Morton's neuroma is a common foot condition that I regularly see in the office. I have also been a victim of this condition in the past so I can attest to the discomfort this condition can cause. Morton's neuroma is not a true tumor, but is an inflammation of one...
A joint fusion is a surgical procedure where the cartilage is removed from the ends of the bones and the bones are held together until they heal into a single bone. Joints are most commonly fused when a person has unremitting pain and/or instability due to arthritis or from surgical...
Your fearless foot leader has finished his new release! The Foot Book. This is a patient's guide to all things podiatry! If you ever wondered what other kinds of conditions a podiatrist treats regularly, you can find out in this book. It is a patient friendly reference of the most...
Toe deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, and claw toes are not only unsightly; they can become quite debilitating if left untreated. These conditions are progressive, and although they may happen slowly or quickly, they worsen over time. Why Deformities Happen In most cases, toe deformities have two components: a biomechanical...
The story behind Measure Your Feet Day dates back to ancient Iceland. The ancient Icelanders spent most of their free time engaging in activities that involved their feet, and when spring, a time known for extreme rainstorms in Iceland, the natives would run in their huts and celebrate the rain...
A child’s heel pain is different from heel pain in adults. Most cases of adult heel pain are due to plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of a ligament like structure that attaches to the bottom of the heel bone. Planta fasciitis is rare in children. A child’s heel pain is usually...
It’s that time! Trying to decide what self-improvement steps you’ll take this year? We’d like to encourage our patients to make some resolutions to improve foot health. Here are a few to consider: 1. Commit to Daily Care When you consider the many miles your feet walk each day, it's...
When it comes to a health concern, we all want the fastest solution at the lowest cost. This is the case whether it’s pain in the back, a toothache, or a sore foot. Hundreds of millions of dollars are spent annually on over-the-counter (OTC) products. In the foot world, inserts,...
Club foot is a congenital foot deformity where the feet are turned inward and downward at birth. It is not uncommon, occurring in 1 in 1000 births world wide according to the medical literature. Most children with club foot are diagnosed at or near delivery in the US and other...
Most patients with plantar fasciitis respond well to our usual treatment protocols. In some instances symptoms persist despite treatments. In these cases, it is thought that the healing process of the plantar fascia injury stops prematurely leaving the area in a partially healed state. The term we use for this...
Tiger Woods had to withdraw from the Hero World Challenge golf tournament last week because of a foot condition called plantar fasciitis. He stated that he will opt for a stretch and relax approach versus surgical intervention. Stretching is definitely a big part of the treatment plan for plantar fasciitis,...
The term shoe drop generally refers to the difference in thickness of the sole of the the shoe from the heel to the toe area. The extreme descriptive example is the women’s high heel shoe. Running shoe drop, also known as heel to toe differential, among other terms, is a...
When is a bunion more than a bunion? It is when bunion occurs in a patient with another foot deformity called metatarsus adductus. In this condition, all 5 of the metatarsals angle toward the opposite foot. This condition is usually a congenital deformity most commonly thought to be caused by...
There are constant advancements in medical science occurring at a frenetic pace. Some wind up being great improvements over previous available therapies, others, not so much. Foot surgical techniques have not changed too much in the last 50 years. Most of the advancement in orthopedic foot and ankle surgery has...
Surgery is usually the last option considered for foot and ankle conditions. Most foot and ankle problems can be successfully treated with non surgical approaches. Should foot surgery be considered, consultation with a Board Certified Foot and Ankle Surgeon will give you the best options for surgical care. In my...
Lupus is an autoimmune inflammatory condition that got its name from the Latin word for wolf, lupo. Early clinicians thought the typical face rash of lupus resembled the markings on wolves, hence the name. Lupus, like other autoimmune inflammatory conditions can affect tissues all around the body. The feet are...
What I thought was Sasquatch was just a big black bear sauntering through my yard. Bigfoot got me thinking about big feet. I have had some patients with very large feet. The current world record holder for foot size is a man from Venezuela who has size 26 feet. The...
1. Heel pain only comes from standing on hard surfaces. Heel pain can develop for many different reasons including poor shoe support, flat feet, excessive weight, and overuse. Standing all day on hard surfaces can aggravate the condition, but has never been proven to be the cause. Many people who...
Metatarsalgia is not an actual medical diagnosis. It is a descriptive term for pain in the metatarsal area, which is in the ball of the foot behind the toes. There are a number of anatomic structures that can be injured or have abnormalities which can result in pain in the...
A callus is the build-up of extra skin on the bottom of the foot. Many calluses can cause pain, but not all of them. Some people notice a burning sensation when a fair amount of callus has formed. The two most common places for calluses on the ball of the...
Dry skin of the feet and legs is a common finding for patients coming to the podiatry office. There are many reasons for dry skin to occur, from hereditary skin conditions to toxic chemical exposure to infections. Some causes of dry skin are more than skin deep. Dry skin can...
As the weather turns cooler, fall road racing season is heating up! There are a number of events throughout the state in the coming months featuring distances from 5k up to marathon. Check this site for upcoming events https://runningintheusa.com/race/list/ct/upcoming. So, how do you get ready for a road race? It...
