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Monday, 10 July 2017 00:00

Tips for Healthy Feet

Some of the most common complaints people have with their feet are pain, ingrown toenails, cracked heels, and fungus. When it comes to foot pain, many people are unaware that flat shoes can be just as bad as high heels. Flats do not offer any support for the foot, which can cause those who wear them to experience a lot of pain. Ingrown toenails are often the result of cutting your nails incorrectly; instead of cutting your nails in a rounded shape, you should cut them straight across. If you are trying to cure your cracked heels, you should know that they are caused by a lack of moisture in the feet. A helpful tip is to always moisturize and treat your feet the same way you would want to treat the skin on your face. If you want to get rid of toenail fungus, you should always treat it in its early stages, instead of letting it progress into something much worse. If you have any questions about any of these common foot issues, you should speak to a podiatrist right away.

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 office located in Moriches, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Monday, 03 July 2017 00:00

How to Treat Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that occurs between the toes. Symptoms of the condition are itchy, dry, red, scaly skin that tends to worsen in the summer when the weather is humid. The infection itself is usually contracted by walking around barefoot in public areas such as locker rooms or gym showers. Treatments for athlete’s foot come in creams, sprays, liquids, and powders, and they will help stop the fungus from growing. If you have athlete’s foot, be sure to wash your feet prior to applying the treatment to the skin and surrounding area. Also, do not apply to open wounds. Contact a podiatrist for tips on how to prevent and treat athlete's foot.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. 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 treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

Hydrate your feet by using lotion
Exfoliate
Buff off nails
Use of anti-fungal products
Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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.

Tuesday, 27 June 2017 00:00

Tips for Avoiding Running Injuries

It is very important that you take precautions prior to starting your running routine. Running injuries can happen easily due to running too much too soon, or by wearing the wrong shoes. Poorly fitting running shoes have the potential to cause blisters, corns, and calluses; this is why it is advised to try on your shoes prior to wearing them to make sure they fit properly. When you are looking for a new running shoe it is important that the ball of your foot matches where the shoe bends. Furthermore, you should replace your running shoes on a regular basis. The average life of a running shoe is 350 to 500 miles, but if you are a heavy runner, you may need to replace them even sooner.

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 office located in Moriches, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Tuesday, 20 June 2017 00:00

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Pair of Survival Boots

It is important that you own the right pair of survival boots when you are faced with an environmental disaster. Prior to purchasing a pair of boots for your feet, consider the following criteria your boots should meet to ensure a proper fit. Your boots should be comfortable, durable, and breathable while simultaneously providing support and traction. Comfort should be first on your list of concerns so that you can move around without undergoing unnecessary pain. Support is also crucial so that your feet will be able to walk for miles without encountering any ankle related injuries. Furthermore, durability is important so that your shoes will last for a long time without wearing down easily. Traction is also an important factor because you will need to maintain your balance in slippery environments.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from 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 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, properly-fitting shoes are 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 and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Tuesday, 13 June 2017 13:41

Warding Off Plantar Warts

A Texas man called into his local radio station to tell a story about his experience using a gym shower while barefoot. Soon after using that shower, the man started to develop a firm itchy patch on his foot which ended up being a plantar wart. The man thought he could use at-home remedies to get rid of the wart, but he was wrong. After the virus that caused the warts had spread, he eventually decided to seek professional help from a podiatrist who concluded that the man needed to surgically remove the wart on his foot. This man’s story is a perfect example of why you should never shower in a public place barefoot.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from 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 Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

Excessive running
Non-supportive shoes
Overpronation
Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Monday, 05 June 2017 20:17

Why Blood Circulation is Important for Your Feet

The most important function of our blood is to deliver oxygen from our lungs to the farthest parts of our body while removing carbon dioxide and other waste products. Hormones, immune cells, and signalling molecules all travel through the blood in order to support the body's vital processes. Poor blood circulation can occur as we age and is associated with various diseases. Numbness and tingling in the feet are common symptoms of poor blood flow. Coldness in the feet is also a symptom of poor blood flow since the blood is meant to keep the body at a stable, warm temperature. Lastly, foot pain may also be a sign of poor circulation. This may occur after standing or sitting down for a long period of time.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness
Numbness or cramping in the legs
Skin discoloration
Slower nail & hair growth
Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD, and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication.

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.

Wednesday, 31 May 2017 13:34

Plantar Fasciitis Common Among Adults

Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition that most commonly affects those between the ages of 30 to 55, especially those who are athletes. The plantar fascia, a ligament that runs beneath the sole of the foot, supports the arch of the foot and acts as a shock absorber. Repeated stress and impact to the heel, however, can cause the fascia to tear and become inflamed. This results in the foot condition, plantar fasciitis. While there are various specific causes of this condition, excessive pressure is often the culprit. To determine the cause of your plantar fasciitis and the most appropriate treatment, consult with your podiatrist.

