Dealing with high foot arches, medically known as cavus foot or pes cavus, can present challenges and discomfort. Unlike flat feet, where the arch is too low, a cavus foot has a higher-than-normal arch. This can result in foot pain or more severe problems. The causes of cavus foot are diverse, including a genetic predisposition as well as biomechanical or neurological factors. Conditions like cerebral palsy, spina bifida, or stroke may contribute to its development, necessitating a professional diagnosis to determine the root cause. Symptoms include a conspicuous high arch while standing, inward heel tilting, and weight distribution that favors the ball of the foot and heel. Toe clenching, calluses, and pain in the top and middle foot areas during walking or standing are also common. Shoe fitting challenges and frequent ankle sprains due to imbalance also characterize high arches. Surgery is reserved for extreme cases when non-surgical remedies, such as custom orthotics, prove ineffective. If you believe that you have high foot arches that are causing problems, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment options.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Bronx, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a type of arthritis that often affects the joints of the big toe, and is caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals. There are four distinct stages of gout. The first stage, known as asymptomatic hyperuricemia, is characterized by high levels of uric acid in the blood without any noticeable symptoms. The second stage is acute gout that occurs when uric acid forms crystals which begin to deposit in the joints. This can lead to sudden and severe pain, swelling, and redness. If left untreated acute gout can progress to the third stage, known as intercritical gout, or the interval between gout attacks. During this phase, patients can experience periods of remission where symptoms subside, but it is essential to maintain proper management and lifestyle changes to prevent future flare ups. The final stage is chronic tophaceous gout, which occurs after repeated gout attacks. In this stage, large uric acid crystal deposits called tophi, can develop beneath the skin surrounding the joints and in other tissues. Tophi can lead to joint damage and deformities. Early detection and appropriate management are key to preventing the progression of gout. If you believe you have gout, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment options. 

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Bronx, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Proper foot care is crucial for the overall health and mobility of seniors, as certain podiatric issues can indicate underlying health conditions. While family caregivers often take on the responsibility of foot care, it can be challenging for seniors with limited mobility to receive the care they need. Although a regular pedicure at a salon may seem like a solution and can offer aesthetic benefits, it may not be sufficient for most seniors' foot health. Those with conditions such as arthritis, neuropathy, or poor circulation that affect their feet would be best served by a podiatrist. Podiatrists offer comprehensive foot care, including checking for a pedal pulse and skin integrity and addressing specific podiatric issues. Medicare may even cover podiatrist visits, making it an accessible option for many seniors. If you are a senior with foot problems or caring for one, it is strongly suggested that you include a podiatrist on your healthcare team for regular examinations and treatment for anything that is brewing. Make an appointment with a podiatrist today. 

If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Bronx, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects how our bodies use food for energy, leading to high blood sugar levels. People with diabetes are more prone to getting wounds on their feet due to poor blood circulation and nerve problems, which can make it hard to feel pain. Open wounds on the feet can easily get infected, so it is essential for diabetics to take good care of their feet. This includes wearing well-fitting and cushioned shoes and regularly checking their feet for any issues. If they notice any wounds, especially if they are oozing pus, they should see a podiatrist immediately. Podiatrists may give antibiotics to prevent infections and clean the wound using special gauze with a saline solution. Sometimes, they might need to place a small tube in the wound called a drain to help with healing and reduce infection risks. After treating the wound, it will be covered with a dressing for protection. If you have diabetes, it is highly suggested to see a podiatrist regularly. This medical professional can help you take care of your feet properly.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Bronx, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.