While on vacation last week in the USVI, I got to thinking about the potential hazards our feet face at the beach. Here are my top 3 threats Cuts or lacerations. Walking barefoot anywhere puts the foot at risk for soft tissue injury. Sand is soft on the feet but...
Walking for exercise has many health benefits. When considering or increasing walking for exercise there are a few mistakes that should be avoided. Mistake 1. Starting to long. With any change in activity, our bodies need to adapt to the stress. If you have never walked for exercise before, trying...
Athlete’s foot is a non medical term for a skin infection of the feet that is usually caused by a fungus. Common in athletes due to the sweat accumulation in shocks and footwear, this affliction can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms can include itching and burning of the skin...
We are waiting for the day when either a vaccination exists to stop all viruses (including influenza) or an antibiotic starts working like it does for bacteria. We can’t seem to get ahead of the current viral problem plaguing the world for the last 2 plus years. Another virus we...
What parent wouldn’t do anything to help their child live a healthier life? Foot problems in children can keep them from from doing healthy activities that involve running and walking. I will let you in on a secret… Podiatrists are experts in treating children and teens. Podiatrists keep America’s kids...
Corns are very common foot complaint that have been around since people started wearing closed shoes. Corns and callouses form in areas of friction or pressure as the body attempts to protect the skin. They are composed of compressed layers of the outermost layer of skin. The difference in the...
Charley horse is a common term for muscle cramps particularly those in the calf muscle. Anyone who is an athlete has probably had a cramp in a muscle at some point due to overuse or dehydration. But what about those cramps that occur at night while in bed? Nocturnal recumbancy...
Over your lifetime, your feet will carry you more than 216 million steps, or more than 100,000 miles. That’s a lot of time spent on your feet and, as you age, it becomes more important than ever to take good care of them. People unable to move about due to...
Spring has sprung. This is the time that many people start or resume their running work outs. The feet are a runners most prized possessions so it is important to pay attention to them to keep them healthy. It goes without saying that foot wear needs to be appropriate for...
There are many conditions that can cause a lump or bump on the foot. Some examples are bone spurs, ganglion cysts, bunions, abscess and various tumors. One such “tumor” is the plantar fibroma. These are benign growths in the substance of the plantar fascia, which as a ligament that supports...
The sudden onset of pain and swelling in the foot is often… Gout! Yes, gout! Even if you’ve never had it, you can get it. The big toe joint area is where gout attacks most. It can also occur in other places in the foot, ankle or knee. Neither ice...
Turf toe is a specific injury of the great toe joint of the foot. It can run the gamut from mild sprain to complete dislocation of the joint. The injury got its name from its increase in occurrence with athletic play on artificial turf surfaces. The usual mechanism for this...
There are 2 other common cold related complaints that typically affect the toes. Unlike direct tissue injury from cold like frost bite, these conditions are brought about by reactions in the small blood vessels in the digits. In Chilblains, exposure to cold leads to an inflammatory process in the small...
Winter can bring lots of challenges to the human body. The extremities are particularly sensitive to cold temperatures as they are far from the core of our body. Exposure to cold temperatures can cause direct tissue injury, which is called frostbite. Frostbite severity is classified in degrees, similar to thermal...
Heart disease is on the rise again… According to an article in the January 15th edition of the Wall Street Journal, heart disease is on the rise again in the U.S. The headline “Heart Disease Roars Back, Even in Healthy Places” couldn’t help but catch my eye. Even in a...
Cold weather can affect the feet in many ways. The skin of the feet is one of the areas affected. Cold dry air outside and dry heat in our homes can result in excessive dryness of the skin. In some people, severe thickening of the outer layers of the skin...
Lisfranc’s injury is one that we don’t hear about regularly. It certainly has an unusual name. Most people wonder what it is and why it can be one of the most devastating foot injuries for athletes. One of my favorite NFL players, Taysum Hill, sustained this type of injury on...
Your foot odor may stem from any of several causes. You can get sweaty feet because it’s hot outside or you’re exercising vigorously. Still, your feet can also sweat excessively for other reasons like: Being pregnant, Wearing ill-fitting shoes, Stress, Spending long hours on your feet, Taking certain medications and...
Many people make New Years Resolutions to do(of not do) many things. But how many make the resolution to take better care of their feet? Those of you that have been in to see me for a foot problem know how disruptive a foot problem can be to our daily...
There is a nerve in your foot that can get pinched just like carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist. The area is on the inside of the ankle and it’s called Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome. Pain can occur right in that spot. Pain can also occur in your heel, arch, and...
The history of questionable fashion trends and beauty practices dates back thousands of years. We have all heard of Chinese Foot Binding, which was used to make the foot appear smaller and prettier. While wearing shoes with sky-high heels is less extreme, people who wear them regularly can pay a...
With a lot of people working from home in the last 2 years, I often get questions about what is best to wear on the feet in the home. I have seen patients of mine in the last 2 years that have recurrent symptoms for conditions such as plantar fasciitis...
