Ingrown toenails develop when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. Causes include improper nail trimming, tight shoes, toe injuries, or naturally curved nails. The area may feel sore, swollen, and, in more severe cases, may produce drainage or pus. When conservative treatments like warm soaks, antibiotics, or lifting the nail fail, a podiatrist may recommend a minor surgical procedure. One common option is partial nail avulsion, where only the ingrown portion is removed. Another method is a wedge resection, where the side of the nail and a portion of the nail bed are removed to stop the problematic section from growing back. These in-office procedures are quick, performed under local anesthesia, and typically offer long-term relief. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine if surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Doctors of Utica. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden and severe pain, swelling, and redness. The big toe is often affected, and may be so painful that even the weight of a bed sheet can be unbearable. Acute gout refers to the sudden onset of intense symptoms, usually affecting one joint, most commonly the big toe. These episodes may last several days before subsiding. Chronic gout develops when uric acid levels remain elevated over time, leading to frequent flare-ups, joint damage, and the formation of hard deposits called tophi. Kidney disease is closely connected to gout because the kidneys are responsible for filtering uric acid from the blood. When kidney function declines, uric acid can accumulate, increasing the risk of gout. Similarly, chronic gout may contribute to kidney damage over time, creating a cycle that worsens both conditions. If you have symptoms of gout, it is strongly suggested that you include a podiatrist on your care team who can help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot Doctors of Utica. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

Cracked heels can be more than just a cosmetic concern. They may signal an underlying nutritional issue, particularly a vitamin deficiency. Vitamins play an essential role in maintaining skin health and elasticity. When the body lacks essential nutrients, such as vitamin E, vitamin C, and certain B vitamins, the skin may become dry, rough, and prone to cracking. These deficiencies affect the skin's ability to repair itself and retain moisture, which leads to fissures around the heels. People with poor diets or malabsorption issues are at greater risk. In addition to moisturizing and wearing supportive footwear, addressing any nutritional shortfalls through diet or supplements may help improve the condition of the heels. Cracked heels can be uncomfortable and unsightly. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot Doctors of Utica. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

Heel ulcers can start small but often grow into serious wounds that are slow to recover. These open sores usually appear on the back of the heel and may begin with redness, dryness or thickened skin. People with diabetes or poor circulation are especially at risk, as the skin on their feet can break down more easily. Pressure from walking or shoes that do not fit well can make the problem worse. Over time, the skin may crack, drain or develop a scab that never quite closes. Treatment involves relieving pressure, cleaning the area carefully and often using special dressings or prescribed medications. In more advanced cases, a podiatrist may need to remove dead tissue to encourage healing. If you notice a sore on your heel that does not improve, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot Doctors of Utica. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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