December 2022

It is agreed upon by medical professionals that following a daily foot care routine is a necessity for diabetics. First, it is important to examine the feet and toes each day for cuts, sores, and bruises. Don’t forget about the soles of the feet, which may be examined by holding a mirror to them. If you are unable to carry out this inspection, it is suggested that you ask a family member or caregiver to help. Look specifically for red, blue, or black areas on the feet. Redness can signal irritation from shoes that are too tight, while blue or black areas can be caused by bruising or blood flow problems. Blisters may be caused from the skin rubbing against the inside of a shoe. It is important not to pierce a blister. If it turns red, oozes, or doesn't heal after four days, it is wise to seek the help of a podiatrist. Washing and thoroughly drying the feet is essential as moisture between the toes can invite bacterial or fungal infections. If you notice sores that take a long time to heal, please consult a podiatrist as quickly as possible, as these may develop into ulcers. Diabetics are wise to have regular checkups with a podiatrist to monitor the health of their feet.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Cary Golub, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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 and ankle needs.

There is no mistaking what a bunion is. It is a common foot deformity that can develop from wearing shoes that are too tight and is noticeable by the small bony protrusion that is seen on the side of the big toe. Bunions that are left untreated may grow and push the other toes toward each other. This can present difficulty in walking and medical attention is often sought for comfort and relief. Research has shown a bunion may also be caused by genetic factors in addition to medical conditions such as various types of arthritis. People who are afflicted with a bunion may need to purchase larger shoes to accommodate it and mild relief may be found when a protective pad is worn over it. Bunions do not go away on their own and it is strongly suggested that a podiatrist be consulted who can prescribe orthotics or recommend surgery for permanent removal.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Cary Golub, DPM of New York. Our doctor 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 our offices located in Williston Park, and Long Beach, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a foot condition that can be uncomfortable and unsightly. It is caused by a fungus that lives in warm environments such as public swimming pools, shower room floors, and locker rooms. The symptoms that often accompany this can include itchiness between the toes and on the bottom of the foot, and the skin can be white and soggy. Some people have cracked skin with this ailment, in addition to small blisters. Patients who have a weakened immune system may be prone to getting athlete’s foot, in addition to having poor foot hygiene. Some people have learned to avoid athlete’s foot by wearing appropriate shoes while in public places, and refraining from sharing towels, shoes, and socks. It may help to use foot powder inside the shoes, which may aid in prevention. If you have this foot condition, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can prescribe medication for complete healing.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Cary Golub, DPM from New York. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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.

Research has shown that injuries may be prevented among runners. It is easy to experience unwanted foot conditions from running mishaps, and simple methods can be implemented to help prevent running injuries. Common injuries that affect many runners can include blisters, a pulled muscle in the lower leg, and cuts from falling. Additionally, running injuries can be caused by wearing shoes that do not fit correctly and running on uneven surfaces. Many people overtrain, in addition to improperly warming up and cooling down, which are prime reasons for running injuries to happen. Helpful prevention tips can include drinking plenty of water before, during, and after running, while gradually increasing speed and mileage. Running injuries can affect the feet, and a podiatrist can inform you of effective running prevention techniques, address concerns, and answer any questions you may have.

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Cary Golub, DPM of New York. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

• Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
• Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
• “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
• Cross-Training is Crucial
• Wear Proper Running Shoes
• Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury

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.