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

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.

Tuesday, 23 May 2017 15:57

Dealing with Aches and Pains as We Age

Arthritis and aching joints are one of the most prevalent complaints of people 55 years and over. Dr. Kendra Zuckerman of Main Line Health states, “arthritis technically means an inflammation of the joints.” Deborah Wolf, 76, shares her time between practicing law and playing tennis, and is not ready to slow down her rigorous schedule. However, after the development of arthritis in her knees, activity has become difficult. Dr. Zuckerman advises that exercise and weight-watching is important for arthritic patients, and that anti-inflammatory drugs can also help with the pain, too. Deborah works on knee strengthening and diet-planning to keep her pain at bay.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. 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 can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions

Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet, and can hide many life threating medical conditions.
Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
Shoes that don’t fit properly
Pressure sores
Loss of circulation in legs & feet
Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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.

Monday, 15 May 2017 00:00

Taking Care of Your Feet on Vacation

Traveling can be exciting, but nothing can ruin a trip like foot pain. And that’s not all that you need to watch out for when jet setting. Sitting in a small airplane seat, especially on a long flight, can lead to cramping and discomfort. In order to avoid this, try to walk the aisles as much as you can and stretch frequently. Drinking plenty of water and doing your best to avoid alcohol is also a good tip to avoid the aches and pains of a flight. When you land, there’s a good chance that you’ll be doing some walking. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes to avoid blisters and swelling. Remember, you can’t take a vacation from your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

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.

Wednesday, 03 May 2017 15:06

Decreasing Gout Risk

Gout is one of the most painful forms of arthritis, commonly affecting those aged 60 and higher. Associated with high levels of uric acid, gout is typically characterized by pain and redness in the joints. Many health professionals agree that gout risk can be lowered by managing one’s diet, which involves reducing foods and drinks high in purine from one’s food intake. These foods include alcohol, red meat, organ meat such as liver or kidney, certain seafoods, drinks high in fructose, and processed foods. Lowering one’s uric acid levels is key in reducing gout risk.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

More...

Monday, 24 April 2017 18:38

Different Types of Arthritis

Arthritis is a condition that many people are familiar with but that not many fully understand. Successful treatment of the condition depends on the correct diagnosis, and arthritis can take on three different types: osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis. Each type of arthritis has its own various symptoms and treatments. If you are suffering from arthritis in your feet, consult with your podiatrist to determine the right diagnosis and the best treatment.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, 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.

Arthritic Foot Care

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to 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 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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Tuesday, 18 April 2017 16:09

Understanding Hammertoes

If you have hammertoes, it may be due to a number of factors including improperly-fitting shoes or muscle and nerve diseases that can affect your feet. Hammertoes are described as bent and curled toes, seeming to resemble the claw of a hammer. The condition is permanent and may require treatment if pain progresses. Typical treatment includes wearing the proper footwear and physical therapy. A final option is surgery for severe cases, but consulting with your podiatrist first about your condition is recommended before deciding on the surgical option.

Hammertoe

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

Hammertoe

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 office located in Moriches, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Monday, 10 April 2017 20:15

High School Senior Kispert Undergoes Surgery on Foot

Corey Kispert, a senior at King’s High and a soon to be freshman at Gonzaga, suffered a broken metatarsal. He had been feeling pain in his right foot since a basketball tournament around Christmas and after doctors had told him it was just a stress fracture, continued to play. However, during the next game, in the middle of a layup, Kispert “felt a pop” in both of his feet. X-rays showed an old fracture in his left foot and a broken metatarsal in his right. Surgery was performed on the broken metatarsal and Kispert is expected to be able to start his college basketball career on time.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

Bunionectomy for painful bunions
Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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.

Monday, 03 April 2017 20:52

Risk factors for heel spurs

Heel spurs are one of several conditions that can cause heel pain in the feet. A heel spur is an outgrowth of the heel bone that is pointed. Heel spurs can develop at the back of the heel, under the heel, or beneath the sole of the foot. The growths themselves are a result of calcium deposits that develop over a few months. Risk factors for the condition include walking gait abnormalities, running or jogging, poorly fitted shoes lacking support, being overweight, old age, diabetes, standing for long periods of time, frequent short bursts of physical activity, and having either flat feet or high arches.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot. Bone may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs. Pain sometimes intensifies with age. Heel spurs are known to cause a substantial amount of pain. One of the main associations spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

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.