Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, affects the blood vessels that deliver oxygen-rich blood to the legs and feet. The narrowing of these arteries can cause serious complications in the lower limbs. When blood flow to the feet is restricted, symptoms such as pain while walking, coldness, tingling, or numbness may develop. Cuts or sores on the feet and ankles may take longer to heal, raising the risk of infection and tissue damage. People with diabetes are at an even higher risk of peripheral artery disease, as high blood sugar can further damage blood vessels and reduce circulation. In advanced cases, untreated PAD can contribute to ulcer formation and limb loss. A podiatrist can evaluate circulation in the feet, identify early warning signs, and recommend effective treatment to restore blood flow and protect against further damage. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease that are affecting your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

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

Swollen feet and ankles can be uncomfortable and may signal underlying health concerns. Common causes include poor circulation, sprains, injuries, cardiac insufficiency, and pregnancy. The swelling often results from fluid buildup in the tissues, making movement difficult and sometimes painful. While occasional swelling may improve with rest and elevation, persistent or severe swelling should not be ignored. A podiatrist can help identify the root cause, whether it is related to injury, circulation, or another condition, and create a treatment plan to relieve discomfort and protect your overall health. If you are struggling with swollen feet or ankles, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, 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.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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.

Heel spur removal is a surgical procedure performed to alleviate pain caused by bony growths on the underside of the heel. Indications for this procedure include chronic heel pain that does not improve with conservative treatments, such as orthotics or anti-inflammatory measures. Heel spurs often develop due to repetitive stress, plantar fasciitis, or abnormal foot mechanics. Symptoms include sharp heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning, swelling, and tenderness. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the condition, exploring non-surgical options, or determining if surgery is necessary for lasting relief. If heel pain is affecting your mobility, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist for an expert evaluation and care.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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.

Toenail fungus is a common condition that can cause thickened, discolored, or brittle nails. However, not all changes in toenail appearance are due to fungus. Injuries to the nail bed can cause similar discoloration, as can psoriasis, eczema, or certain skin conditions that affect the nails. Repeated pressure from wearing tight shoes may lead to thickening and changes in shape. Some medications or systemic illnesses, such as thyroid disease, can also alter nail color or texture. Because these conditions can look alike, it is important not to self-diagnose or rely on over-the-counter treatments without confirmation. A podiatrist can examine the nail, possibly perform lab testing, and determine the true cause. Accurate diagnosis ensures that the right treatment is used, whether it is antifungal therapy or another form of care. If you notice nail changes, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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.

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the blood, leading to sharp crystals forming in the joints, most commonly in the big toe. This condition often results from diets high in purines, which are found in red meat, shellfish, alcohol, and sugary drinks. Symptoms include sudden, intense pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected joint, which may feel tender even to a light touch. Attacks can come on quickly, often at night, and can last for days or weeks. The affected area may appear shiny or purplish, and feel stiff or hot. A podiatrist can help diagnose gout through physical examination, blood tests, and imaging to detect joint inflammation or uric acid crystals. Managing gout often requires changes in diet and lifestyle, along with medications to reduce uric acid levels and inflammation. This type of doctor can offer guidance on foot care, proper footwear, and prevention strategies. If you are dealing with painful gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this uncomfortable condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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.