Foot surgery can provide many benefits including pain relief, improved shoe fitting, improved function and yes, improved appearance. But what if the only concern is improving the appearance of the foot? Although the complication rate of foot surgery is generally low, any surgical procedure entails elements of risk. Complications such...
Rogers has broken toe immunized? Not quite. One of the football announcers joked about the treatment quarterback Aaron Rogers had on his fractured pinky toe, poking fun at the player for saying he had been naturally immunized against Covid 19 rather than receiving the vaccine. Vaccinations seem to be a...
The Tennessee Titans star running back Derrick Henry, one of the top players in the NFL, has been sidelined by a seemingly simple foot fracture. The fracture that he sustained is called a Jones fracture. This is a fracture of the 5th metatarsal bone which is on the outside of...
Fast diagnosis and treatment is needed for any diabetic foot problem, particularly skin wounds. Diabetes can often lead to decreased blood flow to the feet. Without the right amount of blood, a sore may not heal as well. Diabetes also often leads to decreased feeling in the feet. A sore on...
November is American Diabetes Month and an important time to take a look at how to combat this disease which afflicts over 34 million people in our country. Diabetes is the number one cause of lower–limb amputations. Poor circulation, a condition associated with diabetes, means less blood flow to your...
Walking on hot coals? Generally not recommended! Some of my patients who have peripheral neuropathy have told me that this is how their feet felt. Others have reported tingling, numbness or cold feeling. Peripheral neuropathy is a condition where there is something wrong with the nerves in the extremities causing...
My feet are killing me! Actually! That may be a bit of an exaggeration, but they are sore along with my legs after running in the Ridgefield Half Marathon this weekend. I have to confess that I was not as prepared for this event as I would have liked to...
Maybe it’s the wrong size… Sometimes the easiest solution is the best solution. One of the easiest and often overlooked ways to address foot pain is by checking shoe size. Studies show a large percentage of people aren’t wearing the right shoe size, so making sure you are is a...
Set backs. We have all had them in all areas of life. How we react to and handle set backs helps to shape our lives. But what about set backs in health care? We all expect a linear course form diagnosis to treatment to recovery in the shortest time possible....
Leonardo DaVinci once wrote that the human foot was a marvel of engineering. Much like a building, the structural integrity of the foot depends on many structures working together. The anatomic structures that contribute to stability of the structure of the foot include bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and fascia....
One of the most frustrating things for medical practitioners is to have a patient come in with a serious complication that could have been prevented or at the very least addressed early, before it got really bad. It happens all too often. Maybe we take our feet for granted or...
Ingrown nails may develop for many reasons and some cases are congenital, because the nail is just too large for the toe. They can also be caused by trauma and ill fitting shoes. The most common cause however is improper grooming and trimming of the nail. Trimming toenails too short,...
Not only does nutrition play a big role in the overall health of the body, but even the development and treatment of certain foot conditions. Eating certain foods has shown to reduce the risk for inflammation and other diseases that can affect your feet. Here are some foot conditions that...
Have you ever had toenail fungus? Toenail fungus is a fungal infection of the nail or nail bed that causes thick, yellow, crumbly nails. Nail fungus can be difficult to get rid of and if left untreated, can lead to a more serious infection. The best thing you can do...
What are they? Plantar warts are warts on the bottom of the feet caused by Human Papillomavirus(HPV). These warts are flat and firm to the touch and often resemble a cauliflower with black speckles. The lesions are either gray, brown, or yellow in color. They may be extremely painful, especially...
Running is one of the most popular and practiced sports in the world, with approximately 60 million people in the U.S. hitting the trails, parks, and streets annually! It is no surprise that running and jogging is one of the main causes for many foot and ankle injuries. Some common...
What it is: Remy Laser is a class IV FDA cleared laser that is used to treat a wide range of patient conditions including pain and inflammation, wounds, nail fungus, warts, and more! What it does: The Remy Laser accelerates tissue repair and cell growth, improves vascular and metabolic activity,...
Stop suffering from the side effects of misaligned feet…HyProCure is the solution you have been waiting for! HyProCure is an internal stabilization device that is placed inside the foot. The device is a titanium stent which is placed into the sinus tarsi to instantly stabilize and re-align the hind-foot. The...
Neurogenx- Start today and get your life back! Neurogenx has improved the quality of life for thousands of patients around the country suffering from neuropathy. What is Neurogenx treatment? It is a breakthrough electromedical treatment program that alleviates pain, tingling, burning, and numbness resulting from neuropathy and chronic nerve conditions....
Debunking 3 common foot myths! 1.You can’t walk on a broken foot. As a matter of fact, it can be quite easy to walk on a broken foot. Some broken bones hurt more than others, making it more difficult to walk. What’s most interesting about a broken bone is that...
Going Barefoot- Being barefoot increases your chance of injury or infection, and it can cause foot pain in other ways, too for instance, if you need the arch support. Wear supportive shoes in the summertime! Wearing unsupportive shoes- Flip Flops and Sandals are too flat and cause the forefoot...
Two of the most well-known and common nerve conditions in the body are Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and sciatic nerve pain. If you have had either of these, you know how painful and persistent they can be. Nerve conditions are common in the feet as well. One of the telltale signs...
