Tuesday, 01 August 2017 00:00

The Effects of Polyneuropathy

Polyneuropathy is a disease that affects the peripheral nerves of the body, and it is most commonly caused by diabetes. Diabetes causes blood sugar levels to become elevated, which can lead to a decrease in the amount of blood flow that gets to the nerves. As a result, the nerves’ ability to process sensation becomes disrupted. Other less common causes of polyneuropathy include vitamin B12 deficiency, low thyroid levels, HIV, Lyme disease, and exposure to certain medications. Another less common cause for the disease may be a genetic disorder; however, these are often only diagnosed as a cause after all other possible options have been ruled out.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Moriches and Shirley, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Women’s feet have increased two sizes since the 1970s, and yet their shoe sizes haven’t. Women who have larger feet are, unfortunately, left out and have few options. Some girls have resorted to wearing boys’ shoes, which are not properly fitted for women; this can lead to an increase risk of falling and other issues. Several experts blame this on overseas production and it not being cost-effective to make bigger shoes. Bigger shoes cost more to make; however, they are accounting for larger percentages in the footwear market. A few experts recommend buying from German companies, who have kept up with foot size increases. It is important that not only women, but also men, wear properly fitted shoes. Shoes that are too small can lead to issues like plantar fasciitis, corns, hammertoes, and a number of ailments that cause foot pain.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

  • When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
  • Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
  • Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
  • Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
  • If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Moriches and Shirley, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Tuesday, 22 August 2017 00:00

Common Foot Injuries

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common foot conditions that people deal with. It often occurs as a result of intense training or overuse, but you can also develop it from wearing improper footwear. Another common foot problem is Achilles tendonitis, which is the result of inflammation in the Achilles tendon. Those with Achilles tendonitis can experience a lot of pain due to swelling in the tissue. It is often caused by tight calf muscles, which put strain on the Achilles tendon. In order to treat it you should get a lot of rest, apply ice to the area, and stretch.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday 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. 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 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. 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 Moriches and Shirley, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Monday, 14 August 2017 00:00

How to Avoid Common Running Injuries

Summer is the most popular time of the year to go outside and become more active. While exercising is beneficial in order to get your body in shape, you are also becoming more susceptible to running injuries. Ankle sprains, stress fractures, and heel pain can all be preventable injuries if you take precautions before jumping into your workout routine. Unsurprisingly, one of the most common sources of running injuries happens to be improper footwear. You should always make sure that the shoes you buy provide enough support for your feet, and are made from a breathable material. Buying shoes that are made for the type of activity you will be performing can also help in avoiding injury. For example, you should buy running shoes if you want to go for a run, and walking shoes if you plan on walking.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Moriches and Shirley, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Monday, 05 October 2015 04:20

Pay Attention to Foot Pain

hammertoe4Dominque Candelaria suffers from foot pain every morning when she gets out of bed. She claims her pains are consistent to walking on hot coals. Since she has been suffering from this pain for the last two years, she recommends that you pay attention to your feet regularly to find foot problems early. Candelaria’s foot pain was diagnosed with plantar fasciitis, the inflammation of tissue on the bottom of the foot that causes heel pain. The condition is treated with shockwave therapy by breaking up the scar tissue. Other treatments such as physical therapy are also helpful in treating the condition.

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 of Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will provide you with quality foot and ankle information and treatment.

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, attacking the source of the problem so treatment lasts 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 our office located in Moriches, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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hammertoe4According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, one out of every three Americans suffers from arthritis pain many of those being over the age of 50. Recently many people have been receiving acupuncture as a form of treatment for the disease. Popular in Chinese medicine, acupuncture is used when the energy in the body is blocked. Many have found acupuncture to be beneficial especially since the treatment can be modified to be unique to the individual's needs.

The feet are often common sites for arthritis to occur in the body. If you are struggling with arthritis in your feet or ankles, call one of our podiatrists of Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors can examine your lower extremities to help alleviate your joint pain.

Arthritic Foot Care

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves inflammation of different joints in your body, such as in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. On top of this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

  • Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
  • Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
  • Massages can help to temporarily alleviate pain.
It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Moriches, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all of your foot ankle injuries.

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broken foot4American Ballet Theatre’s first African-American principal ballerina, Misty Copeland, is set to make her first Broadway Debut and discusses the obstacles she faced on her way to stardom. Copeland states, “They didn’t audition me for anything,” of her new role as Miss Turnstiles in “On the Town.” Known for being turned down within the ballet field for not being “thin enough” or fitting that “ballet image,” Misty recalls her accomplishments since then including starring in “Swan Lake” and “The Firebird” with six stress fractures in her ankle. “I think that’s what I’m here for,” she states after noting how hard she works and how much she wants to continue to diversify ballet.

Activities, where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot and Ankle Centers. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

The Stress Fractures occur on the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use. Then the feet and ankles 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. The stress on the feet causes cracks to form in the bones, thus called 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

- play tennis or basketball

- gymnastics

- 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 in high impact will aggravate pain.

For more information about Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle, follow the link below.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Moriches, NY. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

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toenail fungus7According to research conducted atJohns Hopkins University Arthritis Center, rheumatoid arthritis has been known to have negative effects on peripheral nerves causing sensations concerning temperature and pressure, especially in the lower extremities. This means that the nerves can become damaged leaving feelings of wearing socks even while barefoot. RA can also cause nerve entrapment, pinching nerves that are in narrow areas resulting in inflammation. The cervical spine is also at risk from attacks at the joints between the vertebrae that can cause pain throughout the body and lack of control through the lower extremities.

Rheumatoid Arthritis and joint pain can become very painful and debilitating if left untreated. For more information about Rheumatoid Arthritis and its symptoms, consult with one of our podiatrists of Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

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.

For more information about rheumatoid arthritis please follow the link below.

If you have any questions, please contact our office located in Moriches, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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childrens feet17According to a study published in the Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics, young boys who practice judo were found to have higher arches and better balance compared to boys who were not as active. Flat feet rates in young boys have been higher recently due to a lack of proper diet and exercise altering foot position and gait. Since Judo is practiced barefoot and on flat surfaces, it causes stimulation in the proper receptors on the bottom of the feet.

Typically flat feet in children will develop around age six. If you suspect that your child has the condition, speak to one of our podiatristsof The Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will answer any of your foot and ankle related questions and attend to all of your podiatric needs.

What are Flat Feet?

Flat feet are a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. Standing about 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arch never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – if you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms:

Pain around the heel or arch area

Trouble standing on the tip toe.

Swelling around the inside of the ankle.

Flat look to one or both feet.

Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment:

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Moriches, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and treatments for your foot and ankle needs.

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fungal toenail2Lifehacker reports that shoe shopping should be done in the evening to ensure the best fitting shoes for the feet. As the day passes, the feet swell in size. Shoe shopping later in the day or in the evening ensures that the feet are at their largest when trying on shoes. While this slight increase in size would normally not make a significant difference, those looking for something supportive such as running shoes or shoes that will be worn all day should consider these slight changes important.

Finding a proper fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. 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 come factors to consider when it comes to investing in properly 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, improperly 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, keeping properly fit 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 office located in Moriches, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies for your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about proper shoe fitting.

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