Items filtered by date: March 2023

Practicing good foot care in diabetic patients is crucial in preventing infections from occurring. Diabetes happens as a result of elevated blood sugar levels, and it often affects the feet. It is important to maintain a proper foot care routine, which can be significant in preventing unwanted foot conditions from developing. This can consist of washing and drying the feet daily, followed by inspecting the soles by using a mirror. It can be useful in noticing existing cuts, bruises, or scrapes that have developed, in addition to noticing any skin color changes. It is beneficial to prop the feet up frequently during the day, which may help to improve circulation. Wearing shoes that fit correctly, and refraining from walking barefoot, may aid in protecting diabetic feet. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Harry I. Zirna from Lockport Foot Care, PLLC. Dr. Zirna can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Lockport, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

When you stand, walk, or run, the body distributes your weight through the arches of the foot. If your arches are flat, the pressure is then transferred to the bones, ligaments, and muscles, which can cause pain. Luckily, having flat feet doesn’t always cause serious foot problems, thanks to shoes or insoles that provide proper arch support. Experts recommend a number of ways to reduce the painful effects of having flat feet. First, avoid wearing flats, such as flip flops or sandals, that offer little or no arch support. Next, try to find shoes that offer just the right amount of arch support, as too much or too little can contribute to pain. Other tips include wearing shoes that are appropriate for the activity you are doing, avoiding standing for long periods, and considering adding inserts to your already existing shoes. Much success has been found by wearing custom orthotics that are molded especially for your feet. For more information about orthotics for flat feet, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist. 

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Harry I. Zirna from Lockport Foot Care, PLLC. Dr. Zirna will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Lockport, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot massage is a form of foot therapy, and many people enjoy having their feet massaged at the end of the day. The benefits include relaxation, and it may help to relieve muscle aches. Therapists who perform foot massages may start with a warm-up twist. This is done by placing the palms on the sides of the feet while pushing one side back and the other side forward. This is a helpful technique in preparing the feet to be further massaged. The arch can be massaged by holding the foot with one hand and rubbing the arch with the other. The heel and the ball of the foot can also be incorporated into this massage technique. Massaging the toes may help to increase flexibility, and this is accomplished by holding the heel of the foot with one hand while bending the toes back and forth with the other. If you would like additional information about the benefits of foot massage, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist.

Foot therapy is often necessary for those recovering from either foot deformities or foot injuries. If you have concerns regarding therapy, consult with Dr. Harry I. Zirna from Lockport Foot Care, PLLC. Dr. Zirna can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Most Common Injuries

People who are active or athletes are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is often important to take part in physical therapy in order to quickly get back on the right track. 

What to Do When Injured

Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.

During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. Physical therapy often involves:

Basic stretching and twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.

Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.

Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.

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

Many people have the foot condition that is known as toenail fungus, and can be under the impression it may be a cosmetic issue. Research has shown it is beneficial to have it promptly treated, and this may help to prevent potential complications from arising. Toenail fungus can gradually worsen, and the infected nail can thicken and cause foot pain. It may be difficult to walk while wearing shoes, and it may spread to other toes. Additionally, the skin on the feet may become itchy and red, which may indicate athlete's foot has developed. People who are diabetic have to be extremely careful the fungus does not cause the skin to crack, which may lead to bleeding and infections. In severe cases of toenail fungus, the nail can become brittle, and may have to be partially or completely removed as treatment begins. If you have developed toenail fungus, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can offer you the treatment method that is right for you. 

For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Harry I. Zirna of Lockport Foot Care, PLLC. Dr. Zirna can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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