It may not seem like a difficult task, but the way in which you clip your toenails can have a direct impact on the overall health of your feet. When clipping your toenails, start by soaking your feet for three to four minutes in warm water to cleanse the area and soften the nail. Soaking your nails will also help reduce the risk that your nails will split upon trimming.

Using a clean, sharp nail trimmer, clip your nails straight across until they do not extend over your toe or do not show any white section of the nail. Be sure not to cut your toenails so that they have rounded or tapered edges, as this will increase the risk of ingrown nails. You may also consider filing your nails after trimming to remove any uneven edges, but your nails should be dry before you begin filing.

For more tips on caring for your foot and toenail health, contact Family Foot Center by calling (347) 625-5256. You can also click on the link to visit our website.

Running is a great way to stay in shape and strengthen your leg muscles—but unless you are practicing proper running form, you may end up suffering from foot and ankle pain. This video discusses how athletes can find a comfortable running form.

It is important to keep your spine straight while running to alleviate tension in the shoulders, neck, and lower back. A good way to do this is to pretend that there is a thread going straight through your head and down your spine. Find out how to properly position your arms, legs, and feet while running by watching this full clip.

Are you suffering from heel pain or other overuse injury? Find out what is causing your foot pain and get the treatment you need by contacting Family Foot Center at (347) 625-5256.

Athlete’s foot is a common foot ailment which often affects the soles of the feet and skin between the toes. Despite its name, this condition can affect men and women alike, regardless of their activity levels. While your podiatrist can determine if you are suffering from athlete’s foot, it is important to educate yourself on the various causes and symptoms of the condition.

Fungal Infections
Most forms of athlete’s foot are caused by two types of fungi: trichophyton mentagrophytes or trichophyton rubrum. Trichophyton mentagrophytes typically lead to a sudden, severe infection between the toes and can be treated easily—while trichophyton rubrum fungi often leads to infections along the soles and lasts for long periods of time.

Contact With Infected Items
The two types of fungi responsible for most athlete’s foot infections grow in warm, moist areas and can be easily spread from one person to another, and from surface to surface. For example, athlete’s foot may be spread by touching the affected area, using damp towels, wearing another individual’s shoes, and walking barefoot on contaminated surfaces such as public showers, locker rooms, and pools.

Poor Foot Hygiene
Individuals who fail to practice proper foot hygiene are at a greater risk for athlete’s foot. For this reason, it is important to keep your feet clean and ensure that your feet are thoroughly dry before putting on socks and shoes. You will also want to change your socks any time they become damp or wet, and allow your shoes to dry completely after exercising. You may also consider using an anti-fungal powder on your feet and on the insides of your shoes.

Are you suffering from itchy, painful athlete’s foot? Get the care you need for your foot infections by contacting the Family Foot Center in Whitestone, New York at (347) 625-5256. You can also visit us online for more information about our treatment options for ingrown toenails, plantar warts, bunions, hammertoes, and heel pain.

Did you know that the human foot has 26 bones, 33 joints, 107 ligaments, and 19 muscles and tendons? There is a lot to know about feet, which is why the FootDecide app for iOS devices is so handy.

This free app uses medical images and notes to describe a variety of foot conditions and symptoms. FootDecide also uses your location to show you a directory of foot specialists who are close to where you are. You can also stream the app’s content to a larger screen so you and your doctor can discuss your concerns together.

If you are having issues with your feet, you should speak to a specialist. Call Family Foot Center at (718) 767-5555 or visit our website to learn about our comprehensive podiatric care in our comfortable Whitestone office.