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Will Chambers Suffered Broken Foot and Required Surgery
Will Chambers of Melbourne Storm suffered a foot fracture injury in early April in the match against the Canterbury Bulldogs, which required him to have surgery. His post-surgery recovery time was estimated to be about 3 months at the time. His injury was initially thought to not be serious, until his foot swelled up overnight. “We are extremely disappointed to lose Will, he’s an important part of our team,” said Storm football director Frank Ponissi.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. To learn more, see one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your heel pain symptoms in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
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 (foot)
- 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 our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Treating Your Blisters
Not only can blisters be unsightly, but they can become irritating and detrimental to our everyday activities. There are many different ways to prevent blisters, and they involve buying properly-fitting shoes, choosing breathable material such as leather for footwear, and finding the proper support for your feet. Avoid picking at your blisters until they’re ready to be drained. Sterilize a needle and use an antibacterial treatment such as Neosporin immediately following the draining.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, see one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your heel pain symptoms in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.
What are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
How do Blisters Form?
Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.
Prevention & Treatment
It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Strained Plantar Fascia may cause Heel Pain
If you suffer from chronic heel and foot pain, it may be because your plantar fascia ligament is irritated or strained. Heel and foot pain can also be caused by plantar fasciitis, the number one leading cause, but it can also result from strenuous exercise on the feet. Stretch and relax your foot muscles by rolling the bottom of your feet on something round. Also make sure to have footwear that has proper support for your feet.
Anyone can wind up suffering from heel pain. For more information, see one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your heel pain symptoms in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
Causes of Heel Pain
● Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
● Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
● Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes
- Wearing non-supportive shoes
- Weight change
- Excessive running
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a thing of the past.
With the advancements in technology and greater knowledge of how muscles and joints work, physical therapists can turn things around dramatically.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Preventing and Treating Toenail Fungus
Nail fungus make up about “50% of all nail disorders,” according to the American Academy of Dermatology. When preventing nail fungus, wash and dry your hands and feet thoroughly and with soap. Nail fungus thrives in wet places, can hide beneath your nail polish, and is contagious. If you find that your nails are crumbling, thickening, becoming yellowish, or peeling, you may have nail fungus. Treatment for nail fungus may take up to several months, so make sure to treat it right away.
While toenail fungus is troublesome to eradicate, doing so is not impossible. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a problem which affects many people and is hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating toenail fungus.
Antibiotics & Treatments
Lamisil – is the most commonly effective treatment for toenail fungus. It is available as an antibiotic Terbinafine tablet and cream. Terbinafine is a chemical component which kills fungal growth on the body. Applying regular doses will gradually kill the fungal growth. It is important to keep the area clean and air free.
Talcum powder – applying powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well
Alternative Treatments
There are always surgical procedures that are available for toenail fungus. Some people would like immediate quick removal of toenail fungus. Surgeons will be able to cut through and remove the growth using laser surgery. It is important not to try and remove it yourself. Once removed, your old shoes will need to be replaced to avoid reinfection.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Managing Your Morton’s Neuroma
If you notice “a tingling or numbness under the ball of your foot,” you may have Morton’s neuroma. Although the condition is not serious, Morton’s neuroma is characterized by “a benign accumulation of fibrous tissue” around your medial plantar nerve. Simply put, the condition affects the area between your foot’s metatarsal bones, resulting in pain and irritation. Common solutions for Morton’s neuroma include changing your footwear, over-the-counter medicines and cortisone injections for treating the pain, custom pad supports or orthotics, and the last option of surgery.
Morton’s Neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma consult with one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.
What Increases the Chances of having Morton’s Neuroma?
- -Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
- -Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
- -Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities
Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
New Smart Shoes Offer Various Benefits for the Feet
Thanks to Samsung, you may be finding a new pair of smart shoes on the shelves. Called the IoFit Smart Balance, these shoes have been installed with pressure sensors, Bluetooth transmitters, and batteries. The smart shoes are said to not only be convenient like a smartphone, but they can also measure your foot performance in sports such as golfing and compare it in real time to professional sports personalities. The shoes “can determine your left-right and front-back balance, and ground contact force” and record and transfer the data.
The right running shoe is essentially different for every person. If you have any concerns consult with one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
Choosing the Right Running Shoes for Your Foot Type
Running is a physical activity although fun, can put a lot of stress on the joints, bones and ligaments of the body. Injury and stress on the foot can be an important factor on which kind of shoe you’re wearing. Running shoes should be worn based on your foot type. It is important to find out what fits you based on cushioning, stability and motion.
Determining your type
Speak with a shoe specialist or retail professional to see what your foot type is. They will be able to identify and measure your arch type, stride and gait.
Running Mechanics
When you are running or walking in your shoes, every step determines how your foot is landing. Pronation is the natural rolling of your ankle from outside to inside during foot strike.
Pronation is a correct form of walking or running. It helps absorb shock and store energy from your lower extremities. Neutral runners who pronate correctly do not need specific shoes, since they have stability and control.
Over-pronators
Those who run with excessive ankle rolling. Over-pronators tend to have ankles that angle inward, flat feet, and or bowed legs. This can cause a series of injuries: of the knees, ankles and Achilles tendons.
