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Are Shoes Necessary for Proper Foot Development in Babies?
Babies' feet will grow and develop normally regardless of whether shoes are worn. It is beneficial to have your child walk barefoot while inside as this can help to strengthen the overall foot. The toes grip the floor to maintain balance, and this may help to accelerate the walking process. Warmer weather may encourage you to allow your child to walk outside without shoes. This may provide the opportunity of feeling the sand or grass on the feet. Many parents choose to have their children wear non-slip socks in the house when they have tile or wood floors, and this can be helpful in preventing unnecessary falling. When the weather turns chilly, it is important that the first pair of shoes have a sturdy but flexible sole, and the foot can be properly supported with traditional laces or velcro straps. If you would like additional information about what type of first shoes to buy for your baby, please confer with a podiatrist.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
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.
Several Forms of Ankle Pain
Ankle pain can be sharp or dull depending on the type of injury that has occurred. While some patients have pain from ankle sprains or strains, ankle pain can come from arthritis as well. An Achilles tendon injury can cause severe ankle pain and can happen from an injury that overstretches this strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. Symptoms of a fractured ankle can include swelling surrounding the ankle, and it is often difficult to walk. Soft tissue damage can come from an ankle sprain or strain and can cause significant pain. Additionally, the medical condition that is known as gout can cause ankle pain, and it is necessary to have immediate treatment. If you have ankle pain for any reason, please consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible so the correct treatment can begin.
Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, 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.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
- Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
- Ankle sprains
- Broken ankles
- Achilles tendinitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
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.
It's Time for Beautiful Feet
You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.
Causes of Foot Pain
Pain can be felt in the feet for a multitude of reasons, including aging, prolonged standing, walking, being overweight, structural problems with feet, foot injuries, poor fitting foot coverings, or a physical condition, such as arthritis or gout. Painful foot conditions can arise out of the aforementioned risk factors, like bunions, calluses, corns, hammertoes, Morton’s neuroma, plantar fasciitis, or heel spurs. If you are experiencing pain in your feet and you cannot easily figure out what it is from or what to do about it, consider consulting with a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, 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.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Bunions
- Hammertoes
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Bone Spurs
- Corns
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Ingrown Toenails
- Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
- Flat Feet
- Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
- And more
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
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.
Two Types of Shockwave Therapy
Patients who experience chronic foot pain may benefit from a treatment known as shockwave therapy. Research has shown it may be a helpful remedy for people who have plantar fasciitis. There are two types of this form of therapy, referred to as high and low-energy shock wave treatments. The latter is not painful to administer and may be given in a series of sessions. High-energy treatments are given in one visit and may cause pain. It can be helpful to have a regional block or general anesthesia given before this is used. The purpose of using shockwave treatments is to cause a healing response. This may help deliver nutrients to the affected area, in addition to causing blood vessel formation. Please consult with a podiatrist if you are interested in learning about shockwave therapy, and if it is an appropriate treatment option for you.
Shockwave therapy is a treatment commonly used to treat various injuries and conditions, particularly plantar fasciitis in the feet. To learn more, consult with 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.
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.
Who Benefits from Shockwave?
Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.
Fast and Easy
The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, addressing the source of the problem and allowing treatment to last for a long time.
Treatment & Recovery Time
Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia. This treatment is a better option to surgery, since it is proven safe.
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.
What Is a Foot and Ankle Surgeon?
Like a brain surgeon is a specialist in the field of medicine, a foot and ankle surgeon is a specialist in the field of podiatry. They have more education and training in the field of foot and ankle care than other healthcare providers. After graduation from college, they continue their education for four more years at an accredited podiatric medical school, graduating with a degree as Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM). After that, similar to medical doctors, DPMs enter a 3-year residency in podiatric medicine and surgery to train in general medicine, general surgery and surgical specialties. They also must complete a large number of diverse foot and ankle surgeries before they can be certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery. A Doctor of Podiatric Medicine is well-versed in detecting diseases (like diabetes, arthritis, and cardiovascular disease) that commonly affect the foot and ankle health of their patients, as well as dealing with foot and ankle ailments, injuries and conditions more common to the general public.
If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to 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.
What Is a Podiatrist?
Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.
Podiatric Treatment
A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:
- Physical therapy
- Drugs
- Orthotic inserts or soles
- Surgery on lower extremity fractures
A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.
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.
