Fungal nail infections primarily affect toenails, causing them to thicken, become discolored, and occasionally separate from the nail bed. In mild cases, fungal toenail infections might not require immediate treatment, yet some patients have a higher risk of complications and should seek professional advice promptly. Risk factors include diabetes, psoriasis, peripheral arterial disease, smoking, or medications that weaken the immune system. Fungal infections typically develop from minor injuries near the nail. They can be spread by sharing personal items like nail clippers or towels, walking barefoot in moist public areas, or transferring athlete’s foot from the skin between toes to the toenails. Treatment is often challenging due to frequent recurrences, and may include prescription antifungal nail lacquers, or oral antifungal medications prescribed by a podiatrist. In severe cases, a podiatrist may recommend surgery to remove the affected nail completely. If you notice that your toenail appears infected, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

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 Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. 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 contact our office located in Co-Op City, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Arthroscopic ankle surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that allows a podiatrist to diagnose and repair damaged tissues in the ankle joint. Using a small camera called an arthroscope, the podiatrist can assess the condition of bones, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons through small incisions. This method is commonly used to treat ligament tears, loose bone or cartilage fragments, and scar tissue that may be causing pain or limiting movement. Ankle arthroscopy can also help reduce discomfort caused by arthritis or impingement, where swollen tissues restrict joint motion. The procedure involves inserting surgical instruments through additional small incisions to repair or remove damaged structures. Compared to open surgery, arthroscopy generally results in less pain and a shorter recovery time. However, healing can vary depending on the severity of the damage and the extent of the repair. A podiatrist can evaluate whether arthroscopic ankle surgery is appropriate and provide guidance on the recovery process. If you would like more information about arthroscopic ankle repair, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists  from Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Co-Op City, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Fall prevention is essential for seniors, as falling can lead to serious injuries that impact their health and independence. Regular fitness activities that improve balance, strength, and flexibility can help seniors maintain stability and reduce the risk of falls. An eye exam is essential to ensure that vision problems, which can contribute to falls, are addressed. Seniors should also remove floor clutter and ensure their living space is free from obstacles like rugs or furniture that could cause tripping. Wearing supportive footwear, such as Velcro sneakers, provides better grip and stability compared to loose or high-heeled shoes. These simple yet effective steps can significantly lower the risk of falls, promote safety, and enhance the overall quality of life for seniors. If you are elderly or are caring for a senior citizen, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist as part of a healthcare team who can effectively monitor foot health.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Co-Op City, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot fractures can be painful and debilitating, with some more complex than others. Three common types include calcaneal fractures, Chopart fracture-dislocations, and metatarsal fractures. Calcaneal fractures, or heel bone fractures, usually result from high-impact injuries like falls or car accidents. They cause severe heel pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight. These fractures often require extensive recovery time and, in severe cases, surgery. Chopart fracture-dislocations affect the midfoot joint, often from high-energy trauma like twisting injuries or falls. This type of injury can be difficult to diagnose, leading to long-term instability if untreated. Symptoms include swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. Metatarsal fractures involve the long bones in the foot and commonly occur from direct impact, overuse, or stress. Pain, swelling, and tenderness are typical signs. For proper healing and long-term mobility for any type of foot fracture, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Co-Op City, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.