Much of the devastation caused by the Coronavirus is because of how extremely contagious it is. Certain germs are more contagious than others. And as far as the foot is concerned, fungus and viruses are the two most common germs that lead to problems. Fungus in the skin is commonly known...
If you are experiencing pain on the ball of your foot, you may have a common condition we see every day. You may feel like you are walking on a ball or something raised. Women over the age of 40 are most prone to this symptom. An injury is rarely the...
Figure 2. Bones of the human foot. Bunions are often related to rear-foot instability. Who is this for? People suffering with pain from their bunion deformity that aren’t ready for, or cannot have surgical correction. What is a bunion? The bunion deformity, technically termed Hallux Abductovalgus or HAV for short,...
By Paul J. Betschart, DPM Who is this for? People with bunions that may have failed conservative care and are considering surgical treatment. Who is this not for? People looking for a miracle cure or are chasing the latest fads in bunion treatment. The bunion deformity, technically termed hallux abductovalgus...
By Paul J. Betschart, DPM What Is Arthritis? Arthritis is a medical term that describes inflammation of a joint; swelling and tenderness are common symptoms. Joints are areas where 2 different bones contact one another. Some joints allow for motion to occur and some do not. The freedom of movement...
If you stop to think about it, it is rather amazing what our feet do for us throughout our lifetime. Anyone who can get through life unaffected by a foot problem is incredibly lucky. When a foot problem does arise, we usually ask our feet to plow through in spite...
By Paul J Betschart, DPM, FACFAS Who is this for? Anyone who is suffering from heel pain and is looking for the best way to treat it at home. Who is this not for? People looking for an instant cure, pill poppers and those unable or unwilling to follow simple...
There are many places in the foot where bone spurs can develop. One person might have pain from a spur, while another might not feel anything. Some spurs are obvious, like the ones on the top of the foot, whereas most can’t be seen. The only way to discover any...
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common and well-known condition. You or someone you know has probably had it. What isn’t so common, and definitely not known by the majority of people, is a condition called tarsal tunnel syndrome. It’s essentially the foot’s version of carpal tunnel syndrome. (The carpal bones are...
Ever wonder why your foot pain can fluctuate from very little to quite intense, but never fully goes away? Have you ever had a sore foot and after a few days of rest, the pain went away? Right when you decide to make an appointment to see your podiatrist, it...
Balance-Boosting Footwear Tips for Older People Falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among older people according to the CDC. Each year, 3 million older people are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries. More than 800,000 patients a year require hospitalizations due to a fall injury....
Gout is a specific type of arthritis that causes inflammation and pain in one or multiple joints. It often begins suddenly without a warning. The pain can bring you to your knees. It’s common for a gout attack to occur within the foot and ankle. In fact, the big toe...
Some good news: many adult foot problems can be prevented with proper foot care throughout childhood. This is especially the case if Mom, Dad, Grandma or Grandpa have had a foot condition. Many foot issues such as ingrown toenails, bunions and flat feet can be genetic. You can help your...
One of best decisions you can make for your feet is to wear shoes or quality sandals in the kitchen. Going without shoes on a hard surface over the course of time can cause problems. It’s especially important to wear shoes at home if you are experiencing a foot or...
One of the questions we get most often is: “Will I be able to run or walk for exercise after a surgical procedure on my foot?” Our first response is always: “Are you able to run or walk now?” This is not meant to be sarcasm, but a true fact-finding...
Since the start of the pandemic, we have been happy to see many people exercising more, getting outside in all seasons, and taking up new routines. If you are someone whose activity level has changed in some way, we want to share a word of caution that could help keep...
There are many conditions that can show up in the feet as a result of diabetes. Although we can’t diagnose diabetes just by looking at the feet, there are signs and symptoms that indicate the possibility. Diabetes can affect circulation, skin, bones, muscles, tendons, and nerves. Blocked arteries can lead to...
Every now and then, a shoe style comes along that’s different from the rest. Much of what is advertised about shoes isn’t as good as it sounds. For instance, “memory foam” sounds good, but is it really better for our feet? Much of the sensationalized marketing is done around athletic...
Every day, someone comes to our office pointing to a pain on the outside of their foot – somewhere between the outside ankle bone and the little toe. There is a common condition that occurs here, and it rarely originates from an injury. Though the pain usually starts small, it...
Should I wear shoes in the house? As many of us are spending more time at home than ever before, it’s important to show our feet some TLC around the house. You may have a custom of not wearing shoes at home for cleanliness, comfort, or cultural reasons. If you...
Pain in the heel can take many forms, but the two most common are plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the band of tissue that runs along the base of the foot becomes inflamed and when pressure is applied, it sends a sharp pain to the bottom...
You have probably heard of the term dislocation in reference to a major joint, such as the knee or shoulder. Dislocations often occur because of an injury. The pain can be quite intense. Most of the time, the joint can be re-located back to its original position without the need...
Here is a tried and true solution to avoid foot surgery We are always looking for the easiest and least invasive methods for treating foot conditions. We pride ourselves on being able to help someone avoid surgery. Surgery is a common treatment for a painful bunion, but not the only one....
