Patient Questions

Jonathan Kletz is an Expert Contributor on FindaTopDoc. Here are some of their recent answers to patient questions.

Podiatrist (Foot and Ankle Specialist)
Jonathan Kletz

Every diabetic should see a podiatrist at least once a year. Tremendous pain in your feet could be to nerve issues. Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM

Generally physician will anesthetize the toe. Once it is anesthetized, a portion of the nail be removed and generally a chemical is put on the nail root to try to prevent it from reoccurring. Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM

Bunions are usually caused by several different factors. The mechanics of the foot is a major factor in contributing to bunion deformity. Taking care of your feet, as well as wearing good shoes is a good start. Sometimes individuals have by mechanical issues that require some type of custom-made arch support to try to prevent or the bunion deformity. Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM

This could be a bone spur or some type of bone growth. I would recommend an X-ray and have the area examined. Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM

The swelling in your feet may not be secondary to inflammation from the plantar fasciitis. Swelling can be coming from other medical issues such as diet, vein issues and heart issues. Recommend see her primary care physician for evaluation. Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM

Ingrown toenail can have many different appearances. Sometimes there is redness, swelling, and even drainage. Sometimes you can palpate the portion of the nail that is ingrowing and when you push on it causes pain. Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM

Calluses are usually caused by excess pressure. Trimming a callus can give temporary relief. Getting some type of insole or orthotic that is custom-made can alleviate pressure as well. Jonathan M. Kletz, D.P.M.

Recurrent ingrowing toenails are usually easily fixed with an ingrown toenail procedure that uses a chemical to destroy the nail root to try to prevent that portion of the nail from coming back. It's usually very successful in resolving the condition long-term. Jonathan M. Kletz, D.P.M.

Conservative treatment, if it is a bone growth, would be to reduce pressure with insoles or changing shoes. Would recommend X-rays to evaluate the growth to make sure that it is not a cyst or bone tumor. The other option would be to remove the bone growth. Would recommend seeing physician. Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM

Conservative treatment for a bunion would consist of changing shoes, orthotics, and reducing pressure as well as oral anti-inflammatory medication. Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM

This could be as simple as a cyst under the skin or potentially some type of bone growth/tumor/cyst. Would recommend an X-ray to evaluate the bone structures of the ankle. Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM

Hammertoe deformity is usually caused by a tendon imbalance and, overtime, the toe contracts, forming a hammertoe. Changing shoes to a softer material can help alleviate pressure and prevent corns and pain. Jonathan M. Kletz, DPM

I was make an appointment to see a foot specialist or a wound care specialist to evaluate wound for x-rays and treatment.

Generally, if there is gangrene amputation is the only solution. Prior to surgery. You would want to make sure that blood supply can be improved as best as possible.

Wearing a custom-made orthotic or arch support can be very beneficial in improving the mechanics and function of your feet. This can avoid injuries and pain.

Individuals perspire different amounts. You can try applying an antiperspirant/deodorant to see if this helps reduce moisture.

Getting orthotics or some type of rigid arch support can be beneficial in improving the mechanics and functioning of your feet.

It could be just due to friction or pressure. It could also be due to some nerve issue that gives you the feeling of numbness and rawness. It could be related to lower back issues if you have any.

The swelling could be due to many reasons. Diet, amount of fluid in your body, activity and potential soft tissue injury. Recommend evaluation by physician.

You probably have a condition called plantar fasciitis which is inflammation of the ligament on the bottom are foot that attaches to the heel. Stretching exercises, ice can be beneficial. Arch supports can also be beneficial. If this does not help would recommend seeking a specialist opinion and evaluation.