Foot Conditions
Tea Tree Oil as Possible Solution for TreatingAthlete’s Foot
Tea tree oil may be one potential alternative solution for treating milder cases of athlete’s foot, according to Jessica J. Krant, clinical assistant professor of dermatology at SUNY Downstate Medical Center. A study published in 2002 by the Austalasian Journal of Dermatology found that “twice-daily use of a 25 or 50 percent tea tree solution for four weeks cleared up athlete’s foot for more than half the people who used it,” but a certain side effect for 4 percent of participants was the development of a rash in response. Tea tree oil has certain antiseptic, antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help clear up the fungus that causes mild athlete’s foot.
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 consult with Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Foot Care, NY. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
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 helping you figure out which treatment options are best for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Understanding the Plantar Fasciitis Condition
Plantar fasciitis, a condition of the feet which causes arch pain, occurs when the band of connective tissue that stretches across the arch of the foot, called the plantar fascia, becomes inflamed and irritated. There are many different causes of plantar fasciitis, including sprains, muscle strains, overuse, and arthritis. Extended stress on the arch area caused by strenuous activity can also lead to plantar fasciitis.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, consult with Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Foot Care, NY. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
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 office located in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Morton’s Neuroma, a Metatarsalgia Condition
Metatarsalgia is characterized as forefoot pain in which either a single or multiple factors can cause the condition. Morton’s neuroma is one particular metatarsalgia condition in which fibrous tissue begins growing on nerves between the third and fourth metatarsals. This can lead to pain and discomfort. Morton’s neuroma can be caused by intense contact sports or ill-fitting shoes. Other symptoms of the condition involve numbness, tingling, or burning in between the toes.
Morton’s Neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma consult with Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Foot Care, NY. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.
What Increases the Chances of having Morton’s Neuroma?
- -Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
- -Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
- -Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities
Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Rafael dos Anjos Recovering from Broken Foot Injury
Since UFC lightweight champion Rafael dos Anjosbroke his foot, he expects to be in recovery for six more weeks, which he started in early March. He sustained the injury while training and had to pull out of the match against Conor McGregor at UFC 196. Nate Diaz took his place. He posted pictures on his Instagram indicating that his feet were “healing up well,” and he was having his foot cast changed.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. To learn more, consult with Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Foot Care, NY. Our doctorwill assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
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 (foot)
- 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 office located in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Kavon Frazier Unknowingly Played through Stress Fracture
Kavon Frazier wasn’t aware he was playing last season with a stress fracture foot injury. The Central Michigan safety had a standard X-ray performed on his feet by NFL officials, which determined that there was a fracture in his right foot. “I had no idea, no physical pain,” said Frazier. Frazier planned to have his injury re-examined before making any final decisions.
Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, consult with Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Foot Care, NY. Our doctorwill assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
The Stress Fractures occur on the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use. Then the feet and ankles lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection the bones receive the full impact of each step. The stress on the feet causes cracks to form in the bones, thus called stress fractures.
What are Stress Fractures?
Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:
-runners
-people affected with Osteoporosis
-play tennis or basketball
-gymnastics
-high impact workouts
Symptoms
Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures, and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves in high impact will aggravate pain.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Michael Kastama, the “Barefoot Guy”
Michael Kastama is known famously around University of Washington as the “barefoot guy,” walking around campus without any footwear. Kastama grew up barefoot, and currently is an avid runner who runs barefoot. He says “forgoing shoes helped his flatfoot and made him faster.” Modern research about barefoot running is inconclusive, but there have been theories that suggest that going barefoot could “mellow the spike in force on a runner’s foot and reduc[e] pressure on a runner’s knees.”
Barefoot running has its own share of benefits and disadvantages. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, consult with Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Foot Care, NY. Our doctorwill assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
Barefoot Running
The Impact of Barefoot Running
-Running without shoes changes the motion of your running, as most running is done by landing on the heel of the feet.
-Running barefoot requires a different way of running; the landing is done on the front part of the feet.
The Advantages of Barefoot Running
-When running and landing on the front feet, the impact on the feet and ankle is reduced, this can reduce stress injuries.
-It strengthens muscles in the feet and ankles and the lower legs.
-Balance of the body is improved and there is a greater sensory input from the feet to the rest of the body.
The Drawbacks of Barefoot Running
-No protection while running, makes it likely that runners will land on sharp objects and scrapes, bruises and cuts on the feet will result.
-Blisters may form.
-Possibility of plantar fascia problems.
-Risk of getting Achilles tendonitis.