You probably have heard of the term “bone spur.” Although commonly found in the heel, bones spurs can form in several different places in the foot. One of the more unusual places we see is when a bone spur forms under a toenail. This can be quite painful. Sometimes the...
Mobility is something most of us take for granted until it is compromised. Nothing is more important to our overall mobility – especially knees, hips, and back – than the health of our feet. Just ask anyone who has been limited by an acute or chronic foot problem how critical...
The Achilles tendon is the strongest tendon in the body. This tendon is a thick, cord-like structure that inserts into the back of the heel bone, and it’s located in one of the most overused and under-appreciated parts of the foot. Our feet are subjected to great amounts of stress...
Here are some balance-boosting footwear tips: Did you know that falls are the leading cause of both fatal and non-fatal injuries among older people? Three million older people are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries every year. And more than 800,000 patients of all ages require fall-related hospitalizations annually....
People who suffer from diabetes and neuropathy should know why it’s important to avoid frostbite. Neuropathy, a condition often experienced by those with diabetes, affects the body’s ability to feel, and therefore, hot and cold often cannot be discerned. A person with neuropathy is more prone to frostbite, since they...
Don’t blame your shoes… A bunion can be a very painful condition. Bunions are excess bone that builds up, usually on the inside of the foot near the big toe. It is a myth that narrow, high-heeled shoes are the cause of bunions. Bunions are almost always caused by genetics....
Many of the people we see for foot and ankle pain have arches that are flatter than normal. Some foot conditions come from having very flat feet. The foot type that doesn’t get much attention is the one with a high arch. For clarification, the position your arch assumes when...
Common causes of foot problems include heredity, overuse, bad shoes, diabetes, and being overweight. But there is also a lesser-known word that is at the root of many foot issues: pronation. Pronation is a definite buzzword in the foot and ankle world. It essentially means that your foot turns inward...
Wouldn’t it be wonderful if our feet could look as good in our later years as they did in our youth? Who doesn’t marvel at the perfection of an infant’s feet? Toenail changes are one of the unfortunate things that happen to many feet. If our feet were as exposed...
What is neuropathy? Neuropathy is a term that describes nerve dysfunction. Basically this means something has caused the nerve or nerves to stop working properly. Neuropathies can be further divided into central, affecting the brain and spinal cord, and peripheral, affecting the nerves in the rest of the body. We...
The Achilles tendon is the strongest tendon in the body. This tendon is a thick, cord-like structure that inserts into the back of the heel bone, and it’s located in one of the most overused and under-appreciated parts of the foot. Our feet are subjected to great amounts of stress...
Here is a guide to children’s shoes: Most children learn to walk around the time of their first birthday. As a child begins to walk, you may have your first questions about what shoes they should wear. A growing child will need new shoes frequently. Children’s feet grow in spurts...
Whether it appears suddenly or has been present for a while, it could be the sign of something serious. Unless an injury occurred, most swelling doesn’t hurt. Don’t let that fool you. Some of the most common reasons for swelling of the ankles and feet are: Veins not functioning properly...
A luxury car like a Rolls-Royce needs every part working perfectly to glide down the road effortlessly. You can’t even hear one of these on the road — they are that smooth. Our body is no different. Keeping our feet and lower extremity joints working optimally is mission critical to...
Have you seen the new reality show on TLC called “My Feet are Killing Me?” They chronicle the story of three patients with significant foot problems as they find solutions and relief. A recent episode showed a gal with six toes who was having pain from her shoes rubbing, a...
It seems logical that a cushion in your shoe should help relieve pain in the heel. But… it almost never works. (We wish it were that easy!) In fact, most store-bought inserts don’t help this condition much. The bottom of your heel doesn’t start hurting in most cases because it...
If a hammertoe hurts, it’s usually because the shoe rubs on the prominent knuckle. The reason to be concerned is that more problemscan stem from this. Some of the complications from hammertoes are open sores, infections, stress fractures, and tendon or ligament tears. As you can see, a simple bending...
A very unfortunate injury in sports is a tear of the Achilles tendon. It can take 6-12 months to get back to full strength depending on the severity of the injury. What’s fascinating about this particular injury is how almost all victims of it say a similar thing. They felt...
It’s always up to you… Most foot surgery is elective. Elective means it’s always up to you, the patient, to decide if and when to have it. We are often asked when the right time is to consider surgery. In most cases, the best answer is when the pain is...
Neuropathy and Frostbite: A Dangerous CombinationPeople who suffer from diabetes and neuropathy shoel know why it’s important to avoid frostbite. Neuropathy, a condition often experienced by those with diabetes, affects the body’s ability to feel, and therefore, hot and cold often cannot be discerned. A person with neuropathy is more...
Not only for Kings… The sudden onset of pain and swelling in the foot is often… Gout! Yes, gout! Even if you’ve never had it, you can get it. Anyone over 20 years of age is prone to this condition. The big toe joint area is where gout attacks most....
Proper foot care can prevent many foot problemsHere are some tips for proper foot care: 1. Wash your feet in warm water every day, using a mild soap. Do not soak your feet. Dry your feet well, especially between the toes. 2. If the skin on your feet is dry,...
