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Monday, 14 December 2020 00:00
Toenail Fungus Treatments
A fungal infection of the toenails can be unsightly. Infected toenails may have white or yellow patches of discoloration, be chalky, or have a crumbly texture. In more severe infections, the toenails may thicken and become deformed and discolored. There are several treatments available for toenail fungus. A podiatrist may prescribe oral antifungal medications, which have to be taken for several months to get full results. Topical treatments, such as medicated nail polishes, are applied directly to the affected nails and can also help treat toenail fungus. Sometimes, both treatments can be used simultaneously. For more information about treatment for toenail fungus, please consult with a podiatrist.
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 Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor 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 office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Monday, 07 December 2020 00:00
Scans to Detect Peripheral Artery Disease
Computed tomography angiography (CTA) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) are two kinds of noninvasive imaging studies that can be used to visualize the blood flow in different areas of your body, including your lower limbs. A podiatrist may request that you undergo one of these imaging studies if they suspect that you might have peripheral artery disease, a condition that causes poor circulation to the lower limbs. Both of these tests require the patient to lie down on a motorized bed that moves through a scanner, which takes images of your lower legs. CTAs require the injection of an intravenous contrasting agent and the use of radiation in order to see your blood flow, while an MRA may or may not require the use of a contrasting agent, but does not use radiation. For more information about these and other tests to assess blood flow in the lower limbs, please speak with a podiatrist.
Vascular testing plays an important part in diagnosing disease like peripheral artery disease. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, or diabetes, consult with Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Vascular Testing?
Vascular testing checks for how well blood circulation is in the veins and arteries. This is most often done to determine and treat a patient for peripheral artery disease (PAD), stroke, and aneurysms. Podiatrists utilize vascular testing when a patient has symptoms of PAD or if they believe they might. If a patient has diabetes, a podiatrist may determine a vascular test to be prudent to check for poor blood circulation.
How Is it Conducted?
Most forms of vascular testing are non-invasive. Podiatrists will first conduct a visual inspection for any wounds, discoloration, and any abnormal signs prior to a vascular test.
The most common tests include:
- Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) examination
- Doppler examination
- Pedal pulses
These tests are safe, painless, and easy to do. Once finished, the podiatrist can then provide a diagnosis and the best course for treatment.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Monday, 30 November 2020 00:00
What Is the Ideal Shoe Like?
Finding the right shoes is a very important task, but sometimes it can be challenging. What should you look for when shopping for shoes? What should you avoid? We can come closer to answering these questions by describing the features that an ideal shoe should have, and why these features are important. An ideal shoe should fit snugly. You may want to look for shoes that have laces, velcro fasteners, or buckles, as well as a snug, stiff back to keep your feet from sliding when you walk. The shoe should be the correct size. Look for a shoe that leaves you with about a half inch of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. The inside of the shoe should be supportive and free of irritants. Look for an arch shape that supports your foot and a smooth lining without any rough seams. What about high heels? While they may look nice, excessively high heels can hurt your feet. When shopping for shoes, select heels that are no taller than 1.5 inches. For more information on finding the right shoes for you, consult with a podiatrist.
It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Proper Shoe Fitting
Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.
Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting
- Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
- Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
- Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
- Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
- Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot
The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Wednesday, 25 November 2020 00:00
Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
Monday, 23 November 2020 00:00
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
A broken toe can be a very painful condition. It may happen as the result of a sudden injury, or from repetitive overuse while running or playing sports. Weakened bones, due to conditions like osteoporosis, can also lead to toe fractures. There are several symptoms of a broken bone that you should be aware of. If you have been suddenly injured, you may hear a popping or cracking sound at the time of injury. This could be indicative of a broken bone. Some broken bones can protrude through the skin or look deformed or misaligned. Other indicators of a broken bone include intense pain, numbness or tingling, swelling, bruising, and a loss of mobility. Broken toes require medical attention. If you have any symptoms of a broken toe, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What to Know About a Broken Toe
Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- Throbbing pain
- Swelling
- Bruising on the skin and toenail
- The inability to move the toe
- Toe appears crooked or disfigured
- Tingling or numbness in the toe
Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.
Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 16 November 2020 00:00
What Can Cause Cracked Heels?
A common foot condition that can affect many patients is known as cracked heels. Cracked heels may develop as a result of standing on hard surfaces for the majority of the day or from wearing shoes that have an open back. The body’s natural defense of protecting damaged skin is thickening the skin, which often precedes cracked heels. Deep and painful cracks are referred to as fissures and can develop if this condition is left untreated. Mild relief can be found when the feet are soaked in warm water, followed by applying a good moisturizer to the affected area. If you have developed cracked heels, please consult with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this ailment.
