Blog Archives
Arthritic Implant Cartiva eases Toe Pain
Arthritis of the big toe affects nearly half a million of Great Britain’s population. Cartiva, an innovative new implant, has been purported to help ease the pain and stiffness from arthritis through surgery. To alleviate pain and keep them from rubbing together, the implant is surgically inserted between the bones of the toe. Cartiva’s flexibility and putty-like consistency allow it to act as a shock absorber, similar to cartilage. Val Cornwall, a sixty-seven-year-old resident of Hillingdon, Middlesex underwent surgery for the procedure in February 2011 and is now as active as ever. Cornwall was able to leave the hospital the next morning after a forty-minute operation under general anesthetic.
If left untreated, arthritis of the feet can be very painful. If painful arthritis has been troubling you, consult with podiatrist Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Footcare NY. Dr. Hillel will provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment and alleviate your joint pain.
Arthritic Foot Care
In an average lifetime, we walk approximately 75,000 miles. This can put a great deal of stress on the 26 bones and 30 joints that we have in our feet. As we get older, our feet lose flexibility and elasticity. Our shock absorbers weaken, and if arthritis comes into play, the joints become inflamed and distorted. Arthritic foot care and treatment would become imperative at this point.
It is best to take care of your feet by wearing well-fitted shoes. Certain conditions may develop when you wear shoes that don’t fit properly, for example hammertoes, neuroma, and bunions. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room in the shoe can help your feet be comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with arch support will help; it is also a good idea to buy shoes that contour to your foot.
Alleviating Arthritic Pain
-Specific exercises may help; stretching the Achilles tendon can prevent further pain and injury. Stretching can also increase your mobility.
For more information about Arthritic Foot Care, follow the link below.
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 care needs.
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Thunder God Vine Can Aid Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
A recent study published in the journal Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases recently found that a Chinese herb known as thunder god vine may be an effective treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis. The study used 207 patients and observed their responses to the herb, the pharmaceutical drug methotrexate, and a combination of both.
After six months, the groups were assessed to see which achieved close to a fifty percent improvement in their pain and joint stiffness. Forty-six percent of the patients prescribed methotrexate noticed an improvement. This was lower than the fifty-five percent of participants given just the herb, and seventy-seven percent of those treated with both medications.
Characterized by stiffness and lack of mobility, Rheumatoid Arthritis is a painful condition that needs medical attention. For treatment options, see podiatrist Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Footcare NY. Dr. Hillel can take care of any foot conditions and determine a treatment plan that is right for you.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.
Symptoms
- Swelling & pain in the feet
- Stiffness in the feet
- Pain on the ball or sole of feet
- Joint shift and deformation
Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.
For more information about rheumatoid arthritis please follow the link below.
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 injuries.
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Dealing with Ingrown Toenails
Margaret Abbott, a general practitioner (GP) at the Windmill Practice in Sneinton and the GP lead at NHS Nottingham City Clinical Commissioning Group, discusses methods to easing the pain of ingrown toenails. Ingrown toenails occur when the sides of the toenail grow into the surrounding skin, piercing the skin and causing it to become swollen and tender. Soaking the foot in warm water a couple of times a day should help clear the infection by loosening the skin and forcing the infection to grow out. Olive oil can be used to gently push the skin away while further softening the skin. Home remedies such as tea tree oil or a vapor rub can also be used, while an anti-inflammatory painkiller such as ibuprofen will ease the pain and reduce the inflammation.
Ingrown toenails can become quite painful, especially if they are left untreated. If you are suffering from a painful ingrown toenail and are seeking treatment, consult with podiatrist Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Footcare NY. Dr. Hillel will confirm your diagnosis and provide you with quality treatment.
Ingrown Toenails Causes
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
There are a number of risk factors for ingrown toenails. Some include cutting your nails too short, participating in strenuous sports, diabetes, obesity, and fungal infection. Some are genetically predisposed to ingrown nails, although wearing ill-fitting or damp shoes can exacerbate the problem.
Treatment
There are a number of steps you can take to treat ingrown nails:
-Let your toenails grow out
-Soak the toes in hot water with antibiotic soap or Epsom salts
-Placing a piece of cotton under the affected nail may allow the toe to grow up instead of into the nail bed
-Rest with your feet up
If however, your pain is severe, or you see red streaks running up your leg, you should see a podiatrist. Your podiatrist may make a small incision and remove part of the toe nail to relieve the pressure. A local anesthetic may be used to lessen the discomfort of the operation. Topical medication may also be prescribed to prevent the regrowth of the problem nail.
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 care needs.
