From Dr. Kurlanski’s Desk

Many people try to DIY their foot problems away. Do-It-Yourself projects are fun and rewarding, but this is not the case when it comes to your feet. DIY patients often spend hundreds of dollars on the wrong shoes and over-the-counter treatment without resolving their foot pain. What if something goes wrong and the problem becomes worse?…

Ingrown toenails are a common injury and cause inflammation, soreness, and redness on your toe. Some people are predisposed to ingrown toenails while others may get ingrown toenails from repeated trauma or how they cut their nails. Here are 5 ways to prevent ingrown toenails: 1.     Wear proper fitting shoes Ill-fitting shoes are known to…

Does your job require that you stand for 5 to 8 hours each day? Have you gotten home to find that your heels and legs were aching after standing on concrete floors? Standing on your feet for work causes excessive strain on your back, hip, knees, and feet. If you are required to work even…

November is Diabetes Awareness Month. According to the CDC website, more than 37 million people in the United States have diabetes, and 1 in 5 of them don’t know they have it. 96 million US adults – over a third – have prediabetes, and more than 8 in 10 of them don’t know they have…

Winter is in full effect. Time to get your warm socks and winter boots out of the closet. You may already know properly fitting shoes are key to keeping your feet happy, but properly fitting socks can also impact your foot health. My grandmom used to give us socks for Christmas.  I used to think it…

Have you noticed swelling and pain when moving your big toe joint? Have you noticed a lump on top of the toe joint that gets irritated in shoes? You may have arthritis in your big toe joint otherwise known as hallux limitus. “Hallux” is the big toe and “Limitus” means limitation. Hallux Limitus is a…

Walking is a great low-tech habit to improve or maintain your overall health at any age. Exercise does not need to be fancy and expensive to be effective. No special equipment is required to go for a walk.   For the most benefit we recommend walking 30 minutes per day.  Best of all walking is…

How Vitamin D, Vitamin C, and Biotin Can Keep Your Feet Strong and Healthy Maintaining foot health is important for overall wellness and mobility. Our feet bear the weight of our entire body and are subject to a lot of wear and tear, so it’s important to take care of them. There are several vitamins…

Plantar warts, also known as verrucas, are small, noncancerous growths that appear on the soles of the feet. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and are highly contagious, making them a common problem for many people. While plantar warts can be treated, preventing them in the first place is the best course of…

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition that affects the ball of the foot, specifically the area between the third and fourth toes. It is caused by the thickening of the tissue that surrounds one of the nerves leading to the toes, which can result in numbness, tingling, and burning.  If left untreated can result in…

If you’re someone who suffers from plantar fasciitis you know just how painful it can be. Getting out of bed or standing up after sitting can be debilitating.   Heel pain, which affects the fibrous connective tissue that runs from your heel to the ball of your foot can make even the most basic daily…

We all know sudden hot flashes, brain fog, irritability, and poor sleep quality are symptoms of perimenopause and menopause but did you know that declining estrogen levels can also impact your feet?  As a female podiatrist, I appreciate the loss of estrogen for my patients.  Menopause does not directly cause foot pain but does result…

Running is a great way to stay in shape and improve overall health, but it can also lead to heel pain also known as plantar fasciitis.  If you’re a runner who is experiencing heel pain, you’re not alone. Don’t worry, there are ways to alleviate your heel pain and get you back on track. In…

Not all heel pain is from plantar fasciitis. Heel pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, one of which is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome. This condition is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist, but it occurs in the ankle. It is a result of compression of the posterior tibial nerve, which runs…

You may have hammertoes if you’ve noticed a bend in your toes that won’t go away.  Your toes may be working extra hard to compensate for a tight Achilles tendon causing you to grip the ground as you walk.  Over time the toes become contracted. Hammertoe is a general term.  A true hammertoe has a…

Sandal season is almost here.  New shoes can mean new hot spots and blisters on your feet and toes. The best predictor of a blister is an area that has previously blistered.  Once a blister develops, it can be very tempting to pop it. If the blister is intact and not painful we recommend leaving…

Foot health is crucial for overall well-being, and for those who require orthotic support, having a second pair of custom-molded orthotics can bring numerous advantages.  Ordering a second pair of orthotics is much more straightforward because most of the work has already been completed by the doctor, including biomechanical evaluation, diagnosis, and prescription writing. 1….