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 Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. 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 office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Monday, 09 November 2020 00:00
Characteristics of Flat Feet
Flat feet is a condition in which the arch in the middle of the sole of the foot is absent, causing the entire sole of the foot to touch the ground when standing. About 30% of the population has flat feet. People with flat feet tend to have heels that point outwards from the ankles and floppier feet due to an excess of movement in the midfoot region. These can lead to various symptoms, such as pain, tenderness, or cramping in the feet or legs, and to the development of other foot conditions, including posterior tibialis tendonitis, tarsal tunnel syndrome, plantar fasciitis, ankle arthritis, overload metatarsalgia, and stress fractures in the bones of the feet. If you have flat feet that are causing you pain or discomfort, it is recommended that you seek the care of a podiatrist.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms
- Pain around the heel or arch area
- Trouble standing on the tip toe
- Swelling around the inside of the ankle
- Flat look to one or both feet
- Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Wednesday, 04 November 2020 00:00
Arthritis Can Cause Pain in the Feet and Ankles
If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
Monday, 02 November 2020 00:00
Toenail Fungus Can Cause Embarrassment
Toenail fungus is a foot condition that can be unsightly. Patients who have this ailment are often embarrassed by the appearance of their feet. It is considered to be contagious, and the fungus that causes the infection is found in public swimming pools, shower room floors, and surrounding areas. The toenail that is most likely to be affected is on the big toe, and one of the first symptoms can be the toenail turning yellow or white. The nail may gradually crumble and lift, and in severe cases, may fall off. If you have toenail fungus, it is strongly suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can recommend the best treatment option for you.
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 Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor 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 office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Monday, 26 October 2020 00:00
How Are Foot Warts Treated?
Most plantar warts, warts that develop on the bottom of the foot, go away after months or years on their own. However, as these warts can cause pain and discomfort, and because they are contagious and can spread easily, a doctor may recommend or prescribe various treatments and at home care techniques to help you find relief. To treat a foot wart, your doctor may prescribe a topical medication, which you must use exactly as prescribed for best results. You may also take an over-the-counter pain medication to reduce pain from the wart. Wearing comfortable shoes and socks, and padding the wart by wearing a doughnut-shaped felt or moleskin bandage, may also help relieve pain by reducing pressure placed on the wart. For the best treatment options, consult with a podiatrist today.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor 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 office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Monday, 19 October 2020 00:00
Should I Go to the Doctor for a Blister?
A blister is a fluid-filled bump that often appears on the foot. Most blisters are the result of excessive friction over a concentrated area of the foot, and are usually not serious. Left alone, they can typically heal without medical intervention. However, sometimes blisters can warrant a visit to the podiatrist. If you have a blister that you think may be infected, it is recommended that you see a doctor as soon as possible, as this can lead to a contagious bacterial infection of the skin, called secondary impetigo, or further complications like cellulitis or sepsis. You should also consult with a podiatrist if your blister is very painful or frequently recurs. For more information about foot blisters, speak with a podiatrist today.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.
What Are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
How Do Blisters Form?
Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.
Prevention & Treatment
It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Wednesday, 14 October 2020 00:00
Gout Pain Can Be Managed
Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
Monday, 12 October 2020 00:00
Wearing Shoes That Fit Correctly May Help to Prevent Foot Injuries
The importance of wearing shoes that fit correctly is understood by many people who enjoy sporting activities. When the shoes that are worn do not fit properly, blisters and injuries to the toes or feet may occur. This can be detrimental in pursuing the chosen hobby or sport. Before purchasing shoes, it is beneficial to try them on, as this ensures that there is adequate room for the toes to move freely. Additionally, a good fitting shoe will have an arch area that is in alignment with your feet. It is best to buy shoes at the end of the day, when the feet are typically at their largest. If you would like more information about how to buy shoes that fit correctly, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.
It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Proper Shoe Fitting
Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.
Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting
- Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
- Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
- Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
- Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
- Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot
The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Monday, 05 October 2020 00:00
Rheumatoid Arthritis and the Feet
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition that causes chronic inflammation of the joints and frequently affects the joints of the feet and ankles. In fact, more than 90% of people with RA develop symptoms in the foot and ankle. This condition can make it difficult to walk and may cause pain in the feet. RA can also make you more likely to develop other foot problems, such as collapsed arches, corns, calluses, bunions, hammertoes, and large bony bumps on the ball of the foot,. If you have been diagnosed with RA and experience symptoms in the feet and ankles, it is highly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist. A podiatrist can monitor your feet and ankles, prescribe various treatments, and help you maintain your mobility and quality of life.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.
In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.
Alleviating Arthritic Pain
- Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
- Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
- Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.
It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
