Frequent Asked Questions from Patients

Do you have questions or concerns about foot problems or procedures?

You can send a message to Dr. Moskowiz. Also, call at (845) 298-7888.

He is always pleased to answer your questions and assist you.

Does foot surgery require hospitalization?

Not usually. Surgical procedures may be performed in the office or in an outpatient setting. Your podiatric surgeon is well qualified to discuss the needs of your particular case. Surgery may be performed under local anesthesia or with light sedation administered by a trained anesthesia specialist. Your surgeon will advise you on the best possible postoperative care, so that your recovery will be rapid and as comfortable as possible.

What is worn on the foot following surgery?

Each surgical procedure requires a different type of foot immobilization such as a bandage, splint, surgical shoe, cast, or open sandal. Good post-operative results require proper foot support to prevent future problems. Early use of leg and foot muscles hastens recovery. After sufficient healing time, most patients can resume wearing their usual footwear.

What is the treatment for an intermetatarsal neuroma?

The goal of treatment is to reduce or eliminate symptoms, so that you can maintain your normal lifestyle. Although some patients may not receive complete relief, it is expected that the vast majority will gain significant improvement from therapy. Treatment may be surgical or non-surgical.

Non-surgical treatment is often attempted before surgical intervention. Your podiatric surgeon will decide the appropriate method of therapy for you. Conservative treatment for an intermetatarsal neuroma usually includes modifying shoes, ultrasound therapy, medication, or orthotics (arch supports). These conservative therapies may provide complete, partial or no relief of symptoms. The decision to surgically intervene is based on your symptoms, the judgment of your podiatric surgeon and your preference. A neurectomy or surgical removal of a neuroma is performed when conservative treatment proves ineffective.

What causes corns and calluses? 

Corns and calluses are your body's response to friction or pressure against the skin. If your foot rubs inside your shoe, the affected area of skin thickens. Or if a bone is not in the normal position, skin caught between bone and shoe or bone and ground builds up. In either case, the outer layer of skin thickens to protect the foot from unusual pressure. In many cases, corns and calluses look bad but are not harmful. However, more severe corns and calluses may become infected, destroy healthy tissue, or affect foot movement. But with your doctor's help, corns and calluses can be controlled.

Why are pressure ulcers dangerous?

Pressure ulcers are sores that occur when pressure cots off the blood supply to the skin. Stress caused by the body's weight and the impact of striking the ground place the ball of the foot, the big toe, and the heel at greatest risk. Left untreated, an ulcer may allow infection to enter your body. If infection reaches the bloodstream or bone, your life or limb may be at risk. But with your doctor's help, your health can be protected. Pressure ulcers can be controlled and even prevented.

Why do I have a bunion?

A bunion is most often a symptom of faulty mechanics of the foot. A fracture or break into the joint may lead to arthritic changes and the development of bunion deformities with limited range of motion. Bunions may also be associated with various forms of arthritis. the arthritis can cause the joint's protective covering of cartilage to deteriorate leaving the joint damaged with a decreased range of motion.

What is a hammertoe?

A hammertoe deformity is a contracture of the toe(s), frequently caused by the imbalance in the tendon or joints of the toes. It is often aggravated by poor-fitting shoes or socks that cramp the toes. Those with rheumatoid arthritis, high arches or a tendency to rotate their feet inward when walking are especially susceptible. Corns and calluses usually form over time as a hammertoe becomes more rigid, making it difficult to wear shoes.

Can I get arthritis in my feet?

Did you know that signs of arthritis - the symptoms include joint swelling, pain, tenderness, heat, redness, and/or limitation of motion, plus early morning stiffness, and skin rashes - often show up first in the feet? Since arthritis attacks the joints - and each of your feet has 33 joints - it is easy to understand how arthritis can seriously affect foot function. Fortunately, there is much you can do offset these effects on your feet and stay as active as you want to be.

Is it true that diabetics have to take special care of their feet?

All of us are likely to have problems with our feet, but diabetics may develop serious problems more quickly and have more complications, especially when circulation or nerves are impaired. The key for the diabetic is to view all foot problems as potentially dangerous and to prevent them or seek podiatric medical care as soon as they occur. Proper foot care can significantly reduce the risk of limb loss in diabetic patients.