A big toe bone spur, also known as hallux rigidus, is a bony growth that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe. This condition often causes pain and stiffness, limiting mobility. Cheilectomy is a surgical procedure used to treat this condition by removing the bone spur and any damaged tissue from the joint. The main cause of a bone spur in the big toe is osteoarthritis, which leads to the deterioration of cartilage and the growth of bone over time. In some cases, an injury or overuse of the toe can also contribute to the development of such bone spurs. A cheilectomy helps restore movement and reduce pain, allowing patients to return to normal activities. The procedure is often effective for those with moderate symptoms, offering relief from discomfort and improving joint function. If you have pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this type of surgery is needed.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our doctors of Andrea Hyperbaric Wound Care & Health Center. 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 Astoria, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A puncture wound on the foot may seem minor, but even small injuries can lead to complications, if not treated promptly. When a wound penetrates deeply, bacteria can become trapped under the skin, increasing the risk of infection. When bacteria reach the bone, a serious condition known as osteomyelitis can develop, leading to pain, swelling, and delayed healing. Other possible complications include abscess formation or damage to soft tissue and tendons. Proper wound cleaning, monitoring for redness or drainage, and medical evaluation are essential, especially if the injury occurred through a shoe or in an unclean environment. Timely treatment can prevent infection from spreading and promote full recovery. If you have sustained a puncture wound on your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for evaluation and appropriate care.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our doctors from Andrea Hyperbaric Wound Care & Health Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Astoria, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Tiny bone cracks in the foot often appear after repetitive strain, long walks, or sudden increases in exercise. The discomfort usually begins as a dull ache that worsens with movement and eases with rest. Swelling, tenderness, or pain in a specific spot may signal that the bone has been overstressed and needs attention. A podiatrist can identify a stress fracture through imaging tests and a hands-on exam. Treatment usually involves taking pressure off the foot so the bone can mend naturally. Supportive footwear, protective boots, or temporary use of crutches may be recommended. Once healing is underway, gentle activity helps rebuild strength and stability. If you continue to feel pain in your foot during daily activity, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to prevent the injury from becoming more serious.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our doctors from Andrea Hyperbaric Wound Care & Health Center. 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

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

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 contact our office located in Astoria, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Blisters that develop beneath the joints of the big toe or little toe can make every step painful. These fluid-filled pockets often form from friction, pressure, or rubbing inside shoes that do not fit properly. High arches, bunions, or calluses can also cause uneven weight distribution, increasing stress on these areas. Because blisters under the foot can be deep and slow to heal, walking may become challenging, and infection can occur if the skin breaks. A podiatrist can determine what is causing the friction, drain or protect the blister safely, and recommend footwear or custom orthotics to reduce future irritation. If you experience recurring blisters under the toe joints or discomfort while walking, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and effective treatment to restore comfort and prevent further injury.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our doctors of Andrea Hyperbaric Wound Care & Health Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often 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.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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