July 2023

Symptoms that are associated with poor circulation can include cold or discolored feet, and there may be numbness or a tingling sensation. Poor circulation can come from closed, hardened, or narrowed blood vessels that can prevent adequate blood, oxygen, and nutrients from being transported through the body. There may be underlying reasons that can lead to poor circulation. These can include Raynaud’s disease, which can limit blood flow to the fingers and toes, and acrocyanosis, causing the toes to turn blue from constricting blood vessels. Additionally, poor circulation is common among diabetic patients as a result of damaged blood vessels. Poor circulation may also affect people who smoke, are inactive, or who have high cholesterol or blood pressure. Mild relief may be found when the feet are massaged, relaxation techniques are practiced, and physical activity is increased. If you have symptoms of poor circulation, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you the correct treatment options.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Cary Golub, DPM of New York. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be 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. This can restrict 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, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those 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.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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.

Distance runners often experience problems with their toenails, and the three main types are thick nails, bruised nails, and toenail loss. While in many cases the appearance of thick toenails can indicate a fungal infection, in runners they can also be a result of pressure from their shoes and socks, or wearing shoes that don’t fit properly. A toenail that looks blue or black is likely to be caused by a bruise underneath it. The change in color is caused by blood forming under the nail, often from direct trauma to the toe. In some cases, the blood will need to be drained in a medical procedure conducted by a podiatrist. Many runners are surprised when one of their toenails falls off. In most cases, a new nail will form. To avoid losing a toenail, experts recommend being sure that your running shoes fit well, keeping toenails properly trimmed, and making sure your shoes are completely dry before a run. If you notice a bruise, a thick nail, or a loose toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist sooner rather than later, before the matter worsens and prohibits you from running. 

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. 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

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

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.

Research has shown that approximately 25 percent of Americans who are 65 years or older fall every year. Physical harm may happen as a result of falling, and the feet are often affected.  A broken foot or toe are common injuries after a fall has occurred, which can limit the ability to complete daily activities. People who fall and are fortunate enough to not become hurt may develop a fear of falling. This can lead to becoming inactive and sedentary, which may be a gateway into other physical conditions. There are simple methods that can be implemented that can effectively prevent falling. These can include having routine physical and eye examinations that help update existing medications and eyeglasses. Additionally, it is beneficial to install grab bars in the toilet and shower area and to improve lighting in the household. If you require more knowledge about fall prevention strategies, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with useful tips on foot protection.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Cary Golub, DPM from New York. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious 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.

When a heel becomes injured, it is common for it to look bruised and swollen. This can happen from overuse or from participating in high-impact sports, and it can be painful. Resting the affected foot can often help, in addition to making sure to wear shoes that fit well. It is important to ensure that shoes have enough room in the heel area to avoid excessive pressure, and it is beneficial to wear shoes that are appropriate for the activity being done. Using shoe inserts can provide extra support to cushion the sore heel, and wearing shoes with a low heel can shift the foot forward onto the ball of the foot. This is often effective in taking the pressure off the heel. If it is not possible to stay off the feet for the time required for healing, using crutches or a knee scooter can help with mobility without putting excess weight on the foot. Because there are so many reasons a heel can become bruised, it is important to be aware if the bruise worsens. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can examine your foot and administer proper treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Cary Golub, DPM of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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.