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Study Finds Shorter Nonsurgical Medical Treatment For Diabetics is More Effective
A study conducted by the Gustave Dron Hospital in France suggests that a shorter period of antibiotic treatment may be more effective in patients with diabetic foot osteomyelitis than other forms of treatment. The study was conducted using 40 patients that were given oral antibiotics for the disease between 2007 and 2009 from five French hospitals. According to the Infectious Diseases Society of America guidelines, diabetic foot osteomyelitis should be resolved within three months of antibiotic therapy. However, the study showed nearly two-thirds of the patients had achieved remission in about six to twelve weeks of treatment. This proves that a shorter time span of treatment and nonsurgical treatment are acceptable methods for certain patients with osteomyelitis.
Diabetes is a very serious condition that can result in many complications if left untreated. If you are diabetic and have any concerns, visit Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Footcare NY. Dr. Hillel can treat your diabetic feet.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people of all ages each year. Diabetes damages blood vessels in many parts of the body, including the feet. When damage occurs to nerves in the feet, they may be unable to send the proper signals to the peripheral nervous system, resulting in a condition known as neuropathy. Once a diabetic patient develops neuropathy, it is imperative that the feet are well taken care of to avoid possible amputation of the feet.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
- Regularly check your feet for bruises or sores.
- Wear socks that fit your feet; socks shouldn’t be tight.
- Wear properly fitting shoes that are comfortable.
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their Hemoglobin A1C levels as this test lets the physician know how well the blood sugar levels have been controlled during the past 3 months. It is important to keep the blood sugar levels in a normal range (70-110mg/dl). It is advisable to visit a podiatrist if the diabetic patient is experiencing any conditions involving the feet.
For more information about Diabetic Foot Care, follow the link below.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
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Medical Student finds that those with Abnormal Biomechanics are more prone to Injury
According to research from medical student Vanessa Mercieca, athletes with high arches or flat feet are more prone to the injuries caused by athletic demands imposed on the feet. Those with abnormal biomechanics of the feet should be extra careful since they are more apt to develop problems such as plantar fasciitis, ankle sprains, and neuromas. In order to avoid foot injuries, athletes should seek medical attention as soon as they feel pain, wear proper fitting shoes, and choose shoes with the correct amount of arch support. Custom orthotics can also help avoid putting too much stress on the foot or over pronation of the foot that results in the aforementioned injuries.
The biomechanics are the moving parts that manage the movement of your feet. If you would like more information, see Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Footcare NY. Dr. Hillel can assess and provide in-depth information as well as measure your personal foot biomechanics.
A History of Biomechanics
- Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
- In 1974 biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination to the area.
Modern technology improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes providing a better understanding of podiatry concepts for biomechanics. Computers provide accurate determinations about the forces, moments and patterns of the foot and lower legs with the most important information captured.
Advances in materials and more awareness of biomechanics have developed enhanced corrective methods, offering further options for foot-related injuries. Understanding foot biomechanics can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
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Exercise the Feet through Instability Training
Instability training, a new system of exercise, helps athletes looking to increase overall agility by having them eventually jump higher and run faster. The system of exercise involves the use of balance boards, rubber bands and mini-trams to work multiple areas in the feet, ankles, and lower legs as well as the knees, hips, and back. By specifically targeting the feet and ankles, instability training focuses on strengthening the body from the ground up.
Instability training exercises include changing positions on the boards or tram, standing on one foot at a time on a mini-trampoline for 15 to 30 seconds, and moving the foot up and down, in and out and side to side with rubber bands or tubing to strengthen the lower leg muscles.
Exercising the feet can be done through not only instability training, but other methods as well. To learn more, consult with Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Footcare NY. Dr. Hillel will answer any of your foot and ankle related concerns.
Exercise for Your Feet
If you spend most of your time on your feet, or don’t either way your feet should deserve attention. There are many people who exercise regularly and still don’t spend enough time to care for their feet. Your foot does get exposure that requires maintenance since your health has a lot to do with footing.
Exercises
Toe rise – this exercise involves standing on the tip-toes for a count of 15 seconds, then resting your feet on ground. This exercise should be repeated three times a day to strengthen the feet.
Toe Pick-ups – the toes are exercises that are done by picking up small items using your toes. This helps strengthen the muscles on the upper part of the feet. Three sets along with 15 seconds being held should be completed. Small items like marbles or stationary will work.
Ankle Pump – can be performed upwards or downwards. The workout can be completed both ways at the same time. This involves flexing the foot either towards the shin or to the ground. This makes the foot work very well, working large parts of the muscles.
For more information about Exercise for Your Feet, follow the link below.
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 care needs.
