Plantar warts are small growths that develop on the bottom of the foot, most often on weight-bearing areas like the heel or ball of the foot. They are caused by a virus that enters the skin through tiny openings, leading to thick, rough skin that may be painful when walking or standing. These warts are contagious and can spread through direct contact or shared surfaces, like locker room floors, pools, or showers. Plantar warts are often mistaken for calluses, but they usually contain small dark dots, which are actually clotted blood vessels. A podiatrist can provide relief by safely reducing thickened skin, applying targeted topical treatment, or using freezing techniques to destroy wart tissue. If you believe you have a plantar wart, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our doctors from Andrea Hyperbaric Wound Care & Health Center. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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.

Chronic foot pain is a common concern among older adults, and it often increases with advancing age. Years of wear and tear can weaken bones, joints, ligaments, and soft tissues, making the feet more vulnerable to discomfort and injury. Risk factors include being female, excess body weight, and conditions such as osteoarthritis, which can cause stiffness, swelling, and ongoing pain. Depression may also play a role by altering pain perception and reducing physical activity, which can further strain the feet. A podiatrist can identify the source of chronic foot pain through a thorough evaluation and imaging, when needed. Treatment may include custom orthotics, footwear guidance, targeted therapies, and management of underlying conditions. If foot pain is limiting your mobility or quality of life, it is suggested that you seek professional care with a podiatrist who can treat various foot and ankle conditions, and guide you on elderly foot care tips.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, 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.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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.

Swollen feet, also known as edema, occur when fluid accumulates in the tissues, causing puffiness and discomfort. Common causes include prolonged standing or sitting, high-sodium foods, processed meals, and certain medical conditions such as heart, kidney, or liver disease. Foods that contribute to water retention, including salty snacks, canned soups, and processed meats, can exacerbate swelling. Other factors such as pregnancy, medications, or circulation issues may also play a role. A podiatrist can evaluate the underlying cause, recommend lifestyle adjustments, provide supportive footwear or compression therapy, and create a plan to reduce swelling while protecting foot health. If your feet have become swollen and are uncomfortable, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you manage this condition.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, 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.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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.

Football places intense strain on the feet and ankles, and the push-off forces used for sprinting or sudden direction changes can damage the thick tendon behind the heel. The Achilles tendon, which links the calf muscles to the heel bone, allows a player to jump, run, and accelerate. Quick bursts of speed, tackling, and uneven fields increase tension in this tendon, making a tear more likely, especially when a player lands awkwardly or the ankle twists. A rupture causes sharp pain, swelling, and difficulty standing on the toes. A podiatrist can assess the tendon, order imaging, discuss footwear that provides support, and recommend treatment such as bracing, therapy guided exercises, or surgery when needed to restore strength and mobility. If you have Achilles tendon pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and safe, sterile treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, 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.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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