Tuesday, 11 February 2025 00:00

Peripheral arterial disease, or PAD, occurs when the arteries in your legs become narrowed or blocked due to a buildup of fatty deposits, known as atherosclerosis. This reduces blood flow to the lower limbs, which can cause pain, cramping, or fatigue during activities like walking. PAD not only affects mobility, but can also worsen atherosclerosis over time. As blood flow decreases, tissues in the legs and feet receive less oxygen and nutrients, leading to slower healing, higher risks of infections, and even tissue damage, in severe cases. If you have diabetes or smoke, your risk of PAD and its complications increases significantly. Early detection and management of PAD can help slow the progression of atherosclerosis and protect your health. If you are experiencing leg pain, numbness, or wounds that are slow to heal, it is strongly suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation and care.

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 Foot Doctors of Utica. 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 Herkimer, and New Hartford, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Tuesday, 04 February 2025 00:00

A toenail falling off due to a fungal infection, known as onychomycosis, occurs when fungi invade the nail bed. This causes the nail to thicken, discolor, and eventually separate from the nail bed. This condition often starts with mild symptoms like discoloration, white or yellow streaks, and a brittle texture. As the infection worsens, the nail may become painful, thickened, and eventually detach. Treatment for a fungal toenail infection typically involves antifungal medications, which can be topical, applied directly to the nail, or oral, prescribed by a doctor. In some cases, a podiatrist may recommend laser treatment to target and eliminate the fungus. If the nail has already fallen off, additional treatments may be needed to protect the underlying nail bed and promote healthy regrowth. A podiatrist can provide an accurate diagnosis, offer tailored treatment plans, and monitor progress. If you have had a toenail come off or are experiencing a toenail fungal infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for proper treatment and care.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Doctors of Utica. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

  • Warped or oddly shaped nails
  • Yellowish nails
  • Loose/separated nail
  • Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
  • Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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.

 

Read more about Toenail Fungus
Tuesday, 28 January 2025 00:00

Complex injuries of the foot and ankle involve multiple fractures, dislocations, or significant damage to soft tissues, such as ligaments, tendons, or nerves. These injuries are considered complex due to their intricate anatomy, weight-bearing function, and the challenge of restoring mobility, stability, and alignment. Polytrauma, where multiple injuries are affecting different areas of the body, can complicate foot and ankle injuries further, as they may be overlooked initially while treating life-threatening conditions. Such scenarios often occur in car accidents, falls, or severe sports injuries, where the foot and ankle are subject to extreme forces. Addressing complex injuries requires prompt medical attention from specialists such as podiatrists. Advanced imaging like CT or MRI scans may be necessary to fully assess the damage. Treatment typically involves surgery, targeted exercises, and long-term care to optimize recovery and restore function. If you have sustained any foot or ankle injury, it is strongly suggested that you seek care from a podiatrist.

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, 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.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

  • Broken bones
  • Muscle strains
  • Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
  • Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

  • Bruising
  • Inflammation/ Swelling
  • Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.

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.

Read more about Foot and Ankle Fractures
Thursday, 23 January 2025 00:00

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