Heart disease is on the rise again… According to an article in the January 15th edition of the Wall Street Journal, heart disease is on the rise again in the U.S. The headline “Heart Disease Roars Back, Even in Healthy Places” couldn’t help but catch my eye. Even in a...
Don’t ignore this one… There is a nerve in your foot that can get pinched just like carpal tunnel in the hand. The area is on the inside of the ankle and it’s called the Tarsal Tunnel. Pain can occur right in that spot. Pain can also occur in your...
If you still have Plantar Fasciitis or have it again this message is for you. We keep learning more about this condition and what works best to cure it. Never fear if you’ve had it for months or even years. There definitely is a solution! One thing we know now more than...
Even a small sore on a diabetic foot can be a big problem. Diabetes can often lead to decreased blood flow to the feet. Without the right amount of blood, a sore may not heal as well. Diabetes also often leads to decreased feeling in the feet. A sore on...
It could be worse than you think… Dropping something on your foot can lead to long-term pain. We’ve seen it happen many times. A broken bone can be the least of the concerns. Injury to a nerve can be the most significant problem. We never dismiss an injury to the...
Healthy Feet, Healthier Life Many people have intentions of getting healthier in the new year but foot pain slows them down. Do you know someone like this? A healthier life starts with healthy feet. If you hear of someone talking about a foot problem slowing them down, let them know...
Happy and Healthy New Year and New Decade! Health can begin from the ground up. If there are any nagging foot problems that are keeping you from living that healthy lifestyle you deserve, make a resolution to take care of it to start 2020! Come on in for a consultation...
People don’t always realize how their feet can be a window into their general health. A comprehensive lower extremity exam can help identify both foot and general health problems. Get yours today! Book a consultation here or call 844 375 7622
Have you put off anything related to your foot health until you’ve met your health insurance deductible? Understandably, many people do this. Deductibles have gotten outrageously high. Ugh! The 4th Quarter of the year is busier than usual around here because many people have met their deductible. We’ve already heard...
Addressing a Child’s Foot Pain What parent wouldn’t do everything in their power to keep their children healthy? Being proactive about a child’s foot concern is an important part of this philosophy. Pain in a child’s feet isn’t normal. It’s rarely from ill-fitting shoes. Unless a child has a deformity...
Maybe it’s the wrong size… Sometimes the easiest solution is the best solution. Why complicate things? One of the easiest and often overlooked ways to address foot pain is by checking shoe size. Studies show a large percentage of people aren’t wearing the right shoe size, so making sure you...
Pain in the arch of the foot can be a real bear to get rid of. Ignoring it for too long can lead to long-term pain. Often times, arch pain is a strain of the plantar fascia. It can occur if you have normal arches, flat feet, or high arches....
If you want to avoid Ugly Toenail Syndrome, this message is for you… An injured toenail can lead to an unfortunate lifelong cosmetic problem. We’ve seen many of these over the years. Having us evaluate an injured toenail as early as possible is your best chance of avoiding a long-term...
Most people don’t realize that dry skin on the bottom of the feet could be a sign of Athlete’s Foot. Dry skin isn’t always just dry skin. It doesn’t matter whether you’re 20 years old or 80 years old, dry skin could mean you have Fungus in the skin. Athlete’s Foot doesn’t...
Danbury podiatrist Paul Betschart, DPM has teamed up with Sandy Hook Promise and will run in the 2019 New York City Marathon to help raise funds for this worthy cause. The platform of ending gun violence is important to support, regardless of our politics. Dr Betschart will run the 26.2...
Although medical care and outcomes cannot be guaranteed, we can guarantee your satisfaction with our office. If your experience with our office is not satisfactory, let us know promptly. We will do everything possible to resolve any issues to ensure your experience with us exceeds your expectations. COME IN FOR...
No Fear of the Foot Doctor It’s understandable why some may have a fear of the dentist, or going to their primary physician for a colonoscopy, or even having an annual physical. However, when it comes to the podiatrist, there is no need to have the slightest sense of fear....
Don’t Operate Your Own Personal Treatment Center, Part Two Good day, Doctor Paul Betschart here, ready to talk to my friends in Danbury again today about some of the mistakes that people make by trying to treat themselves. Specifically, we are focusing on the condition known as bunions, which affects...
Suffering From an Ingrown Toenail? Are you suffering from the pain of an ingrown toenail? Does your foot throb when you put pressure on it? Does the light weight of your bed sheets even cause pain at times? Hi, I’m Doctor Paul Betschart, a podiatrist here in Danbury, CT, and...
Don’t Operate Your Own Personal Treatment Center, Part One Sometimes people try to treat their own foot pain, and play the role of both doctor and patient. Hi, I’m Doctor Paul Betschart, a podiatrist from Danbury, CT, and I would like to talk to you today about some of the...
How Flatfoot Affects the Entire Body Hello, this is Doctor Paul Betschart here, your local podiatrist from Danbury, CT. I would like to talk to you today about flatfoot and how it can affect the entire body. Most of us would assume that flatfoot only affects, well, the foot. Therefore,...