Under-pronation
Under-pronation is less common than over-pronation. This usually happens to those who have inflexible feet and high arches. Even though there is less rotational stress on the ankles and knees, it prevents any kind of shock absorptions. Under-pronation needs shoes with increase in cushion and flexibility.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Sneaker Designer Develops Custom Line of High Heels that Offer Comfort
Sneaker designer Christopher Dixon has developed his own line of high-end high heels that offer comfort for the feet. When Dixon first visited his best friend’s cousin’s closet, full of high heel shoes, he realized how uncomfortable and painful wearing high heels must be for women. His collection, in which shoes feature two heels instead of one, was created with stability and comfort in mind. Dixon explains “that [the] extra point of contact between ankle and cement actually makes the shoes easier to walk in by improving weight distribution and taking some of the pressure off the arch of the foot.”
High heels have a history for causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, consult with one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because their style and societal appeal. Despite this, they can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
What parts 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. Also, 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 our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
3 Percent of the Population Suffers from Hyperhidrosis
While sweating is a natural condition, nearly three percent of the population suffers from excessive sweating or hyperhidrosis. This condition occurs when the glands produce more sweat than is necessary to keep the body cool. While a doctor should be seen to assess the severity and treatment of the condition, there are antiperspirants that can be used to calm the disease. Many also seek Botox treatment to block the chemicals that cause the glands to release excessive sweat.
If you have any concerns, consult with one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.
Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.
In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.
A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Kaley Cuoco Takes Care of Her Feet
Kaley Cuoco of the Big Bang Theory has been seen on numerous red carpets, quickly changing from high heels to comfortable sneakers. At the People's Choice Awards and SAG awards, Cuoco was not shy about taking care of her feet with a change to stylish Dior sneakers. Make sure to give your feet a rest from wearing high heels as they put uneven pressure on your feet and back. High heels can be damaging to your feet if worn for long periods.
Every day foot care is very important, especially for those that are lacking the proper foot care resources. For more information about everyday foot care, consult with one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
Every Day Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. After all, without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks. It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before, for example.
For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops.
Also, wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Finding the Right School Shoes for Your Kids
For children who are going back to school, make sure that they have comfortable shoes, especially if they are young and growing. When shopping for your child’s shoes, have the lengths and widths of their feet measured. Opt for shoes that have extra toe room for your children to grow into. Children’s shoes should also support the heel and should not be heavy, curved, and are light in weight. Also look for shoes that have good grip on the bottom soles so as to prevent slipping and falling.
Finding a proper fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Proper Shoe Fitting
A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:
- Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
- Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
- Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
- Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity
Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, proper fitting shoes is vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
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Johnathan Gray on Recovery from Torn Achilles Tendon
Texas Longhorns Johnathan Gray sustained a torn Achilles tendon while preparing for the 2016 NFL Draft. Gray had torn his Achilles tendon before in 2013, but had to have surgery and rehabilitation. The injury affected Gray’s play for some months during the 2014 season, but he was able to make a 40-yard touchdown run against West Virginia. Gray’s injury may mark the potential end of his shot into an NFL career.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel bone of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can cause severe difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What are the symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
- Inflammation
- Dull to Severe Pain
- Increased blood flow to the tendon
- Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
- Snapping sensation
- Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
- Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
If unable to immediately see your podiatrist, remember to Rest, Ice, Compress, and Elevate until then.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Cebu City Marathon Runners run Barefoot
Runners participating in a competition in the Cebu City Marathon (CCM) found themselves running the whole 42-kilometer route without any footwear, completely barefoot. One of the runners, Edwin Colina, says, “One of the reasons why we run barefoot is because we want something that is very challenging.” He says his reason for running barefoot is in celebration of Cebu’s patron saint, Sr. Santo Niño. The group of three barefoot runners was able to finish the marathon in 5 hours and 41 minutes.
Barefoot running has its own share of benefits and disadvantages. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Barefoot Running
The Impact of Barefoot Running
-Running without shoes changes the motion of your running, as most running is done by landing on the heel of the feet.
-Running barefoot requires a different way of running; the landing is done on the front part of the feet.
The Advantages of Barefoot Running
-When running and landing on the front feet, the impact on the feet and ankle is reduced, this can reduce stress injuries.
-It strengthens muscles in the feet and ankles and the lower legs.
-Balance of the body is improved and there is a greater sensory input from the feet to the rest of the body.
The Drawbacks of Barefoot Running
-No protection while running, makes it likely that runners will land on sharp objects and scrapes, bruises and cuts on the feet will result.
-Blisters may form.
-Possibility of plantar fascia problems.
-Risk of getting Achilles tendonitis.
So what can runners do to make barefoot running safe? It’s best to make a slow transition from running shoes to barefoot running. Once the feet begin to adjust, try walking, then jogging and gradually increasing the distance. Minimalist running shoes may also be an option.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Stem Cell Treatment Being Developed to Fight RA
New research indicates that stem cell technology can help fight against autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. Stem cell research has long been regarded as an area of debate, as stem cells could only be acquired through embryo cells. Recent medical advancements have allowed doctors and scientists to move forward into stem cell research, which offers many promises of medical treatment.
Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, consult with one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.
Symptoms
- Swelling & pain in the feet
- Stiffness in the feet
- Pain on the ball or sole of feet
- Joint shift and deformation
Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Drew Brees Suffers from Fascia Tear
Quarterback, Drew Brees, for the New Orleans Saints has been suffering from a torn plantar fascia. While Brees has been hoping to participate in the final two games of the season, it does not appear the given circumstances are in his favor as the injury is having a negative effect on his planting foot. The veteran player was injured during a game against the Detroit Lions, where he had to have his foot taped. Brees has been seeing the same physician that is looking after Peyton Manning’s plantar fascia problems.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, visit one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can treat your heel pain as well as any other foot or ankle condition.
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 contact our offices in Franklin Square and Bethpage, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