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Everyday Foot Care in the Winter
Winter is a season in which the feet are often neglected, as the feet are usually kept wrapped up in shoes. This makes winter foot care especially important. Keeping the feet healthy during the colder months is easy, however, with a few simple tips. Moisturizing the feet is one of the most important measures one can take to keep the feet looking fresh and healthy. Wearing thick shoes and thick socks during the winter is important to keep them protected from harsh temperatures, and can go a long way towards foot health. Pedicures and hot water treatments can help relax tense and weathered feet, while drinking plenty of water will help keep the skin hydrated.
Regardless of season or weather, everyday foot care should be practiced year round. For more information about everyday foot care, consult with podiatrist Dr. Moshe Hillel, D.P.M. of Advanced Foot Care NY. Dr. Hillel will provide you with the foot- and ankle information you seek.
Every Day 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. After all, 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 example.
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.
Also, 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 Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Obesity Causing Limb Amputation Epidemic in Scotland
According to the World Health Organization, as obesity increases in young adults and children, so do foot and ankle problems. These issues are more likely to occur because there is too much pressure being put on the lower extremities. Obese children are less likely to participate in physical activities due to the problems that may occur in the foot structure and often time, obese individuals end up with flat feet due to the pressure. Childhood obesity may have a negative effect on the feet over a period of time and may result in permanent issues with foot function. For children and young adults to reduce the chance of permanent foot problems, it is important to establish the proper amount of diet and exercise. For some, additional coaching may be necessary to overcome the challenges of obesity.
Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet if not taken care of properly. If you’re an obese individual and you’re concerned about your feet, talk to Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Footcare New York. Dr. Hillel can determine if your weight has caused you to develop any complications in your lower extremities and get you the care that you need.
Obesity and your Feet
Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.
Problems & Complications
Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.
Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.
Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot.
For more information about Obesity and Your Feet, follow the link below.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact our office located in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technologies to meet all your needs.
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Dark Chocolate May Help Patients with Circulation Difficulties
A study shows that polyphenols featured in dark chocolate can provide aid for some of the symptoms of peripheral artery disorder (PAD). The study was conducted by Sapienza University scientists and involved 20 participants. Half of the participants were given 1.5 ounces of dark chocolate while the other half were given milk chocolate to consume.
After eating the chocolate the test subjects were ordered to walk on treadmills for a set amount of time. As the scientists monitored the patients, they found that patients who consumed the dark chocolate had better circulation and were able to walk a little over 10% farther than those who had eaten the milk chocolate.
Poor circulation is difficult to live with. If you have poor circulation in your feet or ankles, consider calling Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Footcare New York. Dr. Hillel can treat your podiatric needs.
Poor Circulation in the Feet
Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.
Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. It usually restricts the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.
Causes
Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development.
It can also cause:
-muscle pain -numbness in legs
-cramps -skin discoloration
-weakness -slower nail & hair growth
-stiffness -erectile dysfunction
Those who have diabetes and or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, or who are over 50.
If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD, and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.
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 and ankle needs.
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Indiana Pacers Lose Last Quality Player to Sprained Ankle
Indiana Pacers’ best remaining player, David West, was escorted off the court after a sprained ankle occurred near the basket during a preseason game against the Dallas Mavericks. It appeared as though the forward’s foot rolled during an attempted layup to the point that his foot came out of his shoe, keeping him on the ground until his benched teammates came out to aid him. West was seen being carried to the locker room with the help of two of his team mates. Although it is only the preseason, many of the Pacers’ top players are already out on injury. If West is unable to play again for the season, things will not look so good for the rest of the team.
Some sprained ankles can be extremely worse than others, in any case it is always best to make sure your ankle is fully healed before engaging in strenuous activity. If your ankle is sprained, consult with Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Footcare New York. Dr. Hillel will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and answer all of your related questions.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Happen?
This type of injury takes place when the ligaments are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured; however, even the simple act of walking may cause a sprain. If footing is lost or you are walking on uneven terrain, ankle damage may occur.
What are the Symptoms?
• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin, depending on severity
Is there a Way to Care for my Ankle at Home?
Self-care for ankle sprains includes propping the ankle up and keeping it elevated, applying ice packs as needed, and remaining off your feet. Some may also find that wrapping the ankle with an ACE bandage and taking over-the-counter pain relievers are helpful. One of the most important things is to avoid further stress to the affected area.
Preventing a Sprain
• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits can aid in prevention
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast, which will allow you to walk while stabilizing the ankle.
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.
