Foot Care Specialists Westerly RI

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Foot Care Specialists FAQ in Westerly, RI

Why are my toenails so thick and hard to cut?

Toenails that grow thicker over time likely indicate a fungal infection, also known as onychomycosis. Left untreated, thick toenails can become painful. Prompt treatment can be key to curing the nail fungus. Fungal infections might be difficult to cure and may require months of treatment.

Why do elderly get thick toenails?

The growth rate of nails decreases when people get older. This results in thickening because nail cells pile up. The process of nail cells piling up is referred to as onychocytes. Another reason why fingernails don’t thicken as much is their growth rate is smaller than the growth rate of toenails.

Should I keep walking with foot pain?

See your podiatrist if the pain persists “Pain is a sign that something is wrong,” Youner says. “Do not walk through pain.” You may have a condition such as bone spurs or plantar fasciitis. Bone spurs are a form of outgrowth, and plantar fasciitis is the result of damage or tearing in ligaments of the heel.

What is the most common foot problem?

1. Athlete’s foot. Athlete’s foot is most commonly caused by walking in damp areas.

What is painful feet a symptom of?

If your shoes aren’t a problem, you may have one of several conditions that cause foot pain. Arthritis, a fractured or broken bone, gout, tendinitis, plantar fasciitis can all make your feet hurt. You’re more likely to have foot problems as you get older and your joints wear down.

What is the most common foot surgery?

While there are various types of heel surgery, the most common is called plantar fascia release surgery. The procedure targets the plantar fascia, a band of tissue connecting the toes to the heel bone. Depending on the case, the doctor may cut part of this tissue or release any tightened parts.

What is better than a podiatrist?

Unlike podiatrists that only treat the foot and ankle, an orthopedic doctor also treats other body parts such as the knees, hips, and spine. If podiatrists are foot and ankle doctors, orthopedists are bone and joint specialists. Orthopedists can treat various musculoskeletal issues.

What’s the difference between podiatry and chiropody?

There’s no difference between a podiatrist and chiropodist, but podiatrist is a more modern name. A podiatrist (chiropodist) can help you with common foot problems, including ingrown toenails and bunions. What does a podiatrist do?

Can a podiatrist do surgery?

Podiatric surgeons offer comprehensive surgical care for a wide variety of problems, including: bunions (hallux valgus) problems with the toes (e.g. hammer toes) nerve entrapments of the foot and ankle.

What is the number one medicine for neuropathy?

The main medicines recommended for neuropathic pain include: amitriptyline – also used for treatment of headaches and depression. duloxetine – also used for treatment of bladder problems and depression. pregabalin and gabapentin – also used to treat epilepsy, headaches or anxiety.

What are common foot problems in older adults?

Some of the most common foot problems in older adults include bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, ingrown, thickened or discolored nails, diabetic foot conditions, poor circulation, and heel pain. Regular visits to a podiatrist can help you maintain your foot health as you age.

Which is better chiropodist or podiatrist?

Simply put, there is actually no technical difference between a chiropodist and a podiatrist in how they work; “chiropodist” and “chiropody” are the outdated terms for doctors that specialize in foot problems.

How do you cut thick elderly toenails?

Soak your feet in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften your nails. Make small cuts with the clipper to avoid splintering the nail. Then cut straight across. If thickened toenails are too painful or difficult to cut yourself, call us for advice or an appointment.

How often will Medicare pay for a podiatrist to cut toenails?

Medicare will cover the treatment of corns, calluses, and toenails once every 61 days in persons having certain systemic conditions. Examples of such conditions include: Diabetes with peripheral arterial disease, peripheral arterial disease, peripheral neuropathy, and chronic phlebitis.

What do orthopedics do for feet?

Foot and ankle orthopedic surgeons are able to effectively treat complex lower extremity conditions in conjunction with the rest of your body. They specifically evaluate foot problems but can also review other orthopedic issues that may be contributing to foot and ankle pain.