Blog

Monday, 12 September 2016 22:25

Tips to Maintain Healthy Feet

You should always make sure to put in as much effort into taking care of your feet as you do your face. Your toenails should always be trimmed at the proper length in order to avoid getting dirt trapped underneath them. Another tip to maintain healthy feet is to make sure you drink plenty of water. Dehydration can lead to dry and cracked feet. However, if you have cracked heels you should make sure you are scrubbing your feet thoroughly in order to get remove dried skin. Pumice stones are often used to exfoliate the feet and can make your heels soft and smooth.

Every day foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checkedcontact 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.

Every Day Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. After all, without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks. It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before, for example.

For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops.

Also, wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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

Monday, 05 September 2016 10:18

High Heels May Negatively Impact Foot Health

A study published by the Journal of Applied Physiology has determined that long-term high heel use can have detrimental effects on the legs’ muscles, such as muscle strain and muscle fatigue. According to the study’s abstract, long-term high heel use has been found to “shorten medial gastrocnemius muscle fascicles and increase Achilles tendon stiffness.” The study’s results are consistent with reports that high heel wearers often experience discomfort, pain, and tiredness. It also suggests that “long-term high heel use may compromise muscle efficiency in walking”.

High heels have a history for causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, 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.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because their style and societal appeal. Despite this, they can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

What parts my body will be affected by high heels?

Ankle Joints
Achilles Tendon – may shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
Balls of the Feet
Knees – heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
Back – they decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain. Also, the vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What kinds of foot problems can develop from wearing high heels?

Corns
Calluses
Hammertoe
Bunions
Morton’s Neuroma
Plantar Fasciitis

How can I still wear high heels and maintain foot health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available.

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

Monday, 29 August 2016 19:30

Diabetic Foot is a Major Cause of Hospitalization

Diabetic foot is one of the top 20 causes of hospitalization in Australia. Studies conducted in the country found that one in every twenty-two patients in Australian hospitals have active diabetic foot disease. The disease is also responsible for over 4,400 amputations and 1,700 deaths each year. Nevertheless, early prevention is the best way to assure that diabetic foot does not progress into something much worse. It is recommended that every diabetic who goes to a hospital asks to have their foot screened for diabetic foot. Many people who have the disease often aren’t aware of it.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns 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 your pain free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

●      Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.

●      Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.

●      Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels because blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Read more about Diabetic Foot Care

Tuesday, 23 August 2016 00:34

Caring for Blisters

Blisters are a fairly common foot condition that can be easily prevented with a few simple steps. The first step is to always ensure the feet or kept clean to prevent any germs or bacteria from penetrating the skin. Wearing the right pair of socks can also help support the feet and reduce friction, which can create blisters. Applying bandages or band aids to any already existing blisters can help reduce excess heat or additional friction that can exacerbate the blister.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctorswill assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.
Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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

Read more about blisters on the feet

Monday, 15 August 2016 18:11

Ways to Treat Bunions

Hallux valgus, which is more commonly known as a bunion, is a deformity of the joint at the base of the big toe. Most people who have bunions develop them from wearing uncomfortable shoes for a long period of time. Women are more likely to have bunions compared to men because they often wear high heels. Bunions are not a life threatening condition; however they can negatively impact one’s quality of life. There are a few non-surgical options for those wishing to treat their bunions. Physiotherapy and the use of devices such as bunion splints and toe spacers can work to alleviate bunion pain; however they may not be effective in the long run.

Bunion surgery usually occurs after non-surgical methods have proved to be ineffective. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will assess your injury and provide you with quality treatment.

What is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs by the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why do Bunions Form?

·      Genetics – susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

·      Stress on the feet – poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can cause bunions to form

How are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How are Bunions Treated?

·      Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort

·      Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain

·      Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs

·      Orthotics or foot inserts

·      Surgery

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

Read more about bunions.

Monday, 08 August 2016 18:40

Hyperhidrosis and Your Feet

Hyperhidrosis is the medical term used to describe excessive sweating. Although many people with hyperhidrosis tend to ignore it, they shouldn’t. Hyperhidrosis can interfere with social interaction and productivity at work. Sweat is our bodies’ natural response to hot weather. When the human body heats up in hot weather, it needs to find a way to cool down in order to maintain homeostasis. Sweat helps the body cool down when it is in a heated environment. Topical antiperspirants are an excellent way to help fight hyperhidrosis. When searching for a topical antiperspirant, you should look for one that contains aluminum salt which will help the antiperspirant last longer.

If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Hyperhidrosis of the Feet

Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.

Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.

Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.

In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.

A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.

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

Read more about hyperhidrosis of the feet.

Tuesday, 19 July 2016 14:20

Tai Chi May Help Improve Feet Health

An 87-year-old man named Ned Martino has expressed his praise for the benefits Tai Chi provides. Martino states that Tai Chi has helped him improve his balance. An organization named “Stay On Your Feet” is scheduled to host Tai Chi sessions aimed to help people with arthritis. Tai Chi is an excellent way to improve balance, confidence, and muscular strength.

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 your 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.

Read more about Elderly and Feet

Monday, 11 July 2016 17:42

Man breaks Ankle while Walking in Park

A man named Kevin Peebles was recently attacked by a group of dogs while strolling through a park in the U.K. As a result of the incident, the young man fell down and broke his ankle in two places. While the attack was happening, Peebles said the owner of the dogs was in the woods riding his mountain bike.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctorscan provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

●     Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle

●     Swelling around the area

●     Bruising of the area

●     Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

Read more about broken ankles.

Monday, 04 July 2016 11:15

Brandon Belt sustained Ankle Sprain

While the San Francisco Giants were able to defeat the Padres, they were unable to sustain first baseman Brandon Belt. Belt was seen rolling his ankle while covering first base, with a photograph of the injury circulating around social media. It is not yet known whether or not Belt will be considered for the disabled list, but in the interim he will take time off to rest.

Ankle sprains are common, but need immediate attention. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, 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.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What are the Symptoms?

● Mild to moderate bruising

● Limited mobility

● Swelling

● Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

● Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion

● Stretching before exercises and sports

● Knowing your limits can aid in prevention

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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 care needs.

Monday, 27 June 2016 13:51

Age a Factor in Arthritis Flare Ups

Arthritis flares up more commonly as we age, as a chronic condition in which the joints of the body become inflamed. Arthritis can be caused by previous injury to the joints or by genes. Common forms of arthritis include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Possible treatment options recommended by timesargus include acupuncture and Chinese herbs.

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 will treat your foot and ankle needs.

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 your foot care needs.

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Monday, 13 June 2016 23:59

Why Stretching our Feet is Important

Stretching the feet is recommended especially if you have foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, or pain in the heels. Stretches recommended by Athletics Weekly involve raising and lifting your toes off of the floor and picking up marbles with your feet. These stretches are designed to improve your feet’s flexibility and balance as well as address any foot conditions that you may have.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet 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.

Stretching Your Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Good ways to stretch your feet are:

● Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot

● Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot

● Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

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 care needs.

Monday, 20 June 2016 23:57

Preparing your Feet before a Pedicure

According to podiatrist Dr. Jackie Sutera, there are several tips that women can follow when treating their feet for pedicures. Make sure to properly clean and moisturize your feet, keep your shoes clean through proper maintenance, invest in shoes with efficient support and cushioning, and to occasionally let your toenails breathe in between pedicures, removing the polish completely. Also avoid maintenance such as shaving on your legs and feet right before a manicure, to prevent bacterial infections being contracted through shaving cuts.

Every day foot care is very important, especially for those that are lacking the proper foot care resources. For more information about everyday foot care, consult with one of our podiatrists from Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Every Day 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 care needs.

Tuesday, 14 February 2017 00:00

Natural Remedies to Assist in Every Day Foot Care

Feet are considerably one of the most important features of bodily movement making them prone to a series of problems and injuries. While it is important to contact a professional for serious injuries, natural remedies can often assist in treating and preventing some minor ailments. A foot bath mixture of water and tea tree oil can assist in destroying the fungus that causes athlete’s foot. Some also find that Himalayan Crystal salt and apple cider vinegar mixed with water can also treat athlete’s foot. For callused feet, apple cider vinegar mixed with rice flour and raw honey can make a great exfoliating tool. Soaking the feet in lemon juice and water removes dead skin cells, keeping them soft and crack free. To disinfect and eliminate odor sodium borate, or borax, can be sprayed into your shoes before starting the day.

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

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.

Tuesday, 31 January 2017 00:00

Virtual Reality Helps to Prevent Falls

The use of technology has drastically transformed the way we do things, even in the world of medicine. With a combination of virtual reality and treadmill training, an Israeli study shows that this may be an effective way to prevent dangerous falls associated with aging. Currently, this collaboration of virtual reality and treadmill techniques focus on improving muscle strength, balance, and gait. This Israeli research team, in conjunction with partners across Europe, have found that physical mobility and cognition are important for safe walking, and that participants reduced their risk of falling for at least six month post-training.

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