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(718) 891-2706

2616 Ave U | Brooklyn, NY 11229

(718) 278-8020

4105 31st Ave | Astoria, NY 11103
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December 2023

Tuesday, 26 December 2023 00:00

The Growth of Plantar Warts on the Feet

Plantar warts, though usually harmless, can be quite bothersome. These skin growths typically appear on the soles of your feet and can be painful, especially when walking. They are caused by a virus that accelerates the growth of the top layer of skin, resulting in the formation of warts. While plantar warts generally disappear on their own over months or even years, they can be a source of discomfort and concern. These warts are extremely contagious and can spread easily. Not only can you re-infect yourself by touching a wart and then another part of your body, but you can also transmit the virus to others by sharing personal items, like towels or socks. In most cases, plantar warts do not require treatment. However, if they cause you pain or multiply, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Jill Einhorn, DPM and James Einhorn, DPM. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Brooklyn and Astoria, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Plantar Warts
Tuesday, 19 December 2023 00:00

Peripheral Artery Disease and Foot Care

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a vascular condition characterized by the narrowing or blockage of arteries, predominantly in the legs, resulting in reduced blood flow to the feet. This condition, often associated with hardening of the arteries, can significantly impact foot health and lead to various symptoms. Symptoms of peripheral artery disease may include leg pain, cramping, numbness, and skin discoloration. Generally, these symptoms develop when approximately 70 percent of the artery is blocked. Aging, smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, obesity, physical inactivity, and family history are contributing factors. Men are generally more susceptible to PAD than women. Peripheral artery disease also can result from fibromuscular dysplasia, inflammation, or external pressure from nearby masses. The severity and nature of symptoms depend on the affected artery, degree of blockage, and whether it is a gradual narrowing or sudden blockage. Someone with peripheral artery disease may experience coldness in the lower leg or foot, numbness or weakness, absent or a weak pulse in the legs or feet, and shiny skin on the legs. One of the main dangers is in the formation of sores on the toes, feet, or legs that will not heal. These may develop into ulcers, which can engender severe foot or toe problems. If you have peripheral artery disease symptoms that are affecting your lower limbs and feet, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist as a member of your medical team. 

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 Jill Einhorn, DPM and James Einhorn, DPM. 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 our offices located in Brooklyn and Astoria, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Peripheral Artery Disease
Thursday, 14 December 2023 00:00

Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!

Tuesday, 12 December 2023 00:00

High Heels and Foot Deformities

Wearing high heels can have long-lasting effects on your feet and overall health. While they may be a fashionable choice, prolonged use can lead to various problems. Ankle injuries and stress fractures can occur even with short-term wear, especially if you are not accustomed to wearing heels. Additionally, high heels can contribute to arthritis in the knees and foot joints due to altered posture and gait. If you already have foot issues such as hammertoes, ingrown toenails, corns, or bunions, wearing high heels can exacerbate these problems. Pump bumps, or Haglund deformities, may form on the back of the heel due to friction. High heels can also lead to plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathies, and calf problems.. If you enjoy wearing high heels and you would like to learn about how to protect the health of your feet and prevent foot deformities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for professional advice.

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 Jill Einhorn, DPM and James Einhorn, DPM. 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 our offices located in Brooklyn and Astoria, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Effect of High Heels on the Feet

Corns, those small, often painful patches of thickened skin, are a common foot woe with various underlying causes. One frequent instigator is wearing ill-fitting footwear, particularly shoes that squeeze or rub against certain areas of the foot, creating friction and pressure. High heels, narrow shoes, or those with inadequate cushioning can contribute to the development of corns. Structural abnormalities, such as bunions or hammertoes, alter the distribution of weight on the feet, leading to increased friction and corn formation. Repetitive actions or activities that place excessive pressure on specific areas of the feet can also trigger corns. Additionally, individuals with gait abnormalities may be more prone to developing corns due to altered foot mechanics. Understanding these common causes allows for proactive measures, such as choosing proper footwear and addressing structural issues. If you have developed a corn on your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can treat it accordingly and offer appropriate prevention techniques.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Jill Einhorn, DPM and James Einhorn, DPM. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

  • Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
  • Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
  • Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Brooklyn and Astoria, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Understanding Corns and Calluses
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