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Women more likely to develop Stress Fractures
Studies have shown that women are at a greater risk of developing stress fractures than men. Reasons for this increased risk include hormonal differences, increased bone density, and higher rates of inadequate nutrition. While athletes in general are at highest risk after changes in intensity, frequency or duration of their workouts; in women, irregular menstrual cycles and weight less than 75 percent of ideal body weight are factors that make for an increased risk for stress fractures. Stress fractures are small cracks that develop in the bone after being stressed, and are most common in the foot, ankle, and lower leg but can occur on bones throughout the body.
Stress fractures can become painful if left untreated for an extended period of time. If you would like assistance in treating a stress fracture in the foot or ankle, consult with Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Footcare New York. Dr. Hillel can determine the severity of your condition and provide you with quality care.
Coping with Podiatric Stress Fractures
Stress Fractures occur on the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken as a result of overexertion or underuse. As a result, the ankles and feet lose support when walking or running from the ground. Since these bones are not protected, they receive the full impact of each step. The stress on the feet causes the bones to form cracks.
What are Stress Fractures?
Stress Fractures are very common among those who are highly active and involved in sports or activities that make excessive use of their legs and feet. Stress fractures are especially common among:
-athletes (gymnasts, tennis players, basketball players)
-runners/joggers
-osteoporosis patients
-those who engage in high-intensity workouts
Stress Fracture Symptoms
Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures, and can be either constant or periodic. The pain is usually sharp or dull, accompanied by swelling and tenderness. Engagement in any kind of high impact activity will exacerbate the pain.
For more information about Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle, follow the link below.
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.
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Gout Occurs depending on Certain Temperatures
Students at Boston University School of Medicine conducted research experiment that shows a correlation between high temperatures and the reoccurrence of gout attacks. The head scientist, Tuhina Neogi, MD, PhD, and other faculty members started by gathering data from over 600 patients with suffering from gout using a questionnaire. The ages of the patients ranged from 21 – 88.
According to the data, it was discovered that temperatures of 70°-79° F were associated with a 43% increase of a potential gout attack occurring. When the temperature reached over 80° F the risk changed to 40%. Following their findings, researchers stated, “Patients with gout may be advised that under conditions of hot and/or dry weather, appropriate measures, such as increased water intake, should be considered to minimize the risk of recurrent gout attacks.”
The severity of gout attacks can vary, but they should always be granted proper medical care. For assistance with a foot condition like gout, consult with Dr. Moshe Hillel of Lovely Foot Associates, PC. Dr. Hillel can figure out why you keep getting flare-ups and work with you to treat the root of the problem.
What is gout?
Diseases of the feet can affect the whole body, and symptoms usually arise within the feet. A condition like gout can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable. The pain caused by this disease is often so agonizing that it requires elevation of the feet and some time off for them to fully recover.
Known in the past as “the disease of kings”, Gout is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Some common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. This buildup of acid is typically seen on the big toe of the foot and can cause inflammation, redness and swelling. Although these are common symptoms of the diseases others include joint pain, extreme fatigue and a high fever.
Gout can be treated by NSAIDs, which relieves pain and inflammation and other drugs which lowers the acid levels in the body.
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.
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Blistered Feet do not deter Natalie Imbruglia’s Hike across Switzerland
Natalie Imbruglia revealed extremely swollen and blistered feet after hiking over one hundred miles across Switzerland. As a part of the Strive challenge, the Australian actress and singer embarked on a seven-day journey across Switzerland on August 23rd. The challenge was in support of non-profit organization Virgin Money Giving, which is raising funds for projects dedicated to changing the way young people think. Imbruglia had a physiologist visit and tape up her beaten feet on the sixth day of her journey. The hike spanned from Switzerland’s south-western village of Verbier all the way to Zermatt in the Swiss Alps.
Untreated blisters can worsen and make mobility extremely difficult and painful. For quality blister treatment, see Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Footcare NY. Dr. Hillel will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and answer any of your related questions.
Blisters on the Feet
When tight or ill-fitting footwear is worn, many times a foot blister may develop. Blisters can even develop by constant rubbing from the shoe, often times leading to pain.
What is a Foot Blister?
A foot blister is a small pocket that is filled with fluid, forming on the upper most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid, and may lead to drainage of blood or pus if the area has become infected.
How do they Form?
Blisters of the feet are almost always the result of shoe rubbing and constant friction of the skin and material. Long periods of walking in shoes, sandals, or boots which don’t fit properly can result in a blister. Those who often have moisture or humidity in the feet, are prone to blister formation easily.
Prevention & Treatment
Proper care is vital to alleviate pain and prevent infection to the affected area of the foot. The best treatment is to leave them alone. New skin will develop under the blister and during the healing stages, your blister will pop.
For more information about Blisters on the Feet, follow the link below.
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 and ankle needs.
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