How to Best Care For Elderly Feet
Since it's said that 75% of seniors experience foot problems as they age, it stands to reason that foot care is an important part of their overall health care. If seniors maintain the health of their feet, they will be able to stay active longer, keep better balance and prevent falls (a key reason for injury and hospitalization in elderly years), and remain aware of signs that other health issues might be present (such as diabetes, arthritis and other serious conditions). The elderly should check their feet each day to make sure there is nothing visible that appears unusual (like blisters, swelling, or infections), wash and dry feet daily, trim toenails regularly, tend to any corn or callus, moisturize the tops and bottoms of feet if the skin is dry or cracked, wear well-fitting shoes and socks, and make sure socks are clean and do not restrict circulation or irritate the feet in any way. Regular exercise, eating healthy, and stopping smoking may also contribute to foot health. If a senior is unable to tend to their feet by themselves, it is advisable to set up routine visits with a podiatrist to maintain proper foot care and diagnose and treat any problems as they arise.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, 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.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
- Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
- Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
- Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
- Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
- Shoes that don’t fit properly
- Pressure sores
- Loss of circulation in legs & feet
- Edema & swelling of feet and ankles
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
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.
Heel Pain Can Be Treated!
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
Feet are Affected with Diabetes
People who are diabetic are often concerned about the health of their feet. Elevated blood sugar levels in diabetic patients may lead to possible nerve damage, foot ulcers, and foot deformities. It is important for patients to examine their feet daily, and notice any cuts, bruises, or broken skin. Additionally, it is beneficial to take extra time and care while trimming the toenails, and it helps to wear shoes and socks that fit correctly. Research has indicated that diabetic patients who refrain from walking barefoot can have fewer foot injuries. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you be under the care of a podiatrist who can correctly monitor this condition.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other 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.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
- Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
- Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
- Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
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.
Dealing With an Athlete’s Foot Infection
If your toes start to itch and tiny blisters begin to form between them, you probably have come in contact with tinea fungus, more commonly known as athlete’s foot. It thrives in warm, moist and airless conditions, such as those found in locker rooms, public showers and swimming pools. It is a good idea to avoid sharing towels, wear foot coverings in places where the fungus is likely to grow, keep from scratching the infected area, and wear absorbent socks. Although this fungus can spread easily to other parts of your body as well as to other people, it is not serious in and of itself. Many topical antifungal creams and sprays are available to treat athlete’s foot. However, if you start to feel pain, or if your foot becomes hot and red, it could be an indication of a more serious problem. Similarly, if you are diabetic or suffer from a weakened immune system, it is probably wise to consult a podiatrist to see if other treatment options are available to you.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
- Hydrate your feet by using lotion
- Exfoliate
- Buff off nails
- Use of anti-fungal products
- Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.
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.
More...
Bunions and Bunionettes
Bunions are an acquired foot deformity where a misalignment in the bones of the big toe causes a protrusion to form on the outside of the foot at the toe’s joint. This forces the toe to angle toward the other toes rather than pointing straight ahead. Bunionettes, also known as tailor bunions, form on the outside of the pinky toe. Both bunions and bunionettes can cause pain, swelling, and soreness. Bunions that go untreated may lead to limited range of movement and will not get better on their own. Wearing proper footwear with lower heels, a rounded toe box and plenty of room for the toes can help you avoid getting a bunion or bunionette, although the shape of your feet, heredity, and certain medical conditions can also be contributing factors. If you have a bunion or bunionette, it's a good idea to seek the professional care of a podiatrist for treatment options.
If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Bunion?
A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.
Why Do Bunions Form?
Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions
How Are Bunions Diagnosed?
Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.
How Are Bunions Treated?
- Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
- Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
- Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
- Orthotics or foot inserts
- Surgery
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.
Can Exercise Strengthen My Feet?
Exercise keeps our bodies strong! Given that our feet are an integral part of everyday life and getting us where we need to be, it stands to reason that exercising our feet is necessary to keep them strong and healthy. After all, they are relatively small appendages to carry our weight. In addition to improving your overall health, exercising your feet on a regular basis can reduce the risk of injury. When problems arise in your feet causing pain or gait instability, various exercises can be done to improve the issue. A podiatrist can examine your feet, diagnose any current or emerging problems, and suggest exercises to help.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. 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.
Exercise for Your Feet
Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.
Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctors to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual.
Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.
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.
Your Ankle Pain May Be Caused by a Ganglion Cyst
A ganglion cyst is a benign, fluid-filled mass that develops near a joint capsule or the thin layer of tissue surrounding a tendon. When ganglion cysts develop in the feet, they can occur in the ankle or top of the foot. Ganglion cysts usually present as a visible lump on the outside of the skin, and can cause a dull ache or pain—especially if the cyst is pressing on a joint or tendon, or is being irritated by footwear. In some cases, a ganglion cyst may be caused by some sort of trauma, however the exact cause of these bothersome growths is not always known. Because ganglion cysts sometimes disappear on their own, your podiatrist may determine that monitoring the cyst for a period of time may be the best initial approach. However, if the pain and discomfort are severe, or you have had the cyst for a while, your podiatrist may suggest other treatments such as modifications to footwear, aspirating the cyst and injecting it with steroids, or even surgery if more conservative treatment options don't provide relief or the cyst returns.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, 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.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
- Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
- Ankle sprains
- Broken ankles
- Achilles tendinitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- Bursitis
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
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.
Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?
Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