As a podiatrist, I often encounter patients struggling with fungal infections of the feet. Athlete’s foot infections can be uncomfortable, scaly, red, itchy, and persistent if not treated properly.  Ignoring thick yellow crumbly toenails will spread if left untreated. While it’s crucial to seek professional advice for treatment, practicing good home hygiene is equally important…

With the arrival of summer, it’s time to soak up the sun and enjoy outdoor activities. However, for individuals living with peripheral neuropathy, the summer heat and potential hazards can pose unique challenges.  Here are some essential tips to help patients with peripheral neuropathy make the most of the summer season while keeping their feet…

Congratulations on your new custom-molded orthotics! These customized devices are designed to provide optimal support, alignment, and comfort for your feet. As a podiatrist, I understand the importance of a proper break-in process to ensure that your orthotics seamlessly integrate with your feet and footwear.  Here is our step-by-step guide to properly break in your…

Toenail splitting, also known as onychoschizia, is a common condition that can cause discomfort and concern for many individuals. The toenail can split lengthwise or across the nail plate.  If you’ve experienced toenail splitting, you’re not alone.  Causes of Toenail Splitting: Trauma: Injuries such as stubbing your toe, dropping heavy objects on your foot, or…

Pre-season is here and summer is winding down.  Kids and coaches are eager to train to get ready for the upcoming fall sports season.  You may be shuttling your student to two practices a day!  Overtraining can cause injury such as heel pain in kids.  As adults, we tend to get plantar fasciitis or plantar…

Plantar warts are a common foot condition caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Unfortunately, misinformation and old wives’ tales have circulated for years regarding the treatment and prevention of plantar warts. We will debunk some of these myths and provide accurate information to help you understand and address plantar warts effectively. Myth 1: “Warts have…

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the skin, but it can also have an impact on the toenails. Nail psoriasis, a common manifestation of psoriasis, can cause significant discomfort and affect the aesthetic appearance of the nails. Understanding Psoriasis and its Effects on Toenails Psoriasis is characterized by an overactive immune response…

Understanding Plantar Fibromas: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Imagine having tiny, tough lumps growing on the bottom of your feet. These bumps, known as plantar fibromas, are a bit puzzling but also quite common. Let’s learn about them—what they are, why they happen, and what can be done about them. 1. What are Plantar Fibromas? Plantar…

As the summer sun begins to set, and the aroma of sharpened pencils fills the air, we find ourselves at that exciting juncture in the year – back to school time. It’s not only a period of fresh starts and new challenges for children and young adults, but it’s also a golden opportunity for parents…

Plantar warts can be a persistent and uncomfortable foot condition, often causing pain and discomfort with each step. While there are various treatments available, one of the latest breakthroughs in wart removal is Swift Microwave Therapy. In this blog post, let’s delve into how Swift Microwave Therapy works and why it’s gaining recognition as an…

Fungal nail infections, also known as onychomycosis, are a common and persistent condition that can cause discomfort and embarrassment. As a podiatrist, my goal is to help you navigate the journey of treating fungal nails effectively and setting realistic expectations for the process. It’s important to understand that treating fungal nails requires time, patience, and…

As a podiatrist, my primary goal is to help my patients regain their comfort when walking and standing, especially when faced with conditions like plantar fibromas. Plantar fibromas, those firm nodules that can develop on the bottom of the feet, can often lead to discomfort and pain making it crucial to explore effective treatment options. Several…

Toenails are a small yet crucial part of our bodies, serving an aesthetic purpose and playing a role in protecting our toes. However, toenails can sometimes fall off for various reasons, leaving many people puzzled and concerned.  Trauma One of the primary reasons toenails fall off is trauma. Trauma can be the result of various…

Fungal nails, medically termed onychomycosis, are a common and often frustrating condition that can lead to thickened, discolored, and brittle nails. Not all thick yellow nails have a fungal infection. Properly diagnosing fungal nails is crucial for effective treatment.  Fungal nail infections primarily stem from various types of fungi, with the most common culprits being…

