Monday, 12 August 2019 00:00

Injuries to the Achilles Tendon

The tendon that is located on the back of the leg is known as the Achilles tendon, and it is the largest tendon in the body. The purpose of this tendon is to connect the calf to the heel, and is considered to be stronger than it is flexible. If an injury should occur that affects this tendon, it may cause a tear or rupture, and can produce severe pain and discomfort. It may happen as a result of participating in sporting activities, wearing incorrect shoes for the chosen sport, or medical conditions which can include flat feet. The symptoms that are often associated with an Achilles tendon injury can include redness and swelling surrounding the affected area, and it may be difficult to stand on tiptoes or to point and flex your foot. Mild relief can be found when the activity that caused this ailment is stopped, and it may be beneficial to elevate the leg which can help to reduce existing swelling. If you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel 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 create immense 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 injuries 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
  • 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 you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Moriches and Shirley, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What are Achilles Tendon Injuries
Monday, 05 August 2019 00:00

Who is Likely to Get Toenail Fungus?

If your toenails start to become thick, warped, fragile or yellow-colored, you may have toenail fungus. Some people are more likely to get toenail fungus than others. For example, men have this ailment more than women do, and your likelihood increases as you age. Also, those with diabetes, athlete’s foot, and a weakened immune system could be at risk. Those who are smokers and have family members with fungal infections are known to have this condition more commonly, as well. Finally, be sure to watch for toenail fungus if you spend a lot of time in water, or if you have recently injured the area around your toe. Podiatrists can diagnose and treat toenail fungus. Common treatment options include creams, prescription pills or laser treatments. In order to prevent toenail fungus, keep your toes dry, clean and properly trimmed. If you believe you may have toenail fungus, contact a podiatrist as soon as possible.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot 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.

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

Read more about Treating Toenail Fungus
Monday, 29 July 2019 00:00

What is a Stress Fracture?

A stress fracture is considered to be an overuse injury of the bone. For people that are putting a lot of stress on their feet from standing on a daily basis, this can cause small cracks to form on the bone due to the amount of pressure being put on them. This will usually cause a stress fracture. They can occur in the feet on the metatarsal bones, the navicular bone and the calcaneus which is also known as the heel bone. Some causes are muscle weakness or fatigue, weak bones and improper muscle or bone alignment. Symptoms of a stress fracture include pain during exercise, pain while trying to sleep and swelling or tenderness at the site of injury. If you are dealing with persistent foot pain and it has the signs of a stress fracture, it is advised that you visit a podiatrist as soon as you can. 

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. 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 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 Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
Monday, 22 July 2019 00:00

Being Overweight Can Hurt Your Feet

Since your feet feel the pressure of most of your body weight, being overweight can cause a variety of foot problems. Extra weight tends to bring the knees together, putting stress on the insides of the feet and arches. There are also several specific conditions that are known to be affiliated with additional weight. Gout causes severe pain in the big toe. It begins with an accumulation of uric acid in the body, which is more common for overweight individuals. You are also more likely to develop diabetes, which reduces blood flow to the feet. When you accumulate too much plaque in the arteries, you could develop peripheral arterial disease, which reduces blood flow to the feet as well. Losing weight is a practical way to avoid foot and ankle complications. If you feel that your weight may be affecting your feet, it is recommended that you consult with a podiatrist.

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, 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.

Obesity and Your Feet

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

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 Obesity and the Feet

If you notice the skin on the outside of your big toe appears to be red and swollen, you may have what is referred to as an ingrown toenail. It happens as a result of the toenail growing into the skin, which is often a painful and uncomfortable condition. There are several reasons why ingrown toenails may develop. These can include wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in, improperly trimming the toenails, or from sustaining a foot injury. Diabetic patients may find it beneficial to have their toenails trimmed correctly, as this can help to prevent possible toenail infections from developing. Additionally, it is suggested that the feet are kept dry and clean, to diminish the chances of getting an ingrown toenail. The toe and the surrounding skin may feel better as they are soaked in warm water several times throughout the day. If you are afflicted with an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can diagnosis and treat this condition.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

  • Bacterial infections
  • Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
  • Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
  • Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
  • Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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 Ingrown Toenails
Sunday, 14 July 2019 00:00

It's Time for Beautiful Feet

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

Tuesday, 09 July 2019 00:00

What Are Plantar Warts?

Plantar warts are small growths that appear on the heels of the feet. Pressure may make the warts grow inward beneath a thick layer of skin called a callus. Plantar warts are caused by HPV. The HPV virus is able to enter the body through tiny cuts, breaks or other weak spots on the bottom of the feet. Some signs and symptoms of plantar warts include lesions on the bottom of the foot, callused skin where a wart has grown inward and pain or tenderness when walking or standing. Children and teenagers are considered to be the most at risk to get plantar warts.  Although plantar warts are not considered to be a health concern, you should still see a podiatrist in order to have the warts removed.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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 What Are Plantar Warts?

There are seven tarsal bones in the foot, and one of them is referred to as the cuboid bone. If the joints surrounding this bone should become inflamed as a result of an injury, cuboid syndrome may develop. Pain is typically felt on the outside of the foot, near the bottom of the fourth and fifth toes. Additionally, some patients may experience discomfort in the middle of the foot. Research has shown this ailment may be more common among athletes and dancers than of the rest of the population. Overusing the foot is also a common cause of cuboid syndrome. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this condition often include swelling, difficulty in walking, and limited range of motion. Mild relief may be found when the foot is elevated, and when the activity that caused this condition is temporarily eliminated. If you have cuboid syndrome, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can assist you with the best course of treatment.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with one of our podiatrists from Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

  • Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
  • Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
  • Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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.

 

Read more about All About Cuboid Syndrome

If you are experiencing pain between the third and fourth toes, you may have a condition that is referred to as Morton’s neuroma. It is defined as a portion of nerve tissue that forms in the foot and can cause pain and discomfort. The pain can also be felt in the ball of the foot and exercising the foot may bring mild relief. Additionally, many patients have found that changing their footwear may help to alleviate a portion of the pain. This condition may develop as a result of frequently wearing high heels or participating in certain sporting activities. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the affected nerve. If you have this type of pain, it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist who can recommend the treatment that is correct for you.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

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

Read more about Morton's Neuroma
Tuesday, 18 June 2019 00:00

Possible Causes of Hammertoe

The medical condition that is referred to as hammertoe is considered to be a deformity in the middle toes. It may develop as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or it can occur from genetic factors. When the toes become cramped in the shoe, the middle toe bends to resemble the shape of a hammer. It can overlap onto the toe next to it, and consistent friction can cause a callus to develop. Additionally, some patients may experience pain in the ball of the foot, which is a result of chronic stress the foot endures. Mild relief may be found when soft padding is inserted in the shoe. For severe cases of hammertoe, surgery could be a viable option to consider in order to permanently straighten the toes.  If you notice you are developing hammertoe, it is advised to seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can provide you with the treatment that is best for you.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

  • Pain in the affected toes
  • Development of corns or calluses due to friction
  • Inflammation
  • Redness
  • Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions please 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 What Are Hammertoes?
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