A broken toe occurs when one of the small bones in a toe cracks or breaks. The injury can range from a small hairline crack to a break in which pieces of bone move out of their normal position. Broken toes can result from stubbing a toe, dropping a heavy object on the foot, or forcefully bending a toe. A stress fracture, which is a small crack caused by repeated pressure, can also develop after a sudden increase in activities like running or walking. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and bruising. Some patients hear or feel a snap or pop when the injury happens. The injured toe can also appear crooked or out of position.

A podiatrist can evaluate a painful toe to determine whether a fracture is present and how serious the injury is. The examination can include checking the toe for tenderness, swelling, and changes in position. An X-ray can help confirm a fracture or determine whether the toe is dislocated. Treatment depends on which toe is injured and where the break is located. The severity of the fracture also affects treatment decisions. Injuries to the big toe can require more medical attention because this toe has an important role in balance and movement. A podiatrist can determine the appropriate treatment and monitor the toe as the bone heals.

Podiatric treatment for a broken toe focuses on keeping the injured bone in a proper position and protecting it while it heals. Depending on the fracture, a podiatrist can use buddy taping, a splint, or a cast to stabilize the toe. Buddy taping means securing the injured toe to a neighboring healthy toe for support. More serious fractures can require additional treatment, and surgery can be an option for a severe break. A podiatrist can also determine when it is safe to return to regular activities. Proper treatment is important because an untreated fracture can lead to lasting pain, limited movement, or a change in the toe's shape. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM from Seaford Foot Care Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Seaford, and Bethpage, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels develop when the skin surrounding the heel becomes dry and begins to split. Shallow cracks can affect only the outer layer of skin and cause little discomfort. Deeper cracks can become painful and sometimes bleed. Dry skin is an important factor because skin that lacks moisture is less flexible and more likely to split under pressure. Aging can contribute because the skin loses moisture more easily as people get older. Athlete’s foot and eczema can also cause dry or irritated skin that increases the chance of heel cracking.

Certain vitamin deficiencies have also been linked with dry, cracked skin. Vitamin E helps protect skin cells and supports healthy skin. Vitamin B-3, also called niacin, helps the body turn food into energy and supports skin health. Severe vitamin B-3 deficiency can cause dry, scaly skin. Vitamin C supports collagen production, which helps give skin structure and strength. A serious vitamin C deficiency can contribute to dry skin and slow wound healing. However, deficiencies of these vitamins are considered rare in developed countries, so cracked heels do not necessarily indicate a nutritional problem.

A podiatrist can examine cracked heels and determine whether another foot or skin problem is contributing to the condition. An evaluation is especially important when cracks are deep, painful, or bleeding. Patients with diabetes or nerve damage should also have cracked heels evaluated because foot wounds can become more serious. A podiatrist can remove thickened skin safely and recommend treatment to protect damaged areas. Care can also address fungal infections or other conditions affecting the skin. Proper treatment can reduce discomfort and help protect the heels from further damage. If you have developed cracked heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which may include prescribed medication.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM from Seaford Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Seaford, and Bethpage, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Falling at work can injure the feet and ankles through sudden twisting, impact, or excessive force. A workplace fall may affect bones, ligaments, or nerves. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight. Some injuries appear immediately, while others become more painful as inflammation develops. Even when a person can still walk, an injury may require professional evaluation.

Ankle sprains are common after a fall and occur when ligaments supporting the joint are stretched or torn. Fractures happen when bones crack or break from impact, twisting, or compression. Achilles tendon injuries affect the strong tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel and can range from irritation to a complete rupture. Additionally, nerve injuries may cause numbness, tingling, burning, or changes in sensation around the foot or ankle.

Workplace risks include wet floors, uneven surfaces, and poor lighting. Employees who climb stairs, work at heights, or carry materials may face additional fall hazards. Previous injuries can also increase risk because the foot or ankle may have reduced strength, flexibility, or stability. Recognizing hazards and reporting unsafe conditions can help reduce preventable workplace injuries.

A podiatrist evaluates the injury by reviewing the accident and examining the foot and ankle. The assessment may include checking circulation, sensation, and joint stability. Imaging can help identify fractures or significant soft-tissue damage. Treatment may include wearing protective footwear, bracing, and activity modification, depending on the diagnosis. Follow-up appointments allow the podiatrist to monitor healing and adjust care as needed. If you have suffered a foot injury after falling at work, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM from Seaford Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Seaford, and Bethpage, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Long-lasting foot pain becomes more common with age and can make everyday activities more difficult for many older adults. Years of standing, walking, and joint stress may gradually affect the feet and lead to discomfort that limits balance and mobility. Certain health conditions, including diabetes and osteoarthritis, which is a form of joint wear that causes stiffness and inflammation, may increase the likelihood of chronic foot problems. Extra body weight can also place additional strain on the feet and ankles over time. Seniors frequently experience foot issues such as thickened skin, painful pressure areas, changes in toenail growth, and toe deformities that make walking uncomfortable. In some cases, foot pain may also contribute to reduced activity and a lower quality of life. A podiatrist can identify the source of discomfort and recommend treatment to improve comfort, stability, and movement. If you are a senior and chronic foot pain is affecting your daily routine, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for evaluation and appropriate treatment.

If you need your feet checked, contact Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM of Seaford Foot Care Center. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Seaford, and Bethpage, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.