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Podiatrist - Cromwell
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Cromwell, CT 06416

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Posts for category: Foot Condtions

October 25, 2021
Category: Foot Condtions

It’s the time of year for frightening ghost stories and ghoulish costumes, and at Feet First Foot Care Specialists, we want to join in the Halloween spirit with three foot disorders whose names may strike fear into our Middlesex County patients but, really, are nothing to dread.

  1. Onychomycosis—You may better know this condition as toenail fungus. While not usually a serious threat to your health, it can have some gruesome symptoms, including a thickened, brownish-yellow appearance and a foul smell. Fungal toenail infections can spread to the skin or fingernails. Often accompanied by a secondary bacterial or yeast infection, our podiatrist, Dr. Adam Mucinskas, should treat this. You can help prevent onychomycosis by keeping your feet clean and dry and avoiding wearing tight socks and not walking barefoot in public places.
  2. Black Toenail—If you have one of these, you may feel like an alien or like you have some ghastly disease, but it is quite common if you are a runner. The frequent, repetitive pounding of your toes up against the inside of your sneakers can cause bleeding between the nail plate and the nail bed. A black toenail is also common if you have recently dropped a heavy object on your toe or stubbed it badly.
  3. Tinea Pedis— “I have what???” Relax, tinea pedis is the official medical term for athlete’s foot. And although the itching may make you feel like you’re going insane, this condition is treatable with a topical or oral antifungal medication prescribed by the podiatrist. You can reduce your risk for athlete’s foot by keeping your feet dry. If you tend to perspire heavily, have a spare pair of socks in your bag or desk and change when you feel your feet are damp. Don’t share items that touch other people’s feet, as tinea pedis is highly contagious and transmitted by direct contact.

No foot symptom is too scary for your podiatrist! If you are experiencing any concerning symptoms or have noticed unsightly changes in your feet, don’t hesitate to contact our Cromwell office by calling 860-632-5499 for an appointment.

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By Feet First Foot Care Specialists
October 18, 2021
Category: Foot Condtions

In October, we at Feet First Foot Care Specialists recognize Raynaud’s Awareness Month. This year’s theme, “Raynaud’s is Far From Rare,” emphasizes that this disease, while widespread, is not well known.

See how much you know about Raynaud’s by taking our true/false quiz below:

  • True or False: Raynaud’s is more prevalent than leukemia, Parkin’s disease, and multiple sclerosis combined.

A: True. In the U.S., it’s estimated that between 15 and 30 million people have Raynaud’s Disease. Only one in ten seek treatment, however.

  • True or False: Everyone has the same risk of getting Raynaud’s.

A: False. While it’s possible for anyone at any age to get this condition, it affects more women than men. In fact, it’s believed to strike 20% of all women of childbearing age. Raynaud’s is also most likely to start between the ages of 15 and 30.

  • True or False: Cold toes and fingers are a symptom of Raynaud’s.

A: True. But for people with this condition, the discomfort is more extreme. People with Raynaud’s may experience numbness, throbbing, and pain in their fingers and toes. The skin will also turn blue or white. Vasospasms cause these symptoms in the small blood vessels, which restrict blood flow to these areas.

  • True or False: Only people who live in cold climates get Raynaud’s.

A: False. While cold weather triggers Raynaud’s, air conditioning can also trigger or taking something out of the freezer or cold water. In addition, stress also appears to be a significant trigger for Raynaud’s.

  • True or False: Doctors know what causes Raynaud’s, and there are medications to treat it.

A: False and false. Raynaud’s cause is unknown, although certain factors have been identified to increase the risk of developing this condition. These include family history, smoking, taking certain medications, and others. Raynaud’s can also be associated with more serious medical problems like lupus and arterial disease. While there is no medication or cure, doctors can help you identify triggers and reduce discomfort and frequency of attacks.

If you have concerns about your feet and Raynaud’s, contact our Cromwell office by calling 860-632-5499 for an appointment so our podiatrist, Dr. Adam Mucinskas, can evaluate your feet and determine the source of your symptoms.

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By Feet First Foot Care Specialists, LLC
April 26, 2018
Category: Foot Condtions
Tags: sprains   overweight  

Feet typically swell up because of fluid retention. Fluid retention in the feet can be an absolutely innocuous thing caused by everyday activities, like being on your feet all day, or it can be a sign of something else. There are a wide variety of issues, illnesses, and injuries that can make your feet swell up. Some of them require you to see your podiatrist as soon as possible.

