Items filtered by date: August 2023

Athlete's foot, a common fungal skin infection known as tinea, is often caused by dermatophytes that live on the skin's surface. These fungi thrive in warm and damp places, like public swimming pools, gyms, and locker rooms, which are spots that athletes often visit. While anyone can get athlete's foot because it is highly contagious, men tend to get it more than women. The fungi also live in places on the skin that are warm and moist, such as the areas between the toes where sweat collects. Athlete's foot can spread when shoes rub against the skin, creating openings for the fungus to enter. Wearing closed shoes or dirty socks on a regular basis also might make you more prone to this condition. The athlete’s foot fungus can easily be spread by touching infected skin directly or indirectly. Walking on wet floors where the fungi live or sharing towels that may be infected can spread the infection. If athlete’s foot infections are advanced, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Ernest Levi, DPM from Grand Central Podiatry.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

To prevent foot pain and related issues, managing excessive weight can reduce stress on the feet and lower the risk of joint pain. Prioritize wearing supportive footwear over style, and avoid non-supportive flip flops and uncomfortable high heels known for causing toe deformities, bunions, and ankle injuries. Choose shoes that fit well and have adequate arch support and non-slip soles. Engage in calf stretches and avoid overexertion in high impact activities such as running that can help to prevent plantar fasciitis. Balance can be Improved by alternating standing and sitting. Maintain toenail care to prevent ingrown nails, keeping them at a moderate length and wearing roomy shoes. If you have foot pain, wounds, or infections, especially if you are diabetic, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for care.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Ernest Levi, DPM from Grand Central Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis is one of the leading foot conditions among Americans causing heel pain. The condition is characterized by the aggravation of the plantar fascia. Depending on your particular case of plantar fasciitis, a medical professional might recommend that you perform any number of stretches to mitigate the pain. For example, a medical professional, such as a podiatrist, might recommend that to combat plantar fasciitis, you can perform toe extensions. This stretch can be performed by putting the affected foot behind the other in a standing position. Then, contract the calf muscles and lift the back heel to essentially extend the toes. If you are someone that is living with plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for an exam and treatment options.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Ernest Levi, DPM  from Grand Central Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

A foot stress fracture is a hairline crack in a bone caused by repetitive stress or overuse. This common injury primarily affects the weight-bearing bones of the foot, such as the metatarsals. Athletes, runners, and those who engage in high-impact activities are particularly susceptible. Common symptoms of a stress fracture of the foot can include a gradual onset of pain that worsens during activities and eases with rest. Swelling surrounding the affected area often accompanies a stress fracture, it may be tender when touched. Some people that develop stress fractures may notice bruising near the fracture site, and it can be difficult to walk. The pain often subsides with rest but can return when activities resume. Early diagnosis is crucial in preventing further damage. Treatment typically involves rest, immobilization with a cast or brace, and modified activity. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary. It is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist if you have developed a stress fracture.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Ernest Levi, DPM from Grand Central Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A common reason why an ingrown toenail develops can be from wearing shoes that are too tight. It may also happen as a result of improperly trimming the toenails, or possibly from genetic reasons. An ingrown toenail is defined as the toenail growing into the skin instead of over it. It can become red and infected and is generally painful. When the toenail is trimmed in a curved fashion instead of straight across, it can become infected. Some people find it can help to soak the affected foot in warm water, followed by using a small piece of cotton to gently pull the skin away from the nail. While this can temporarily provide mild relief, many patients prefer to visit a podiatrist who can provide effective treatment for permanent relief. Ingrown toenails can be prevented by wearing shoes that fit correctly with plenty of room for the toes to move freely in. If you have developed this painful foot condition, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can perform minor surgery to repair or remove the nail if needed.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Ernest Levi, DPM of Grand Central Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.