May 2023

People who are afflicted with plantar warts may have difficulty walking. These growths are found on the soles of the feet and can cause severe pain and discomfort. This is a result of the consistent weight the feet endure while walking and standing during the day. Plantar warts are caused by a virus that is known as the human papillomavirus, or HPV. This virus is contagious, and lives in warm and moist environments. These can consist of public swimming pools, locker rooms, and shower room floors. It is beneficial to wear appropriate shoes while in these areas, such as flip flops or water shoes. This type of wart will generally take several weeks or months to completely disappear. Many patients seek treatment to relieve the pain, which may include removal for faster relief. If you have a plantar wart, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can guide you toward the treatment that is correct for you.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Corinne R. Kauderer, DPM from Dyker Heights Foot & Ankle. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Brooklyn, NY and Old Bridge, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Lower back pain is not something to take lightly, as it can dramatically affect your overall health and well being. Interestingly, lower back pain has a notable connection to the feet, since the feet are essentially the foundation of the entire human body. Orthotics, or shoe inserts that are custom or over-the-counter, can be used to address lower back pain. Orthotics are a non-surgical, non-invasive option that might be used by patients to address their lower back pain without undergoing a surgical procedure. The orthotics can be used to put the feet in optimal alignment and motion, thereby supporting the back. If you are someone that is struggling with lower back pain or chronic back pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide guidance, advice, and assistance regarding custom orthotics.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Corinne R. Kauderer, DPM from Dyker Heights Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Brooklyn, NY and Old Bridge, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

People who stand for the majority of their work day may experience foot pain. Having aching feet at the end of the workday can make the body tired. Studies suggest it may help to wear thick socks while standing during the day, and this may help to provide cushioning between the feet and the shoes. It is important to ensure the shoes that are worn fit correctly to prevent foot pain. Additionally, when shoes wear out, it is wise to promptly replace them. Many employers understand the importance of taking breaks and recommend using this opportunity to rest and recharge their feet before work is resumed. Most work shoes are made with slip-resistance soles, which can help prevent falls. It is suggested that certain shoes be purchased depending on the job performed. If you would like more information about how to protect your feet during the workday, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can provide you with helpful tips.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Corinne R. Kauderer, DPM from Dyker Heights Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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

A sprained ankle can happen in a variety of ways. These can include unexpectedly stepping off a curb, or twisting it during a sporting activity. Regardless of how it happens, a sprained ankle can be painful and cause difficulty completing daily activities. Additional symptoms may include swelling, bruising, and a reduced range of motion. When the foot is frequently elevated, the swelling may decrease, and wrapping the affected ankle in an elastic bandage may help to stabilize the foot. If the sprain is severe, the healing process may take several weeks, and activities may have to be temporarily stopped until enough time has passed. Severely sprained ankles may affect the joints, and it is beneficial to seek immediate medical attention if the foot appears to be deformed. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Corinne R. Kauderer, DPM from Dyker Heights Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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

Having flat feet, medically known as pes planus, is the result of collapsed arches that absorb the shock of each step you take. The three main types of flat feet are flexible pes planus, posterior tibial dysfunction, and a tight Achilles tendon. Flexible flat feet is the most common type, indicated if the arch disappears when the foot bears weight. It is generally not painful, and with proper arch support can be contained. If the posterior Achilles tendon is torn, swollen, or has become injured, flat feet can result. This type can be caused by obesity, hypertension, or diabetes. When the tension between the calf muscles and the Achilles tendon is too tight, it may cause arch pain when you are active. Most babies are born with flat feet, and the arches develop as the baby grows, so it should not be a cause for alarm. In adults, however, it may be harmful to ignore flat feet, because the pain from overpronation can spread to the legs, knees, hips, and back. For help with any type of flat feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide proper treatment options.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Corinne R. Kauderer, DPM from Dyker Heights Foot & Ankle. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Brooklyn, NY and Old Bridge, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.