Dr. Jay Mermelstein, DPM

First, make sure it is a fungus. Many thick dystrophic nails can be caused by factors. A podiatrist would be able to help, or a dermatologist if you so desired.

Dr. Jay

You need an accurate diagnosis before you treat your feet. Diabetes especially if not well controlled is an added risk factor. Most heel pain can be treated without surgery.

First make sure it is a blister. Blisters can form from too much friction from a tight shoe. Proper fitting footwear may help. Location of the blister or blisters may be a clue. Without examination it is difficult to give the best advice because each patient is different and may respond differently to different treatments. If in fact it is a blister OTC silicone protectors are available to reduce friction.

Good research may be hard to find but a valid study on the device would be helpful. Many holistic treatments help people but many do not. I personally have not heard of these shoes. Heel pain when it’s worse in the morning or after rest know as post static dyskinesia pain upon motion after rest is usually associated with inflammation. In the heel area plantar fasciitis as a differential diagnosis. Clinical evaluation by a podiatrist would be helpful.

Feeling swollen vs actually being swollen can be due to different reasons. Medical history had to be taken into consideration. An example is neuropathies nerve issues can make the bottom of feet feel many things numbness, tingling, patients will at times say they feel like a sock is rolled up on the bottom of their foot. Obviously it would be a good idea to see a medical professional.

Yes Another possibility is bromhydrosis which are sweaty feet that delelop an odor from bacteria. Either condition can be treated. The accurate diagnosis with proper treatment is the key.

It’s very difficult to diagnose a skin lesion without seeing it. It is best to see a foot doctor for an accurate diagnosis. Some calluses look like a wart and some warts look like a callus.

Dr. Jay Mermelstein, DPM, DABPM

Chronic ingrowing toenails can be managed conservatively if they are non infected and incurvated aka a mild ingrowing nail If you are getting chronic ingrown nails that are painful and possibly infected, you could have a partial permanent removal of the side that is a chronic problem. The most common way after the ingrowing nail is removed a chemical, i.e., Phenol is often used to carefully kill the nail matrix known as the nail root. Some podiatrists will surgically excise the root, but a majority of podiatrists use a chemical like phenol. When it excised with instruments only it is referred as a cold steel procedure. A patient can always get a second opinion if there is any doubt or confusion.

Jay Mermelstein, DPM, DABP