Work-Related Foot Pain Hi there. This is Doctor Paul Betschart, and I am a foot doctor in Danbury, CT. If you have a job that requires you to be on your feet all day, it’s likely that you often experience foot fatigue or pain. There are a number of foot...
Hello, this is Doctor Betschart, your favorite podiatrist in Danbury. In a previous post, we talked about plantar warts and how to identify them. Today, I want to tell you about what causes them. As surprising as it may seem, plantar warts are the result of the human papilloma virus,...
26 Bones Did you know that there are 26 bones in your feet? Hi, I’m Doctor Paul Betschart, and I am a podiatrist in Danbury, CT. I would like to talk to you today about foot fractures. Since there are 26 bones in the feet, foot fractures can turn up...
#DanburyCT #MiddleburyCT Hello, this is Doctor Paul Betschart here, your local podiatrist from Danbury. I would like to talk to you today about flatfoot and how it can affect the entire body.Most of us would assume that flatfoot only affects, well, the foot. Therefore, it may be surprising that it can affect...
A Revolutionary New Approach To Bunion Correction – In 3D New Procedure Treats the Root Cause of Bunion Deformity Dr. Betschart of Advanced Foot and Ankle Center is now offering a revolutionary new approach to bunion surgery – the Lapiplasty® Procedure. Unlike traditional bunion surgery which address bunion correction only...
#DanburyCT #MiddleburyCT Chronic ankle instability is one of the possible repercussions of not treating an ankle sprain in time.Hi, I’m Doctor Paul Betschart, a podiatrist in Danbury, and today I want to talk to you about the importance of dealing with an ankle sprain at the onset.Like other foot ailments, ankle sprains...
What are Plantar Warts? We all know about warts that can grow on the hand, but how many have heard of warts of the feet? Doctor Paul Betschart here, and I would like to talk to residents of Danbury who may be experiencing foot pain about a condition called plantar...
NEUROPATHY ANSWERS! Neuropathy is an interesting foot ailment, since many can suffer from it and not even know it.I’m Doctor Paul Betschart and today’s blog is about the condition called neuropathy, which I tackle as a podiatrist here in Danbury. The word “neuro” stands for the body’s nervous system. Your...
Embarrassed of your Feet? Let’s face it. There are a lot of people who are embarrassed of their feet. They don’t want anyone to know about some of the unsightly ailments that they are struggling with. I’m Doctor Paul Betschart , a foot doctor from Danbury, CT, and I’m here...
The humble toenails; we pinch them with tight or narrow shoes. We wash them, trim them and polish them. We look at them every day. But do we give them credit for the important job they play?Toenails are a level of protection for your toes in the event of injury....
You know the telltale bump on the outside of the big toe that makes wearing shoes so difficult. The bony protrusion, caused by the joint at the base of the big toe moving out of place, gets a lot of friction from shoes and a lot of pressure from bearing...
Why a Podiatrist? Maybe you’ve never visited a podiatrist before. Perhaps you’ve never seen a need to go to a foot and ankle doctor, and therefore, the topic has not been given much thought. That’s okay. I’m here today to tell you why seeing a podiatrist may be just what...
Steps to Eliminate Heel Pain, Part Three If you’re ready to say goodbye to your heel pain, today is the day. This is Doctor Paul Betschart, and I am a podiatrist here in Danbury. Let’s take a look at part three of my series on steps to eliminating heel pain....
Steps to Eliminate Heel Pain, Part Two “Ow!” Is that the word of the day for you most of the time? If so, you need relief from your foot pain fast. I’m here to help. I’m Doctor Paul Betschart and I am a foot doctor in Danbury. Today, I would...
Steps to Eliminate Heel Pain, Part One If you suffer with intense heel pain, you will be excited to read today’s post. Hello friends, this is Doctor Paul Betschart, and I’m here today to give residents of Danbury tips on eliminating heel pain. One of the ways to find relief...
I know that many foot ailments can be life-interrupting.I’m Doctor Paul Betschart, a podiatrist in Danbury. Sometimes foot pain can be excruciating and keep you from doing the things that you would like. Sometimes unsightly afflictions can cause embarrassment to the point where you cover your feet as much as...
The Connection Between Weight and Flatfoot Many people may not realize how much their weight affects their feet, but it is actually quite a significant factor in one’s health and well-being. Good day, Danbury! This is Doctor Paul Betschart here to talk to you today about the connection between our...
What is Diabetic Foot? It is estimated that nearly 25% of individuals that have been diagnosed with diabetes experience complications with their feet. Hi, I’m Doctor Paul Betschart, and I have a podiatry practice here in Danbury, CT. I know how difficult it can be sometimes to fight the condition...
The Podiatristâs War Against Foot Ulcers Foot ulcers. I shudder just thinking about them. I’m Doctor Paul Betschart, and I’m a podiatrist here in Danbury, CT. I am on a mission to help my patients combat foot ulcers and eliminate them entirely. Foot ulcers are sneaky, especially since they start...
Risk Factors for Foot Fractures I’m Doctor Paul Betschart, a podiatrist in Danbury, where we love making your feet happy. Today, I want to talk to you about some of the risk factors for foot fractures, which are more common than you might think. Foot fractures stem from shock and...