Some reasons your feet might be swelling:

  • Sprains. Even barring noticeable pain or discomfort, a sprain or other injury can cause your feet or ankle to swell up. Even just a slight twist can cause swelling if it happens in just the right place. If it continues, contact your foot doctor.
  • Being overweight. Excess pounds can put pressure on your feet and cause them to swell. A medical professional or a nutritionist can help you find a path to losing weight.
  • Low blood flow. Blood vessel or artery problems can make it tough for fluid to leave your feet. This is especially common if you smoke or regularly drink alcohol. Your doctor can help you quit smoking when you’re ready.
  • Organ disease. Diseases of your kidneys, liver, heart, or lungs can all make your feet and ankles swell, as well as other parts of your body.
  • Medical side effects. Certain antidepressants, steroids, blood pressure medications, or hormone replacement therapies can cause swelling. Always check with your doctor if you’re experiencing side effects from medication.
  • Diet. Sometimes diets high in salt can cause fluid to pool in the feet. Ensure you’re eating a good balance of foods for your age and lifestyle.

If you experience swelling in your feet and ankles, especially if coupled with headaches or other pains, it might a sign of a serious issue. At Feet First Foot Care Specialists, we can help assess and treat any issues causing swelling. Dr. Adam Mucinskas stays abreast of the latest technologies and treatments in podiatric medicine. To schedule an appointment at our convenient Cromwell Connecticut office, request one online or call us today at 860-632-5499.

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By Feet First Foot Care Specialists, LLC
April 05, 2018
Category: Foot Condtions
Tags: bunions   arthritis   Hallux Valgus   Hammertoe  

Bunions are a very common bone deformity of the joint on the outside of your big toe. It is estimated that 33 percent of the Western population suffers from bunions. When your toe moves out of place, the joint enlarges, causing the toe to protrude inward. This protrusion often interferes with your other toes, causing issues such as hammertoe or Hallux Valgus. Not only can bunions lead to these other issues, but they themselves can be very painful if left untreated. Here are some common causes of bunions:

  1. Ill-fitting shoes. Shoes that are too tight are the number one cause of bunions. High heels are also a culprit in causing bunions, as they often change the natural shape of the feet and squish together the toes.
  2. Your family line. Bunions are not hereditary themselves, but the build of your feet is. If you know that your parents suffer from bunions, you should take precautions to avoid getting them yourself.
  3. Foot injuries. Jamming your toe out of place, acutely or repeatedly over time, can contribute to the formation of a bunion.
  4. Arthritis. Arthritis can set in in your toe joints, which can accelerate the potential to form a bunion. If you have arthritis, watch out for early signs of bunions.

Bunions are deformities in the bone which cannot resolve themselves and need medical treatment. At Feet First Foot Care Specialists, we work to treat bunions twofold: relieve the pressure and pain, and stop the growth. If you’re looking for relief from your painful bunion, or if you are noticing the first signs of one, schedule an appointment today. Dr. Adam Mucinskas is board certified and keeps up with all the latest trends in podiatry and foot health. 

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By Feet First Foot Care Specialists, LLC
March 29, 2018
Category: Foot Condtions
Tags: foot odor  

Does your wife make a face every time you slip your shoes off after exercising? Can you smell your teenager’s shoes from across the hall even from behind a closet door? Foot odor is a common issue that has many causes and, thankfully, many solid solutions. Here are some common causes and fixes for foot odor:

Sweaty feet. Your feet have an astounding 250,000 sweat glands. Sweat causes odor by mixing with naturally occurring bacteria on your skin and in your shoes.

Suffocated feet. Hard nylon or plastic shoes can contain the sweat and bacteria inside, causing a nasty aroma blast when you remove them at the end of the day. Try some air-circulating materials like canvas or mesh.

The perpetual sock-wearer. Never wear your socks more than one day without washing them. Mix up the shoes you wear too, changing every few days at least. If your feet sweat a lot, change your socks once or twice during the day.

Wicking socks. Speaking of socks, make sure yours are the right material. Wicking socks, typically made from synthetic blends or from acrylic fibers, can get rid of the sweat from your 250,000 sweat glands. Thick cotton or wool socks are great for the winter but can trap in moisture and cause your feet to stink.

Not wearing socks. If you’re wearing a closed-toe shoe, socks are a must. They help absorb the sweat that would just be swimming around in a shoe.

Wash your feet. Rinse your feet well, ensuring you clean the soles and between the toes. After bathing, make sure you dry all areas well.

At Feet First Foot Care Specialists, we’re not afraid of a little foot odor! If you feel like you’ve tried everything and you can’t get rid of the smell, it might be time to give us a call. Dr. Adam Mucinskas can see you at our conveniently located office in Cromwell, Connecticut area.

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