Wound Care in Podiatry

Wound care is an important medical specialty focused on the treatment and management of acute and chronic wounds, especially in the feet where healing can be more complex. Patient preferences on wound care may reflect attitudes and beliefs, possibly based on education. Some types of foot wounds may develop from pressure, injury, poor circulation, or complications related to conditions such as diabetes. Risk factors include reduced blood flow, nerve damage, infection, and prolonged pressure on certain areas. Common types of foot wounds include ulcers, cuts, and slow healing sores that can worsen without proper care. A podiatrist plays a key role by providing debridement, infection control, and pressure relief to promote healing. Early treatment helps prevent serious complications. If you have any type of foot wound, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can take your preferences into account and  offer appropriate treatment solutions. 

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 Cary Golub, DPM from New York. 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 Williston Park, and Long Beach, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Facts About Gout

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the big toe, but also the foot and ankle. Symptoms include sudden, severe pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected joint, making walking or standing difficult. Risk factors include a diet high in purines, obesity, genetics, alcohol consumption, and certain medical conditions. Repeated gout attacks can lead to joint damage, decreased mobility, and long-term discomfort. A podiatrist can diagnose gout, recommend lifestyle adjustments, prescribe medication, and provide care to reduce pain and prevent future attacks. Early intervention helps protect joint health and improve mobility. If you have gout symptoms in your big toe or foot, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Cary Golub, DPM from New York. 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 Williston Park, and Long Beach, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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It's Time for Beautiful Feet

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

Healthy Feet Matter More With Age

Foot care becomes especially important as people grow older because the skin, joints, and circulation of the feet can change over time. Small problems such as dry skin, thick nails, or poorly fitting shoes can quickly turn into painful conditions if they are not addressed early. Maintaining healthy feet helps support balance, mobility, and independence. One of the most important steps is wearing properly fitting shoes that provide support, cushioning, and enough room for the toes. Shoes that are too tight or worn out can lead to pressure points, blisters, or joint pain. Daily hygiene is also essential. Feet should be washed with mild soap, dried carefully between the toes, and moisturized to prevent cracking skin. Toenails should be trimmed straight across and not cut too short to help avoid ingrown nails. Regular foot checks are helpful for noticing redness, swelling, or skin changes early. If you are experiencing foot discomfort or changes in your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Cary Golub, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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-threatening 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 offices located in Williston Park, and Long Beach, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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What Causes Heel Spurs?

Heel spurs are bony growths that form on the calcaneus, or heel bone, after long-term stress or irritation. These spurs often develop when repeated pulling from tight soft tissue at the back of the ankle places strain on the bone. Eventually, the body responds by laying down excess calcium, creating a pointed growth that looks like a spur. Heel spurs can form underneath the heel or at the back, sometimes causing a visible lump. Symptoms include sharp pain with the first steps in the morning, a lingering dull ache during the day, stiffness, numbness, or thickened skin from friction. A podiatrist can assess foot alignment, evaluate walking patterns, and order X-rays to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options include custom orthotics, bracing, anti-inflammatory care, or surgery when necessary. If you have pain from heel spurs that affect daily activities, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

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 Cary Golub, DPM from New York. 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 Williston Park, and Long Beach, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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