Answers to Some of Your Most Common Questions about Your Feet

By Joseph Gershey, DPM

Question: What can be done for a broken toe?

Answer: Many times, broken toes become displaced when injured and require the toe(s) to be realigned. Usually, toes are splinted to adjacent toes to correct alignment while healing. Symptoms of a broken toe include discoloration, swelling, and pain. If broken toes go untreated, there is a greater chance for problems in the future. The most common toe fracture is caused by bumping the toe against a piece of furniture. Those with decreased circulation, diabetes, or a lack of sensation require immediate medical attention when a broken toe injury occurs.

Question: How does smoking affect my lower extremity?

Answer: Smoking or use of any tobacco product decreases circulation and the body’s ability to heal. For those patients with skin ulcerations or infections, this can be very severe in that a small problem may lead to a larger one. Poor circulation is a condition that could lead to amputation. If a patient presents with calf pain or muscle cramps while walking or sleeping, vascular testing is imperative.

Question: How do I know my shoes fit properly?

Answer: The toe box should allow for all toes to wiggle. Clearance between the longest toe and the end of the shoe should be approximately one-half inch. Make sure the heel fits snugly enough to prevent rubbing or blisters. Leather and mesh canvas materials are excellent for avoiding pressure and proper ventilation. A rule of thumb when buying shoes: The shape of the shoe should resemble the shape of the foot.

Question: Because I have arthritis, do I have to be less active?

Answer: No. Although you may have to choose the right activity/sport, like swimming, bicycling, yoga, walking, and gardening, it is important to balance rest with activity. But know your limits: If you are experiencing pain after prolonged activity decrease your duration. Keeping a positive outlook and consulting your podiatrist will help to keep you active even with arthritis.

Question: Why can’t I treat my own corns, calluses, and warts at home?

Answer: A variety of over-the-counter medications are available, however, many contain acids that can create a chemical burn if applied incorrectly. You must have normal sensation and a good blood supply to use these products. They are not recommended for diabetics and those with poor circulation. Remember, the acid cannot distinguish between callused and healthy skin. Also, what may take weeks to dissolve with these removers, your podiatrist can remove in a shorter amount of time.

Question: What can be done for my chronic ingrown toenails?

Answer: In most cases, patients are responsible for causing their own ingrown toenails. Improper trimming is often to blame. Nails should be trimmed straight across whenever possible and left slightly longer than the tip of the toe. For those patients who have a chronic deformity causing their ingrown toenails, a simple office-based procedure is the best permanent treatment. A small portion of the nail root (or matrix) is either removed or cauterized to prevent the offending nail from re-growing. Minimal disability is involved postoperatively.