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition characterized by nerve dysfunction that can affect the nerves outside of the spinal column. Peripheral neuropathy is a very general term for nerve damage or injury with a host of symptoms. Peripheral neuropathy can be caused by several conditions including diabetes, trauma, vitamin deficiency, alcohol use, shingles (herpes zoster), Lyme…

Ingrown toenails can be a very painful condition, causing discomfort and potential infections if not properly addressed. Sometimes attempting to manage ingrown toenails at home with soaking and topical antibiotic ointment is not enough. Patients who seek care from their PCP are often given an antibiotic, which only temporarily helps the condition. Seeking professional help…

Welcome to Lighthouse Foot and Ankle in Scarborough, Maine! I’m Dr. Michele Kurlanski, and I’m excited to share the many advantages of being a direct care, direct pay podiatrist who doesn’t participate with insurance. At Lighthouse Foot and Ankle, we prioritize delivering personalized, high-quality care that revolves around your specific needs and goals. Advantages of…

November is Diabetes Awareness Month. Having diabetes along with heel pain can be challenging to treat. Heel pain, which can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Heel pain in diabetics can stem from various causes, and understanding these factors is crucial for effective management and relief.  Why Do Diabetics Experience Heel Pain? Diabetes can contribute…

Peripheral neuropathy, a common condition among individuals with diabetes and other underlying health issues, can cause discomfort, pain, and tingling in the extremities. Managing this condition is crucial to improving quality of life and maintaining daily activities. While medical intervention is often necessary, there are several home treatments and lifestyle adjustments that can help alleviate…

November is Diabetes Awareness Month. Diabetes is a chronic condition that requires meticulous care and attention, especially when it comes to foot health. Individuals with diabetes are more prone to foot complications due to reduced blood circulation and nerve damage. One such common foot issue is an ingrown toenail, which can lead to infections and…

Diabetes is a complex chronic condition that affects various aspects of an individual’s health, including the feet. One common issue that people with diabetes often face is a higher susceptibility to fungal nail infections, medically known as onychomycosis. Fungal infections in the nails cannot only be painful and unsightly but can potentially lead to more…

Neuromas, those pesky inflamed nerves causing discomfort and pain in the ball of the feet, can be a real challenge for individuals striving to maintain an active and pain-free lifestyle. While traditional treatments have their merits, the emergence of laser therapy is a promising alternative to surgery and painful injections.  Understanding Neuromas: A Brief Overview…

Living with peripheral neuropathy can present daily challenges, but for many individuals, the struggle intensifies when the sun sets. Why does neuropathy seem to worsen at night, disrupting what should be a restful period? As a podiatrist specializing in treating peripheral neuropathy, let’s explore the reasons behind nighttime discomfort and discover strategies for achieving a…

As a podiatrist, I’ve seen firsthand the intricate ways in which lifestyle choices can influence foot health. Smoking, a habit often associated with detrimental effects on cardiovascular and respiratory health, also casts a shadow over the well-being of our feet. In this blog post, we’ll explore the profound impact of smoking on your feet and…

Orthotics can and should be comfortable and quiet.  No one should know that you are wearing them.  If you are embarrassed by your noisy orthotics we have some solutions. Identify the Culprit The first step in conquering the squeak is to locate its origin. Is it the orthotic against your shoe or the orthotic within…

Falls are a leading cause of injury in the elderly, often resulting in decreased mobility with the potential for serious consequences.  The significance of appropriate footwear for older individuals cannot be overstated, especially concerning falls prevention.  Properly fitting shoes play a pivotal role in mitigating the risk of falls among older adults. Here are some recommendations…

Dealing with dry, cracked heels can be both uncomfortable and unsightly. Establishing a consistent skincare regimen is key to promoting healing and preventing further issues. Here’s a step-by-step guide to caring for your dry, cracked heels 1. Soak and Exfoliate Start your regimen with a warm foot soak to soften the skin. Add a few…

