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Platelet-rich plasma therapy, which is also known as PRP injections, is generally used to accelerate the healing process for several conditions. Additionally, it may help to reduce inflammation in tendons, ligaments, and muscles that may be a result of a severe injury. After a small sample of blood is taken from the patient, it is spun in a centrifuge. This machine is effective in separating the platelets from other portions of the blood. At this point, it is injected into the affected area, and the healing process begins. If you have a foot condition that you believe may benefit from the use of PRP injections, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine the best course of treatment for you.
If you are suffering from a foot condition, contact one of our podiatrists of Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
What Is PRP?
Platelet Rich Plasma, or PRP, is blood taken from a patient and spun in a centrifuge, concentrating the amount of platelets. The plasma is then re-injected into the site of injury or damage, assisting the body in repairing damage to muscles, tendons, ligaments, and tissue. PRP helps the body speed up its healing process.
Uses of PRP
Injuries affecting the foot sometimes don’t heal properly because of poor blood circulation. The healing time slows down, and recovery time is affected by poor blood supply. PRP injections will speed up recovery and resolve this issue.
Treatment
PRP is the first regenerative treatment for damaged muscles, tendons, and ligaments. No surgery needed. It is only applied with an insertion of a needle.
Ultrasound – An ultrasound is needed for proper placement of the platelets.
Injection – When the first injection is received, the patient will return to the doctor in about 2 to 3 weeks and monitor the recovery process.
Recovery time – Some people respond to treatments differently. Therefore, depending on your condition, the doctor will make any remaining decisions on how many more injections are needed, or if any additional ones are even required.
Benefits
One may be able to avoid major surgery, and recovery time will be cut down. PRP injections also avoid creating scar tissue and damage to the area. Risks are also very low using PRP as a treatment. There is no risk of rejection, contracting a disease from using another person’s blood, or infection.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, and Oswego, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Cracked heels are generally a common condition among those who typically wear open footwear. Besides having a displeasing appearance, cracked heels can also be very uncomfortable and painful for patients who are afflicted with this ailment. Common causes that lead to the development of cracked heels may include standing for the majority of the day, increased pressure on the heels due to obesity, and certain skin conditions such as eczema or athlete’s foot. Along with the pain they may cause, cracked heels that are more severe can also lead to bleeding. It is said one way to help begin the process of healing cracked heels is by drinking plenty of water and remaining hydrated. Applying moisturizers, petroleum jelly, healing cream, and moisturizing socks may also help to reduce the dryness in your heels. Patients have also found soaking their feet, followed by using a pumice stone as an exfoliant, is helpful in treating cracked heels. For more advice on how to best treat cracked heels, please consult with a podiatrist for treatment plans and professional care.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.
How Do You Get Them?
Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.
Promote Healing
Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.
Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.
Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.
Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin.
Change in Diet
Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.
Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, and Oswego, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Corns, typically found on the toes, side, and bottom of the feet, can be incredibly uncomfortable and often painful. Simple everyday activities, such as walking, can become difficult if corns are left untreated. Corns are hardened layers of the skin, often caused by too much friction and the use of improper footwear. They can feel very sensitive when touched, and often become irritated when shoes are worn. To help lessen the pain of a corn, it’s advised that you wear a cushion or pad over your corn to stop any further friction. It is also suggested to soak the feet in warm water, and filing at the corn may help to decrease its size. In order to safely treat your corn, it is recommended to consult with a podiatrist for professional care.
Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors 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:
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 one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, and Oswego, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
The central nervous system is connected by the peripheral nerves to the nerves in the body. These nerves deliver physical sensations to the brain. The medical condition that is referred to as peripheral neuropathy can occur if the nerves become damaged or destroyed. This may happen as a result of genetic traits, an injury, or if there is an existing infection. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this disorder can consist of a tingling sensation in the hands and feet, excessive sweating, and the feet may feel heavy. A proper diagnosis is generally performed by a podiatrist, which can help to determine the extent of the ailment. This can often include having a blood test, CT scan, or MRI taken. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.
Neuropathy
Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.
What Is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.
Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:
Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.
Treatment
To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.
Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, and Oswego, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Arthritis can affect a person in many different ways. One form of inflammatory arthritis is known as gout, which may often cause issues for the toes, specifically the big toe. Gout typically develops due to a buildup of uric acid when the body tries to break down purines found in foods. Dietary changes may be effective in reducing purine levels as well as the likelihood of a gout flare up. Drinking a lot of water may help with the swelling and inflammation that is often caused by gout. Another method of reducing gout-related inflammation, is by icing the affected joints and keeping the feet elevated. As far as reducing your purine levels, it’s advised that you avoid meats and fish such as bacon, turkey, scallops, and muscles, to name a few. For more advice on how to manage your gout, we recommend that you consult with a podiatrist for professional care.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. 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
Risk Factors
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 one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, and Oswego, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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It is fairly common for a person to have broken their pinky toe. This can happen as a result of a heavy object falling on top of it, or possibly from stubbing it against a piece of furniture. When the pinky toe is broken, you may still be able to walk on it, however it can produce severe pain and discomfort. An effective treatment for a broken pinky toe may be referred to as buddy taping. This is done by taping the affected toe to the toe next to it. This procedure may help to support the broken toe as the healing process takes place. Severe fractures may produce a fever, and it may be necessary to perform surgery or to take pain medication. If you have broken your toe, please consult with a podiatrist who can properly treat a broken toe.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What to Know About a Broken Toe
Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.
Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, and Oswego, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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The medical condition that is known as Morton’s neuroma is defined as swelling around the nerves that pass between the bones in the foot. It can cause pain and discomfort at the ball of the foot, as well as a burning or numbing sensation in the toes. It can develop as a result of a muscular disorder, in addition to participating in certain sporting activities. Wearing high heels may cause this condition to develop, and this can be due to minimal room for the toes to move freely in. Effective treatments may consist of wearing custom made orthotics, and performing specific exercises and stretches that may help in the healing process. If you have any of these symptoms, it is advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer correct treatment techniques.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.
What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, and Oswego, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.
People who enjoy running are generally familiar with the importance of properly training, which often includes gradually increasing mileage and speed. This may be beneficial in reducing the risk of getting a stress fracture. This type of injury is known as a hairline fracture, and develops over time. It occurs when the bones are stressed from frequent exercise, and are unable to heal properly. An X-ray is typically taken to determine the extent of the stress fracture, followed by implementing recovery methods. These can consist of wearing a protective boot for approximately six weeks, or having surgery performed that may be necessary to heal severe stress fractures. If you have endured this type of injury, it is advised that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can guide you toward treatment options that are correct for you.
Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.
How Are They Caused?
Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon. Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.
Risk Factors
Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, and Oswego, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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A painful foot injury can take the joy out of running. It can happen suddenly, or develop gradually, and may never completely disappear. There are methods that may help to prevent running injuries from occurring. These can consist of performing stretches and exercises that can keep the body strong. Research has indicated it is beneficial to have strong glute muscles, and this a critical factor in maintaining strength and power while running. Additionally, muscle soreness may be diminished when foam rolling is implemented, and this may also help to improve range of motion. When running shoes are purchased, it is important to choose shoes that fit correctly, and support your body as the miles are increased. If you would like to learn about additional stretches that can help to prevent running injuries, please consult with a podiatrist.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.
What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.
Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, and Oswego, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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People who enjoy running marathons are most likely familiar with having blisters on the feet. These generally form as a response to excessive friction that can come from the foot rubbing against the socks and sneakers. They typically develop on the sides of the feet or between the toes. It is the body’s natural reaction to form a protective bubble over the damaged skin. This is filled with fluid, and will gradually drain on its own when the skin has healed. There are methods that can help to minimize blisters. These can include wearing shoes that fit correctly, and it may be beneficial to develop calluses by engaging in a good training schedule. Blisters may be protected while running by covering them with specific types of tape. If you have developed blisters on your feet, and enjoy the sport of running, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer possible treatment techniques.
Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.
What Are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
Symptoms
(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)
Prevention & Treatment
In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, and Oswego, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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The arthritic condition that is referred to as gout has been known and treated for more than two thousand years. It mostly affects men and can cause sudden pain in the joints of the big toe. The symptoms many patients experience can include severe pain and discomfort, swelling, and extreme tenderness. It may be difficult to walk, and anything that touches the affected area may cause significant pain. It is caused by excess levels of uric acid in the bloodstream. Crystals can form as a result of this, and lodge to the joints of the body. It can be described as if pins were in between the joints of the big toe, which can cause severe inflammation. The level of uric acid may increase if certain foods are eaten. These can consist of red meat, shellfish, and sugary drinks. If you are prone to having gout attacks, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, and Oswego, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!