Dry, cracked heels are a common issue that can cause discomfort. These fissures in the skin often result from dryness, pressure, or various lifestyle and medical factors. While not usually a severe health concern, untreated cracked heels can become painful. This condition typically starts with dry skin. Daily activities such as standing, walking, or running exert pressure on the feet, causing the heel pads to expand. When combined with dryness, the skin can crack, creating openings for bacteria and viruses. Other potential causes of cracked heels include lifestyle choices that can include walking barefoot, taking hot showers, or using harsh soaps. Wearing ill-fitting shoes with poor support can also contribute to cracked heels. On a medical front, factors like diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, fungal infections, and hypothyroidism may also lead to developing cracked heels. Preventing cracked heels involves addressing dry skin and its underlying causes. Moisturizing is key, and products such as custom shoe inserts, padded socks, and heel relief sleeves can help protect and hydrate the skin. To treat existing dry, cracked heels, it is helpful to focus on hydration and protection. If this problem persists or causes pain, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a more advanced treatment plan.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Cary Golub, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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.

Laser therapy for fungal nails is an innovative treatment approach gaining popularity in the realm of podiatry. This non-invasive procedure harnesses the power of laser light to target and eliminate the fungal infection affecting the toenails. The laser's heat destroys the fungal cells while leaving the surrounding healthy tissue unharmed. This treatment is often preferred over oral antifungal medications as they can have side effects and may require prolonged use. One of the key advantages of laser therapy is its quick and virtually painless nature. Most patients require multiple sessions for optimal results, and there is typically no downtime after each session. Although laser therapy for fungal nails shows promise, it may not be effective for all cases, and results can vary from person to person. Ultimately, the goal is to restore healthy, clear nails and enhance overall foot health.  If you have developed toenail fungus, it is strongly suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can determine if laser therapy is the correct treatment method for you.

Laser treatment can be an effective way to get rid of toenail fungus. If you have any questions about laser treatment, consult with Cary Golub, DPM from New York. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment for fungal nails.

What Are Toenail Fungal Infections?

Onychomycosis, or fungal infection of the nail, is a relatively common and non-serious condition. Around 10 percent of U.S. citizens are afflicted with fungal nails. Common forms of fungus that infect the nail include dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds.

Symptoms of Toenail Fungal Infections Include:

• Nail thickening
• Brittleness of the nail
• Discoloration of the nail

Diagnosis for Fungal Nails

Fungal infections are diagnosed by fungal culture and microscopy. This will rule out any other conditions such as nail trauma, psoriasis, lichen planus, and onychogryphosis.

What Is Laser Treatment?

Laser treatment is a non-invasive, safe, quick, and painless procedure that uses the heat from a laser to kill fungus in the nail. Each infected nail is targeted with a laser for several minutes. The treatment is usually utilized several different times over a select period. During this time, a podiatrist will keep an eye on the infection.

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.

A foot fracture, also known as a broken foot, can vary in severity, from small hairline cracks to complete bone breaks. The human foot is a complex structure comprising 26 bones, making it susceptible to a variety of fracture types. Foot fractures often result from traumatic incidents, such as falls, sports injuries, or accidents. They can also occur due to repetitive stress on the foot over time, especially in athletes or individuals engaged in high-impact activities. Common symptoms of a foot fracture include pain, swelling, and bruising, and it can also be difficult to walk. A diagnosis typically involves physical examination, X-rays, or other imaging tests to determine the type and extent of the fracture. Treatment options can vary depending on the fracture's severity and location. Mild fractures may heal with rest, immobilization, and pain management. Conversely,  more severe cases may require casting, surgery, or other interventions to ensure proper healing that can restore normal foot function. In conclusion, a foot fracture is a break in one or more of the foot's many bones, often resulting from trauma or repetitive stress. If you have broken your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and offer the treatment plan that is right for you.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Cary Golub, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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

Children's feet are remarkable in their growth and development. Understanding the unique aspects of pediatric foot health can help parents and caregivers provide better care and support for their little ones. Babies are born with a soft and pliable structure in the foot called cartilage, which gradually ossifies into bones, and this process continues into late adolescence. Infants have a naturally wide and flat foot arch that develops into a more pronounced arch as they grow and their muscles strengthen. Additionally, children's feet contain approximately 200,000 sweat glands, which can make them more prone to odor and fungal infections. It is important to note that children often experience rapid growth spurts, and this can require frequent shoe replacements. Wearing ill-fitting shoes can result in foot problems, so regular foot measurements are crucial. Children's feet are a marvel of nature, constantly evolving as they mature. Paying attention to their unique characteristics and addressing issues early can promote healthy foot development and overall well-being. If you would like more information about specific details about children’s feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Cary Golub, DPM of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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.