a podiatrist, you can minimize the impact of arthritis on your toes and get the relief you need. If you're experiencing persistent toe pain from rheumatoid arthritis or noticing deformities on the toes, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for personalized care and support.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists from Foot Doctors of Utica. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

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

Foot arch pain can affect people of all ages and activity levels. The arches of the foot serve a vital role in absorbing shock and distributing weight during activities like walking, running, and jumping. However, when the arch is strained or stressed, it can lead to discomfort ranging from mild to severe, and may negatively affect your daily activities. Foot arch pain can arise from various causes, including injuries, overuse, and structural differences in the feet. Underlying conditions like plantar fasciitis or posterior tibial tendon dysfunction are other possible causes. Seeking assistance from a podiatrist is necessary for an accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan. A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating foot and ankle conditions through physical examinations and imaging tests in order to identify the root cause of your foot arch pain.  Treatment options may include prescription medications, custom orthotics, immobilization devices, or surgery in persistent or severe cases. To alleviate discomfort from foot arch pain and restore your mobility, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot Doctors of Utica. Our doctors 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 offices located in Herkimer, and New Hartford, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition that occurs when the tibial nerve, which runs through the inside of the ankle, becomes compressed. This compression can lead to a range of symptoms, commonly including a tingling sensation, numbness, or a burning pain in the foot, especially in the sole or arch. Some people may also experience these sensations extending to the heel, toes, or up into the calf. The discomfort often worsens with activity and can become more pronounced at night. Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be caused by anything that increases pressure in the tarsal tunnel, such as swelling from an injury, flat feet that strain the nerve, or growths like cysts. If you suspect tarsal tunnel syndrome, it is suggested that you seek prompt evaluation from a podiatrist.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Doctors of Utica. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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

First and foremost, wearing ill-fitting shoes can lead to a myriad of injuries. Whether they are too tight, too loose, or simply not designed for the activity you are engaging in, improper footwear can place undue stress on your feet, ankles, lower legs, and joints, increasing your risk of pain and injury. From common issues like shin splints and ingrown nails to more severe problems such as bunions and postural misalignments, the repercussions of wearing the wrong shoes can be far-reaching and debilitating, potentially limiting your ability to engage in physical activity altogether. Furthermore, wearing the wrong shoes can worsen existing conditions, such as arthritis, making daily activities more challenging and uncomfortable. Plus, when your shoes fail to support your natural gait or foot structure, it can lead to overpronation, underpronation, or other biomechanical issues, placing added strain on your joints and increasing your risk of injury. If your feet are painful after performing certain activities or from wearing certain shoes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to determine whether your footwear may need to be changed.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot Doctors of Utica. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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

Ingrown toenails, a common foot ailment, occur when the edges of the toenail grow into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. Factors such as cutting toenails too short and rounding them, or wearing tight-fitting shoes can contribute to the development of an ingrown toenail. To manage ingrown toenails, practicing good foot hygiene by washing feet regularly, changing socks, and cutting toenails straight across is essential. Gentle pushing of the skin away from the nail can also provide relief. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, seeking professional help is suggested. A podiatrist can provide the appropriate treatment options, which may include surgical intervention to remove part or all of the toenail, if necessary. If an ingrown toenail is affecting your daily activities or has become infected, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for personalized care and effective treatment. 

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Doctors of Utica. Our doctors 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 Herkimer, and New Hartford, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.