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It is a well-documented fact about pregnancy that the pregnant woman’s feet may be negatively impacted in some way. For example, a pregnant woman’s feet may commonly swell or become achy. If you are a pregnant woman experiencing these issues with your feet, seeing a podiatrist can help you treat these problems. Specifically, a podiatrist may recommend to you several different things for swelling or achy feet. First, the podiatrist might recommend that you reduce swelling in the feet and lower legs by elevating the feet. Second, the podiatrist might recommend that you wear more comfortable shoes that fit better. Third, the podiatrist might recommend that you use some kind of cooling cream made for the feet during pregnancy. Some of these creams are made with anti-inflammatory ingredients and promote anti-swelling. Some of them also create cooling sensations in the feet. Contact a podiatrist today for more information.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many women enjoy wearing high heels for the style. Studies have even indicated that women who frequently wear high heels have sensed a renewed confidence level, in addition gaining a few inches in height. Despite these seemingly positive aspects, high heels can be uncomfortable, possibly causing painful foot conditions. These types of shoes come in various shapes and colors, and it is possible that stylish, yet comfortable high heels can be worn. This can be done by choosing a shoe that has a lower heel and a platform under the toe, which can be successful in giving the illusion of wearing a larger heel. The chunky heel, also known as the block heel, is a popular choice among women who wear high heels for the majority of the day. The feet often feel better in these types of shoes, and harmful foot conditions may be prevented. If you have questions about what type of high heel is best to wear for the health of the foot, please ask a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking. 

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Bunions are more of a nuisance than they are painful. They can be uncomfortable while wearing shoes, and larger shoes may need to be purchased, which can accommodate the bunion. They are defined as a small bony protrusion that forms on the side of the big toe. It grows gradually, and many patients will eventually seek medical attention to restore normalcy. Swelling and redness can often accompany a bunion, and it may cause the other toes to shift toward each other. A bunion can be caused by genetic reasons, abnormal foot structures, or from frequently wearing shoes that are too tight. Some patients wear a pad on the side of the bunion, which may help to protect it while wearing shoes. If the bunion is severe and causes difficulty in completing daily tasks, surgery may be considered as an option for permanent removal. Bunions are treated by a podiatrist. If you are afflicted with one, please contact this type of doctor who can guide you toward the treatment that is correct for you.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Patients who have pain on the outside of their feet may have developed cuboid syndrome. This condition can happen by incurring an injury that affects the cuboid bone. This bone is one of seven tarsal bones that connect to the toes and heel and contributes to a normal gait or walking style. Cuboid syndrome may be prevalent among runners and ballet dancers due to its repetitive impact. Additionally, it may occur in people who run on uneven surfaces or wear shoes that do not have adequate support. The common symptoms that are experienced can include ankle pain that is sudden or gradual, and the entire foot may be tender or sore. An X-ray can help rule out a fracture. Typically, the activity that caused the pain must be stopped and the affected foot should be elevated as often as possible. The healing process may be accelerated when non-impact exercises are performed as this can help strengthen the entire foot. If you have pain along the outside of your foot please consult a podiatrist who can determine if cuboid syndrome is the cause as well as provide effective treatment techniques.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Peripheral artery disease involves the narrowing of blood vessels to the extremities, especially common in the lower legs. This occlusion is the result of a buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries, restricting blood flow to the legs, feet and toes. Risk factors for peripheral artery disease, or PAD, include being over 60 years old, smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol. The most common symptom is pain and weakness in the legs that may get better after resting. Other symptoms include numbness and a feeling of cold feet. Brittle toenails and toenails that grow slowly are other signs of PAD, along with sores or ulcers on the skin of the legs and feet that take a long time to heal. If peripheral artery disease goes undetected, it can cause extremely serious problems, including heart attack, stroke, or limb loss. To find out if you have PAD, please consult a podiatrist who can perform various imaging and other tests and discuss appropriate treatment options. 

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot can certainly cause toenail fungus. While athlete’s foot can seem like a minor skin ailment, it can lead to more challenging complications if it affects toenails. Athlete’s foot is a fungus that grows on the soles of the feet and in between the toes. It can cause the skin on the feet to crack, peel, and become flaky. Sometimes it will become red and itch and there will be burning and stinging sensations. Toenail fungus grows under the nails and lives off skin and keratin. This erodes the protein in the nails causing them to turn dark yellow. The nails can also become brittle, push away from the nail bed, and emit an unpleasant odor. If athlete’s foot is not treated early, it can spread to the toenails. Given that either of these things can turn into a more severe infection, particularly among diabetics and those with other health conditions, it is a good idea to see a podiatrist for treatment at the first sign of a fungal infection.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Pain in the big toe is not uncommon. Some patients notice that it gradually develops, and may occur suddenly for various reasons. Gout is a medical condition that causes sharp pain in the big toe, and the sensation is likened to crystals that lie between the joints. Having a bunion is another reason for pain to develop in the toes. It is defined as a bony lump that forms on the side of the big toe, and may shift the other toes toward each other. An ingrown toenail is a common condition that affects the toes, and an infection may cause unbearable toe pain. Some people can develop turf toe, which can happen from extensive stress that is placed on the toe from flexing the foot. This may be seen among athletes, and symptoms can include swelling and discoloration, in addition to pain and discomfort. If you have toe pain for any reason, please confer with a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and treat it accordingly.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Different toes from the big toe to the small pinky toe can all be impacted by various afflictions of the feet. Gout is one such foot condition that can impact the toes of the feet. In particular, gout can have a specific impact on the big toe. Gout is a specific kind of arthritis that is very common. It is an inflammatory condition that can affect the joints of the toes. When gout impacts the big toe an individual can experience severe, intense pains in the big toe joint. Swelling on the outside of the big toe is also common, as well as noticeable discoloration. Since the big toe plays such an important role in helping individuals walk, gout in the big toe can make motion very difficult. If you are prone to gout attacks and have developed this kind of arthritis in the big toe, it might also be common to experience some kind of swelling. If you are concerned about developing gout in the big toe, contact a podiatrist today for more information. 

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.