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Understanding Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis, the inflammation of the tissue on the bottom of your foot, causes heel pain and discomfort and often worsens with physical activity. Risk factors include activities stressing your heel, being overweight, pregnant, or having high arches. Beyond heel pain, symptoms of plantar fasciitis include aching, burning, or swelling. This discomfort is typically most pronounced in the morning or after prolonged sitting, standing, or activity. Causes vary from playing sports to being on your feet a lot, poor arch support, or tight calf muscles. Treatment involves rest, wearing supportive footwear, using orthotics, and stretching the affected area. In severe cases, steroid injections or surgery might be considered. Prevention includes maintaining a healthy weight, wearing supportive shoes, warming up before exercise, and allowing recovery between physical activities. If you have heel pain and suspect you might have plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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 Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Excessive running
- Non-supportive shoes
- Overpronation
- Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
- Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
- Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
- Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
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.
Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?
Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.
Dealing With High Arches in the Feet
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.
Four Stages of Gout
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.
Senior Foot Care
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 and Wound Care
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.
Causes of Pain on the Outside of the Foot
Pain felt on the outside of the foot is termed lateral pain, and there are many causes. The most common cause of lateral foot pain is a sprained ankle, which is responsible for about 85 percent of lateral foot injuries. When the anterior talofibular, or ATFL, ligament is overstretched, it can be torn or, in severe cases, ruptured. This injury causes pain, swelling, bruising, and instability. If an ankle sprain is not fully healed and rehabbed, it can become a chronic condition. Overuse by runners is another cause of pain on the outside of the foot. It can result in hairline fractures in the bones of the feet, including the fifth metatarsal. Because continuing the activity can lead to breaking the bone, resting the foot for about six weeks is suggested. A third cause of pain on the outside of the foot is termed peroneal tendinosis. Repetitive use of the ankle and improper footwear are the main causes of irritation to this tendon. Resting the leg can help it to heal, and in some cases, surgery is a treatment option. For help with pain on the outside of the foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
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.
Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?
If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!
Facts About Stress Fractures
Stress fractures are considered to be overuse injuries that are common among runners, as well as other athletes. Football players, basketball players, and dancers are at risk for stress fractures over time. A stress fracture is a hairline crack in the bone as a result of repetitive pounding of the feet. People with poor nutritional habits and who smoke or drink excess alcohol are also susceptible to incurring stress fractures. The most common causes of these painful stress fractures are repetitive force, overtraining, and running on hard surfaces. A stress fracture often develops as the result of a sudden change in physical activity, such as increasing running speed too quickly or starting to participate in a sport after being sedentary for a long time. Furthermore, a vitamin D deficiency can cause the bones to weaken, possibly making them more vulnerable to this type of injury. Wearing shoes that do not fit well or provide inadequate support is another common cause of stress fractures. If you believe you have developed stress fractures in the feet or ankles, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a full examination and correct treatment options.
Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use. The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.
What Are Stress Fractures?
Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:
- Runners
- People affected with Osteoporosis
- Tennis or basketball players
- Gymnasts
- High impact workouts
Symptoms
Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate 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 and ankle needs.
Symptoms of a Broken Foot
There are 26 bones in each foot that can easily be injured from falls, sports injuries, or repetitive pressure or force. A broken foot, or foot fracture, is usually from a direct injury to the foot and can be caused by high-impact activities, like running or jumping, auto accidents, falls, repetitive stress or overuse, or straightforward trauma. Things that might contribute to one sustaining a foot fracture include wearing shoes that do not properly support the feet, a Vitamin D deficiency, or having structural foot problems. Symptoms of a broken foot include pain, difficulty bearing weight, swelling, bruising, altered walking, and immobility of the toes, foot, and ankle. It is highly suggested that anyone who suspects they have broken their foot see a podiatrist as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and a treatment plan.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, 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.
Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.
Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:
- Bruising
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Blue in color
- Numbness
- Cold
- Misshapen
- Cuts
- Deformities
Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.
Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.
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...
Do High Heels Cause Bunions?
Wearing high heels can enhance the look of your legs and ankles, but may not be helping the health of your feet. However, though experts agree that while most bunions form because of a genetic disposition to this deformity, wearing high heels can make the problem worse if you are already susceptible. Also, it is thought that having a bunion is more of a matter of your gait, or how you walk, than the type of shoes you wear. But because wearing high heels forces the weight of the body toward the ball of the foot, they may add to the likelihood of a bunion formation. A bunion is a deformity that pushes the bone outward at the base of the big toe joint causing a lump to develop on the side of the foot. The other toes react by moving in the opposite direction. High heels, which often have a small and pointed toe box, essentially encourage this movement. If you often wear high heels and notice a bunion forming, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer treatment options.
High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or 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.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal. Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?
- Ankle Joints
- Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
- Balls of the Feet
- Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
- Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain. The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.
What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?
- Corns
- Calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Morton’s Neuroma
- Plantar Fasciitis
How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?
If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads 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.
Various Types of Orthotics
Many people choose to wear orthotics that can help to protect and realign the structure of the feet. Having plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and heel spurs are common conditions that may be helped by wearing custom-made orthotics. There are various types of insoles, consisting of every day and running. Insoles that are worn daily may last up to six months, and this can depend on how many hours they are worn. People who are athletes may be interested in learning about running insoles, which may last between three and four months. Patients who stand on their feet during the workday may benefit from wearing insoles in their work boots, and this can be successful in providing the necessary support while working. If you would like additional information about the types of orthotics that can be purchased, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the type of orthotics that are best for you.
If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, 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 Are Orthotics?
Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.
Over-the-Counter Inserts
Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.
Prescription Orthotics
If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.
If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.
If you have any questions please 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.
Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?
Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.
A Puncture Wound on the Foot
A puncture wound can be a small hole in the foot that can be caused by stepping on a sharp, pointed object. It often produces discomfort, and the foot can also become bruised and swollen. Additionally, some patients have difficulty moving the affected area, and it is beneficial to seek medical attention. An animal bite also may cause a puncture wound, and an X-ray may be taken that can determine the depth of the wound. It is important that the wound is properly cleaned, and this can begin with removing existing dirt and debris. This can be followed by applying medicine to the wound, which may help to prevent a bacterial infection. Symptoms may be managed by frequently elevating the foot and keeping it above heart level. This is often effective in reducing swelling and pain that may be present. If you have additional questions about how to perform proper wound care for the foot, it is suggested that you ask a podiatrist who can help you with useful information.
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.
