Items filtered by date: September 2023

Tuesday, 26 September 2023 00:00

How to Become a Podiatrist

Podiatrists, also known as Doctors of Podiatric Medicine, or DPM, are foot specialists who diagnose and treat issues related to the feet, ankles, and lower leg. Becoming a podiatrist involves rigorous training, which includes four years of education at a podiatric medical school. Aspiring podiatrists then gain practical experience through a three-year residency in hospitals and clinics. They also must pass exams to receive certification from the American Board of Podiatric Medicine. Some podiatrists choose to specialize further by pursuing fellowship training to become specialists in their field. Podiatric surgeons, a subset of podiatrists, are required to earn certification from the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery, which enables them to perform foot surgeries. To practice legally, podiatrists must obtain and renew state licenses and stay updated with annual seminars to maintain their expertise. To find out more about joining this medical field, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact Lance Greiff, DPM from Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

  • Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
  • Use innovative methods to treat conditions
  • Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
  • Correct walking patterns and balance
  • Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

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

 

Read more about What is a Podiatrist?
Tuesday, 19 September 2023 00:00

The Many Benefits of Foot Spas

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, we often neglect our feet despite their vital role in keeping us mobile. Foot spas offer a soothing retreat for your hard-working feet, and the benefits extend far beyond relaxation. First and foremost, foot spas provide immediate relief from stress and fatigue. The warm water and massaging action soothe tired muscles, easing tension throughout your body. Additionally, foot spas can promote better circulation. The blood is stimulated to the feet and lower limbs, aiding in the removal of toxins and reducing swelling. This can be particularly beneficial for those individuals with circulation issues. Foot spas can also alleviate foot pain and discomfort. Whether it is due to a long day of standing or a specific foot condition, the combination of heat and massage can provide relief from common foot ailments such as plantar fasciitis or arthritis. Lastly, regular foot spa sessions can enhance overall foot health by softening calluses and promoting better nail care. These indulgent treatments offer a multitude of benefits that go well beyond a momentary pampering session. If you would like more information about the benefits of foot spas, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist.

Foot therapy is often necessary for those recovering from either foot deformities or foot injuries. If you have concerns regarding therapy, consult with Lance Greiff, DPM from Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Most Common Injuries

People who are active or athletes are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is often important to take part in physical therapy in order to quickly get back on the right track. 

What to Do When Injured

Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.

During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. Physical therapy often involves:

Basic stretching and twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.

Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.

Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Great Neck Bronx, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Foot Therapy for Sports Injuries
Tuesday, 12 September 2023 00:00

Causes of Seed Corns

Seed corns, those tiny yet painful annoyances on the feet, may sound inconsequential but can be quite uncomfortable. These small, hardened, and sometimes translucent bumps typically develop on the soles of the feet or in between the toes. They are a form of callus, but unlike the regular calluses that form due to friction or pressure, seed corns have a different origin. The causes of seed corns can vary. They often arise from dry skin, which is more prone to developing these small, central core calluses. Ill-fitting shoes that constantly rub against certain areas of the feet can also be a culprit. Additionally, foot deformities or gait abnormalities can increase pressure on specific spots, leading to seed corn formation. While seed corns may seem minor, they can be quite painful while walking. If you are dealing with these tiny irritations on your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can alleviate the discomfort and prevent them from returning, ensuring your feet remain healthy and pain-free.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Lance Greiff, DPM of Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

  • Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
  • Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
  • Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Read more about Corns and Calluses
Tuesday, 05 September 2023 00:00

Unveiling Athlete's Foot Symptoms

In the world of skin infections, athlete's foot sneaks in as a notorious contender. This fungal menace, medically termed tinea pedis, brings a distinct array of symptoms that can catch anyone off guard. Redness and itching, often concentrated between the toes, mark the initial sign of its presence. As it progresses, the skin may become cracked, forming painful fissures that can lead to discomfort while walking or standing. Peeling and flaking skin, reminiscent of a sunburn, may also emerge. Athlete’s foot can extend to the soles of the feet, causing thickened, rough skin. Blisters resembling a rash can appear, and if left untreated, the infection can spread to the toenails. Recognizing these subtle yet telling signs can empower individuals to seek timely treatment. If you are affected by athlete’s foot, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and treatment solutions.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Lance Greiff, DPM from Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

  • Thoroughly washing and drying feet
  • Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
  • Using shower shoes in public showers
  • Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
  • Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

  • Redness
  • Burning
  • Itching
  • Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

 

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Sunday, 03 September 2023 00:00

Do You Suffer From Painful Feet?

Painful deformities, such as hammertoes, can be treated. Stop living with foot pain, and have beautiful feet again!