January 2022

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nail typically characterized by a thickening and discoloration of the nail, a separation of the nail from its bed, pain, and even permanent damage to the nail in severe cases. Because onychomycosis can be difficult to cure and is prone to reoccur, home remedies are typically ineffective, as are many topical and oral antifungal medications. Laser therapy treatments to eradicate toenail fungus have proved to be successful in many patients. This technology utilizes pulses of energy to create precisely targeted heat that kills the fungus living in the nail bed (under the toenail) and prevents it from growing back. The FDA has approved several types of laser devices for the treatment of onychomycosis. If you have a toenail fungus, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to see if you might be a good candidate for Laser therapy treatment.

Laser treatment can be an effective way to get rid of toenail fungus. If you have any questions about laser treatment, consult with one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment for fungal nails.

What Are Toenail Fungal Infections?

Onychomycosis, or fungal infection of the nail, is a relatively common and non-serious condition. Around 10 percent of U.S. citizens are afflicted with fungal nails. Common forms of fungus that infect the nail include dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds.

Symptoms of Toenail Fungal Infections Include:

• Nail thickening
• Brittleness of the nail
• Discoloration of the nail

Diagnosis for Fungal Nails

Fungal infections are diagnosed by fungal culture and microscopy. This will rule out any other conditions such as nail trauma, psoriasis, lichen planus, and onychogryphosis.

What Is Laser Treatment?

Laser treatment is a non-invasive, safe, quick, and painless procedure that uses the heat from a laser to kill fungus in the nail. Each infected nail is targeted with a laser for several minutes. The treatment is usually utilized several different times over a select period. During this time, a podiatrist will keep an eye on the infection.

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

Foot blisters are a common but very annoying problem. Fortunately, there are many ways to prevent them. First, you should look for a shoe that fits well, holds your heel firmly in place, and leaves some wiggle room for your toes. Avoid buying shoes with rough seams or edges along the inside, as these can irritate the skin. Socks are important too. Look for socks that are made with a moisture-wicking material. These will help keep your feet dry. You can also use an antiperspirant or talcum powder. Toughen the skin on your feet by slowly increasing the distance of your walks or runs and by moisturizing your heels if they are dry. If you have certain areas of your feet that are prone to blistering, cover them with sports tape, moleskin, or special patches to protect them. For more information about how to prevent foot blisters, please consult with a podiatrist. 

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Footcare Now. Our doctors 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 offices located in Elmhurst Jackson Heights, and Astoria, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion is a painful deformity that occurs over time, causing a bony protrusion at the base of the big toe joint. Aside from being unsightly, a bunion can become quite painful and inflamed. Bunions are often caused by high heels that force the foot forward, or footwear that is pointy, tight at the toes, or puts pressure on the big toe joint. Heredity and diseases that affect the joints can increase the risk of a bunion developing. If you have a bunion, it’s suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. There are a variety of methods that can be used to correct the deformity and restore the natural alignment of your big toe. After examining and assessing the bunion, your podiatrist will explain their findings and go over your treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Footcare Now. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

In Rheumatoid Arthritis, the tissue lining within healthy joints is attacked by the body’s own immune system. This is very painful and can lead to joint damage and bone erosion. Rheumatoid Arthritis is a systemic disease, which can occur throughout the entire body. It often affects the feet, toes, and ankles, causing stiffness, pain, and abnormal warmth in joints and ligaments. A person’s quality of life can be affected by Rheumatoid Arthritis as well, since it can often reduce both mobility and the ability to participate in daily activities. When Rheumatoid Arthritis affects the feet, a podiatrist should be consulted to help relieve symptoms, decrease inflammation, and prevent joint damage. Possible treatments a podiatrist may use to treat Rheumatoid Arthritis include rest, medicine, orthotics, physical therapy, and steroid injections.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. Our doctors 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 offices located in Elmhurst Jackson Heights, and Astoria, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.