Dr. Parichart Vaikayee, DPM, dispels five commonly thought myths about foot injuries. One particular issue that she highlights is corns. Corns form as a result of a hammertoe, when the toe bone protrudes and rubs against surfaces. This leads to the build-up of skin, or corns. Corns are different than calluses, and can’t be eliminated through at-home treatment. Corn removal requires surgical care and should not be attempted by yourself.

For more information, consult with one of our podiatrists from Greene Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

Corns: What are they? And how do you get rid of them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:
- Well-fitting socks
- Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
- Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Salicylic acid can help in getting rid of these corns because it dissolves keratin, which is the protein that makes up a good majority of corns. Podiatrists recommend that people with diabetes not use salicylic acid but should consult with their podiatrist regarding the treatment of corns.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Kyle Busch, professional stock car racing driver and the 2015 Spring Cup Champion, suffered a broken leg and foot after a crash after practice at Daytona International Speedway. Following the break, Busch had to have surgery performed. He is expected to be in recovery for up to as much as 10 weeks. The accident gave Busch limited mobility in his knee. Doctors had removed the rod from Busch’s leg and foot, but he is expected to be ready for practice at Daytona on February 12.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to fix a foot ailment. For more information, consult with one of our podiatrists from Greene Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to help with the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary are:

• Removing foot deformities like bone spurs and bunions
• 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 contact our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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If your toenails are yellow, you may have a fungal infection called onychomycosis. This disease mostly affects the toenails but can also affect the fingernails as well. According to Aaron Sinclair, M.D., there are many causes of onychomycosis, and they include age, exposure to unclean wet and public areas, poor foot hygiene, poor circulation, and systemic infections or diseases like diabetes. If not treated, the yellowed toenail can detract and break away on its own. Treatments include topical medication, and preventive measures should be taken to further prevent onychomycosis from coming back.

While toenail fungus is troublesome to eradicate, doing so is not impossible. For more information, consult with one of our podiatrists from Greene Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a problem which affects many people and is hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating toenail fungus.

Antibiotics & Treatments

Lamisil – is the most commonly effective treatment for toenail fungus. It is available as an antibiotic Terbinafine tablet and cream. Terbinafine is a chemical component which kills fungal growth on the body. Applying regular doses will gradually kill the fungal growth. It is important to keep the area clean and air free.

Talcum powder – applying 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

Alternative Treatments

There are always surgical procedures that are available for toenail fungus. Some people would like immediate quick removal of toenail fungus. Surgeons will be able to cut through and remove the growth using laser surgery. It is important not to try and remove it yourself. Once removed, your old shoes will need to be replaced to avoid reinfection.  

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Waynesburg and Fredericktown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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For people who have diabetes, it’s important to manage it often to prevent further damage. Foot problems can arise as a result of poor management, and this can lead to damage of the nerves and blood vessels, or even neuropathy, the loss of feeling in the feet. Feet must be inspected on a daily basis so that injuries can be prevented. According to Nursing in Practice, “people with diabetes are at an increased risk of amputation compared to the non-diabetic population.” It’s best to see a specialist if you feel that you may have any potential issues with your diabetic feet.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you have any concerns contact Dr. Paula F. Raugellis of Greene Podiatry Associates. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including 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 because 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 concerns please feel free to contact our office located in Waynesburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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