Broken toes are a common problem treated in podiatric medicine. If you have toe pain and wonder if the bone could be fractured, then watch this video to learn how to identify a broken toe.

If you heard a popping or snapping sound at the time of the injury, then this can indicate a break. Also, swelling, bruising, a deformed appearance, and pain that is worse when you touch the toe are all signs that your toe may be broken and that you should see a podiatrist.

Family Foot Center specializes in treating everything from broken toes and bunions to toenail fungus and foot fractures. To schedule your appointment with a foot specialist in Whitestone, please call (718) 767-5555.

An ingrown toenail is a common type of problem treated by podiatrists. This foot issue can be incredibly painful and lead to infection, so seeking medical treatment is important. Luckily, there are a few things that you can do to reduce your risk of this problem. Continue reading to learn what steps you can take to prevent ingrown toenails.

Trim Your Nails

Cutting your toenails the right way and at the right time can do a lot to prevent an ingrown toenail. First, trim your nails regularly, not letting them grow longer than the tips of your toes. Also, do not cut them much shorter than this, because the pressure of your shoe can cause a shorter nail to grow into the tissue. When trimming them, cut your toenails straight across and not at a curve. If you have your nails done at a salon, then be sure to inform the pedicurist of these special conditions.

Wear Good Shoes

Besides keeping your toenails the right length and shape, wearing shoes that fit well is important for avoiding ingrown toenails. Choose footwear that does not pinch your toes or place too much pressure on them, and visit a shoe store that specializes in fitting shoes for individuals who have foot problems, if necessary. If you have nerve damage that affects your feet, then you may not realize when a shoe is too tight. For this reason, being fit for shoes by a professional can be incredibly helpful.

Protect Your Feet

Do you have diabetes? If so, then checking your feet on a regular basis is a smart way to catch early signs of ingrown toenails and other foot problems, and to protect your feet from infection. Lastly, wear protective footwear, like steel-toed shoes, if your job puts you at risk of foot injuries.

If you’re dealing with ingrown toenails in Whitestone, then come and see Dr. Zawada, the experienced and compassionate podiatrist at Family Foot Center. To schedule your appointment, please call (718) 767-5555.

Fungal foot infections are quite common, and they can affect the skin of your feet or the toenails. Foot fungus can be uncomfortable, unsightly, and embarrassing. If you want to reduce your risk of foot and toenail fungus, then use the following podiatrist-recommended strategies:

Keep Your Feet Dry

Fungi thrive in moist environments, so keeping your feet and toes dry is critical for preventing fungal foot infections. To do this, dry the areas between your toes after you bathe or swim. Also, wear socks without shoes when indoors whenever possible, choose socks that are made from an absorbent fabric, and change your socks 2 times per day. Finally, never walk barefoot in public areas where others may do so, such as around pools and in locker rooms.

Avoid Fungal Infection Recurrence

To help prevent a relapse of foot fungus, be sure to finish the entire course of treatment of any antifungal medication that you are prescribed. Also, apply anti-fungal or talcum powder to your feet to help keep them dry and prevent the growth of fungus. Additionally, you should keep in mind that washing your clothing in warm, soapy water may not be enough to kill any fungi present. For this reason, washing your socks in hot water and bleach can do a better job of preventing a recurrence of fungal infection.

Pay Attention to Footwear

Choosing the right footwear is critical for avoiding fungal foot infections. Because they allow more air to reach your feet, wearing sandals when possible is a great way to keep your feet dry and prevent fungal growth. Look for shoes that are made from breathable materials, such as cotton, microfiber leather, or genuine leather, rather than patent leather or synthetic leather. Finally, consider investing in 2 pairs of the shoes that you wear daily, so you can alternate between them and allow each pair a full day to dry before you wear them again.

If you’re suffering from toenail fungus or foot pain in Whitestone, then please call Family Foot Center today at (718) 767-5555 to schedule an appointment with our podiatrist.