So what can runners do to make barefoot running safe? It’s best to make a slow transition from running shoes to barefoot running. Once the feet begin to adjust, try walking, then jogging and gradually increasing the distance. Minimalist running shoes may also be an option.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Heel and Foot Pain Become More Common As We Age
As you age, you may start experiencing heel pain or pain in your feet. There are many different reasons, as your muscles and joints are prone to wear and tear as you get older. According to high50.com, “the fatty pads on the bottom of the feet [begin] losing their lovely cushioning effect as we age.” Arthritis and plantar fasciitis are also commonly known conditions associated with aging that can cause pain and inflammation.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles consult with Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Foot Care, NY. Our doctorwill assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
The Elderly and their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet, and can hide many life threating medical conditions.
Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
Shoes that don’t fit properly
Pressure sores
Loss of circulation in legs & feet
Edema & swelling of feet and ankles
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Treating Gout, the “Disease of Kings”
Gout has historically been known as “the disease of kings,” affecting those who were wealthy and could afford to drink and eat excessively. However, gout cases have been increasing since the 1960s, and the condition can be very debilitating for your body’s joints. Gout occurs when uric acid isn’t filtered out properly in the body and uric acid levels increase, leading to joint pain. The best way to treat gout is managing your diet. Opt for eating foods that can help reduce your uric acid levels, such as cherries, milk, and coffee. Avoid high-sugar foods, red meat and seafood, and alcohol.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, consult with Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Foot Care, NY. Our doctorwill assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
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 office located in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Treating Your Blisters
Anyone can get blisters on their feet, so how’s the best way to cope with them, especially if you plan on doing a lot of physical activity? Treatment options for your blisters can include putting products like Vaseline on your blisters, to provide protection and prevent further rubbing from your shoes. Other solutions include coconut oil, a liquid band-aid, thick socks, aloe vera, and band-aids designed specifically for blisters. Don’t pick or try to pop your blister when it’s not ready, and make sure to let it air out after your physical activity.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, consult with Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Foot Care, NY. Our doctorwill assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
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 office located in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
More...
Patrick Beverley Sustains Sprained Ankle Against the Clippers
Patrick Beverley of the Houston Rockets left the game against the Los Angeles Clippers with a sprained ankle. Beverley seems to be in recovery and will have about a day off before his team has to play against the Detroit Pistons. Beverley’s status was currently unknown at the time, but Jason Terry and Ty Lawson will serve as replacements if Beverley’s condition is worse than it seems.
Ankle sprains are common, but need immediate attention. If you are experiencing pain, contact Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Foot Care, NY. Our doctorwill treat your foot and ankle needs.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What are the Symptoms?
- Mild to moderate bruising
- Limited mobility
- Swelling
- Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)
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. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Combating Athlete’s Foot
For those who may think they have Athlete’s foot, make sure to see your podiatrist first. If you want to try self-diagnosing or treating your feet first to see what condition you may have, make sure to apply your medication treatment on a consistent basis, even after the condition has healed. The root of Athlete’s foot can exist in the layers underneath the skin as well. Remember to also take proper care of your feet by washing and drying them daily, and using powder to absorb moisture. Another tip is to wear acrylic socks rather than cotton socks.
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. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Foot Care, NY. Our doctorwill 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 helping you figure out which treatment options are best for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Probiotics Can Help Your Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms
Taking probiotics may help with treating joint pain and joint disability, or rheumatoid arthritis. Recent research from the Arthritis Foundation suggests that the good bacteria in probiotics help reduce inflammation and joint pain. Probiotics aid in digestion and help break down and filter the toxins in the body, preventing the spread of inflammation. The healthy bacteria found in probiotics, Lactobacillus casei, is effective in reducing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms in patients, as suggested by the National center for Biotechnological Information.
Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, consult with Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Foot Care, NY. Our doctorwill assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
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.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Feet Play an Important Role in Keeping the Body Healthy
When it comes to keeping your body in shape, it is important to keep your feet in healthy and safe conditions to avoid any potential injuries. When starting a new workout, start gradually to avoid strains or stress fractures. Wearing the correct fitting shoes and socks with support can help reduce heel pain and avoid blisters. Using the proper technique during your workout is vital in preventing injury. Always remember to wear shoes in public places and to wear flip-flops in public showers or near public swimming pools to avoid foot fungus or other infectious diseases.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, consult with Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Foot Care, NY. Our doctorwill assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
Exercise for Your Feet
Exercise for your feet can help you to gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important and often we forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate not to have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure its good health in the long run.
Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rise, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, also flexing the toes and involving the shins may help too. It is best to speak with your doctor regarding how to do these fitness steps and how often is right for you. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different and it varies from individual to individual to determine what should be done for you to maintain strength in your feet.
Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.