EXPERT
Dr. Mireille Blanchette
Podiatrist (Foot and Ankle Specialist)
Dr. Mireille Blanchette is a podiatrist practicing in Bronx, NY. Dr. Blanchette is a medical doctor specializing in the treatment of the foot, ankle, and related parts of the leg. As a podiatrist, Dr. Blanchette diagnoses and treats conditions of the feet. The feet are key body parts that give a person stability, absorb shock, allow for walking and standing, and are necessary for overall well-being. So, the feet need expert care. Podiatrists can specialize in surgery, wound care, sports medicine, diabetic care, and pediatrics.
Dr. Mireille Blanchette
- Accepting new patients
What is the Difference Between a Podiatrist and an Orthopedist?
As a podiatrist, I get this question a lot. What is the difference between a podiatrist and an orthopedist? Let’s review the differences and similarities between both professions....
Comforting a blister?
Blisters can be very painful and I am sorry you are going through that. Draining it in a clean/sterile fashion can help to decrease the pressure. I recommend to use iodine or rubbing READ MORE
Blisters can be very painful and I am sorry you are going through that. Draining it in a clean/sterile fashion can help to decrease the pressure. I recommend to use iodine or rubbing alcohol to clean the area. A clean pair of nail clippers can be used to clip a small portion of the roof of the blister to let the fluid escape.
It can then be covered with a band-aid and antibiotic ointment.
The trick is to rest as much as possible while it is healing. Basically the top layer of the skin as to grow back. Do not remove the top of the blister.
The next step, once it’s healed is to figure out why this happened. It might have been from an ill fitting shoe. It could also be from the way you walk with causes too much pressure at the ball of the foot. In this instance, paddings can be added in the shoes to decrease the friction. Even a custom molded orthotics can be a great way to prevent future issues.
When in doubt, call your podiatrist!
It can then be covered with a band-aid and antibiotic ointment.
The trick is to rest as much as possible while it is healing. Basically the top layer of the skin as to grow back. Do not remove the top of the blister.
The next step, once it’s healed is to figure out why this happened. It might have been from an ill fitting shoe. It could also be from the way you walk with causes too much pressure at the ball of the foot. In this instance, paddings can be added in the shoes to decrease the friction. Even a custom molded orthotics can be a great way to prevent future issues.
When in doubt, call your podiatrist!
My ankle is swollen?
First of all, I am glad to see that radiographs were negative for a fracture. There are many reasons that can lead to swelling in the ankle. Venous insufficiency is one. This happens READ MORE
First of all, I am glad to see that radiographs were negative for a fracture. There are many reasons that can lead to swelling in the ankle. Venous insufficiency is one. This happens when the veins in the legs are not functioning properly anymore. Joint damage can also present as pain and swelling. An injury like a sprain or tendinitis could lead to pain and swelling but could still have negative X-rays. A blood clot in the leg can also show up as swelling on only one leg/ankle. This should be ruled out since it could be dangerous. The best way to find help is to consult with a podiatrist or your primary care physician. Good luck!
Can you fix the nerve damage in the foot?
There are many reasons why nerves can be damaged in the foot. For example, a neuroma consists of inflammation of a nerve going to the toes. It can be treated with shoe modifications, READ MORE
There are many reasons why nerves can be damaged in the foot.
For example, a neuroma consists of inflammation of a nerve going to the toes. It can be treated with shoe modifications, orthotics, padding, infection, surgery etc. Neuropathy is another type of nerve damage. The root cause should be found and attempt at reversing it can be used. For example, patients with diabetes can develop neuropathy. Controlling the blood sugar can sometimes help.
Another type of nerve issue is tarsal tunnel syndrome. It is similar to its better known “cousin” carpal tunnel syndrome. It is inflammation of the tibial nerve and it can have many different causes. These can be mechanical, from a tumor, from varicose veins, etc.
The best way to specifically answer your question is to go see your podiatrist and to be evaluated.
Good luck!
For example, a neuroma consists of inflammation of a nerve going to the toes. It can be treated with shoe modifications, orthotics, padding, infection, surgery etc. Neuropathy is another type of nerve damage. The root cause should be found and attempt at reversing it can be used. For example, patients with diabetes can develop neuropathy. Controlling the blood sugar can sometimes help.
Another type of nerve issue is tarsal tunnel syndrome. It is similar to its better known “cousin” carpal tunnel syndrome. It is inflammation of the tibial nerve and it can have many different causes. These can be mechanical, from a tumor, from varicose veins, etc.
The best way to specifically answer your question is to go see your podiatrist and to be evaluated.
Good luck!