As a podiatrist, I understand that the fear of needles may deter some from seeking essential foot care treatments. Treatments like ingrown toenail removal can be very painful without local anesthesia.  Needle phobia, also known as trypanophobia, is a common concern that can affect individuals of all ages. There are strategies to ease needle phobia,…

Fungal toenail infections, characterized by thickened, discolored, and brittle nails, can be both unsightly and uncomfortable. Laser treatment is a safe and effective option for addressing fungal toenails, offering patients a non-invasive solution with promising results. However, proper post-treatment care is essential to maximize the effectiveness of the procedure and prevent recurrence. Caring for your…

We treat infected ingrown toenails daily. After undergoing a partial toenail avulsion procedure, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to prevent the recurrence of ingrown toenails. We love seeing our patients but prefer for you to not have to undergo the procedure multiple times. Here are some essential tips to help you prevent a recurrent ingrown toenail…

Vacations are meant to be enjoyable and relaxing experiences, but dealing with heel pain can put a damper on your plans. Whether you’re exploring new destinations, hitting the beach, or embarking on an adventure, addressing heel pain before your vacation can ensure you make the most of your time away. Here’s how you can treat…

As a podiatrist, I often emphasize the importance of paying attention to the health of your feet, including the appearance of your toenails. Surprisingly, toenails can serve as a window into your overall health, reflecting underlying conditions that may require attention. Let’s explore how the appearance of your toenails can offer valuable insights into your…

As a podiatrist, I often find that many foot problems can be prevented or alleviated with proper toenail care. Trimming your toenails may seem like a simple task, but doing it incorrectly can lead to discomfort, pain, and even infections. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to ensure you’re trimming your toenails…

Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints. When it strikes the feet, arthritis can significantly impact mobility and overall quality of life. However, with the right strategies and lifestyle adjustments, individuals with arthritis can effectively manage their symptoms and maintain comfort and mobility…

Fungal nail infections, also known as onychomycosis, are a common concern that affects millions of people worldwide. These infections can cause discoloration, thickening, and crumbling of the nails, leading to discomfort and embarrassment for many individuals. While various treatment options are available to address fungal nails, obtaining a nail sample before initiating treatment is a…

As an avid runner, you understand the exhilarating feeling of pounding the pavement and pushing our limits mile after mile. However, with the joys of running come the risks of injury, and one of the most common afflictions that many runners face is plantar fasciitis. In this blog post, we’ll explore what plantar fasciitis is, how…

As a podiatrist, I’ve encountered a wide array of foot and nail conditions throughout my practice. While discoloration of the nails is a common concern, the reasons behind it can sometimes be unexpected and surprising. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the strange and lesser-known causes of nail discoloration and what they may…

As a podiatrist, one of the most common conditions I encounter in my practice is heel pain. Among the various causes of heel pain, two conditions often confused with each other are plantar fasciitis and plantar fascial tear. While both conditions affect the plantar fascia, they have distinct characteristics and require different approaches to treatment….

As a passionate runner, you know that finding the perfect pair of running shoes is just as important as logging those miles. To ensure that your investment lasts and continues to support you on your running journey, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of tips and best practices to help prolong the lifespan of your beloved…

As a podiatrist, I understand the frustration and discomfort that Achilles tendonitis can bring into your life. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or someone who enjoys a brisk walk, the pain and stiffness in the back of your heel and ankle can be debilitating. Fortunately, there are several home exercises and stretches you can incorporate…

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a widespread condition, affecting millions worldwide women more than men. While its symptoms often manifest as fatigue, weakness, and pale skin, one lesser-known indicator of this condition can be found right at your feet – in your toenails. We delve into the subtle but significant signs that your toenails might be…

As a podiatrist, I’ve seen firsthand the toll that hiking can take on feet when not properly cared for. Whether you’re a seasoned trailblazer or a novice explorer, keeping your feet healthy is essential for an enjoyable hiking experience. Here are some of my expert tips to help you prevent common foot problems and maintain…

Heel pain is a common complaint that can significantly impact mobility and quality of life. From plantar fasciitis to Achilles tendonitis, various conditions can cause discomfort in the heel area. As a podiatrist, I use Kinesio tape daily to alleviate heel pain and improve my patients’ overall foot health. In this blog post, I’ll discuss…