Tips for Those with a Foot Fracture Foot fractures can be very painful. I know; I help people with the condition all the time. I’m Doctor Paul Betschart, and I am a podiatrist here in Danbury. I would like to give you a few tips for proper treatment of a...
What Does Fungal Nail Look Like? Fungal nail is not a pretty sight. If you have it, you know that there’s a serious issue with your nail. Hello everyone, this is Doctor Paul Betschart here today to give residents of Danbury a few pointers in identifying the common condition called...
From Painful to Pampered I know that you don’t want your feet to hurt anymore. You’re tired of the suffering, and you know that you need help. Well, you’ve come to the right place. I’m Doctor Betschart and I am a local foot doctor here in Danbury. I want to...
Healing Hammertoes, Part Three I’m Doctor Paul Betschart, your Podiatrist, and today we are going to wrap up our series on the foot condition called hammertoes. I hope that many of you in the Danbury area have found this information to be helpful. Many times people try to treat their...
Healing Hammertoes, Part Two Hammertoes are no fun; but then again, what kind of foot ailment is? Thankfully, there is hope for healing hammertoes. I’m Doctor Paul Betschart, and today I would like to present part two of my three part series on some of the home remedies that many...
Healing Hammertoes, Part One While some people may try to use home remedies in order to avoid seeing a doctor, when it comes to hammertoes, it is important not to take chances with your feet. I’m Doctor Paul Betschart, a podiatrist here in Danbury, CT, and I would like to...
What Are Hammertoes? Hammertoes are certainly an enigma. This progressive condition, however, is easy to identify. Hello friends; it’s Doctor Betschart, your favorite podiatrist here in Danbury. I would like to talk to you today about hammertoes and how to know if you indeed have this foot ailment. Hammertoes most...
Get Your Life Back I know that many foot ailments can be life-interrupting. I’m Doctor Paul Betschart, a podiatrist in Danbury, CT. Sometimes foot pain can be excruciating and keep you from doing the things that you would like. Sometimes unsightly afflictions can cause embarrassment to the point where you...
What Causes Neuropathy? If you suffer with the condition called neuropathy, it is important to find the root cause of the problem. Good day; I’m Doctor Paul Betschart and I operate a podiatry practice here in Danbury. Today, I would like to teach you about some of the main instigators...
What is Neuropathy?Neuropathy is an interesting foot ailment, since many can suffer from it and not even know it. I’m Doctor Paul Betschart and today’s blog is about the condition called neuropathy, which I tackle as a podiatrist here in Danbury. The word “neuro” stands for the body’s nervous system....
What is Plantar Fasciitis? Not everyone speaks Latin, so it’s understandable why the common layperson might not be familiar with a number of terms that I often use in my podiatry office, such as Plantar Fasciitis. Greetings; my name is Doctor Paul Betschart and I help people every day in...
Does your child have significant heel pain so that they walk with difficulty? If so they may have a heel bone that is growing too fast in a growth spurt. This is a kind of growing pain where the tendons and muscles are tightly stretched because they cannot keep up...
Tips for Those with Ankle Sprains, Part TwoAnkle sprains are extremely common, but so are the mistakes that people make when treating a sprain. This is Doctor Betschart. Letâs look at part two of my three-part podiatry series for residents of Connecticut about ankle sprains. If you suffer a sprain,...
If you have Achilles tendonitis, or an inflamed Achilles tendon, you would definitely know it. This condition causes swelling at the back of your heel along with sharp pain, usually after an exercise session. The Achilles tendon is a tissue that connects the calf muscle to your heel bone. When...
Do you have neuropathy? This condition arises when the nerves are damaged so they canât do their job â transmitting sensory or muscle information. Peripheral neuropathy causes numbness and pain in the hands and feet. All nerves outside the spinal cord and brain comprise the peripheral nervous system which link...
You know the feeling: that awful split second when youâve stubbed a toe and you wait for the pain to rush in. Stubbing a toe is a very common injury, especially when barefoot. Although painful, a stubbed toe is not usually very serious. But pay attention if the pain persists...
Tips for Those with Ankle Sprains, Part OneMany active and athletic individuals suffer with ankle sprains. It is important to treat this crippling condition promptly as there may be other underlying issues accompanying the sprain. This is Doctor Paul Betschart, and today I would like to share with those of...
Did you make any New Yearâs Resolutions for 2016? According to Time.com, 2 of the top 3 resolutions are health-related: live a healthier lifestyle and lose weight. Taking good care of your body is a big part of living a healthier lifestyle, and donât forget your feet! Often we take...
Mortonâs Neuroma is an agonizing condition. As a podiatrist, I can tell you that this condition is certainly nothing you want to ignore. Hi, my name is Doctor Paul Betschart and I would like to teach my friends in Connecticut today about the interesting yet debilitating disease called Mortonâs Neuroma....
Have you noticed a bump on the back of your heel just where the top of your shoe hits the skin? This bony enlargement is called Haglundâs deformity. Also called âpump bumpâ because women who wear pump-type shoes often have them, these growths form at the back of the heel...
