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.

Read more about How to Prevent Running Injuries
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.

Read more about Shockwave Therapy

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.

Read more about Arthritic Foot Care
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.

Read more about Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

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.

Read more on Rheumatoid Arthritis

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.

Read more about Flat Feet

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.

childrens feet14Rosie Pope, star of Pregnant in Heels, is partnering with Stride Rite to advocate that children need good shoes on their feet as they grow. As a mother of four kids Pope states, “They need shoes that are good for their feet and make playing easy and safe regardless of what else is going on that day.” Pope noted that she loved the Stride Rite team because they consist of real parents that understand the problems little feet may face on a daily basis. “Shoes have to feel good, be good for their feet, and my kids have to love them, and I have to like them too. So, I appreciate that real moms and dads are behind these shoes,” she added.

Having proper shoes for children is essential in allowing them to grow properly and keeping them disease free. If you have any concerns contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet in 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 from birth to school-age.

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’. Be sure the child wears comfortable and protective shoes so that they can grow into their feet properly.

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 of 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

Children of all ages are constantly developing and growing, and as a parent you want to make sure that nothing is hindering their maturation.

If you have any concerns feel free contact our office located in Moriches, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about keeping children’s feet healthy.

fungal toenail2Kim Fatica of Backpacker’s Blaze has documented the hiking and backpacking trips of his relatives to document the importance of each activities shoe type to avoid blisters on the feet. Recently Fatica’s nephew, Matt, went on backpacking through the Appalachian trail wearing ill-fitting hiking boots and suffered severe blisters on the soles of his feet. Hiking boots are made for a lighter trail with little to no extra gear while backpacking boots are made with thicker reinforcements for a tougher journey. In both cases, having a shoe that is a size or so bigger will allow for room in the shoe when the foot expands and allows for better air circulation.

Hiking and backing are popular activities especially in the summer months and wearing the appropriate shoe for each activity is best to avoid blisters on the feet. If you have any concerns about your foot and ankle needs contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle 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 attention from a doctor.

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

Read more about blisters on the feet.

athletes foot7Ethan Finlay of the Columbus Crew SC has broken his toe during a game against the Chicago Fire. Gregg Berhalter, team manager, knew there was a problem during the game when a Chicago defender slid into Finlay, earning a yellow card for the defender. Finlay attempted to play after the injury, but ended up limping of the field and getting replaced by another team member. Berhalter plans to hold Finlay out of the next game with limited training, but he is not expected to miss more than just a couple of games.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

·         throbbing pain

·         swelling

·         bruising on the skin and toenail

·         the inability to move the toe

·         toe appears crooked or disfigured

·         tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

Read more about a broken toe.

Page 39 of 40

Connect With Us

abpm acfas abfa