Items filtered by date: October 2019

Recent studies that have been conducted in the United Kingdom indicate approximately half of pregnant women are influenced by society to keep up with the latest fashion trends. This consists of choosing to wear inappropriate shoes that include high heels and flip flops during the majority of their pregnancy. When these types of shoes are frequently worn, the risk of falling may increase. This may be a result of hormonal changes that occur within the body, causing the ligaments and muscles to stretch and become soft. Pregnant women may feel more secure when flip flops are avoided, and shoes with a lower heel are worn. It is beneficial to choose shoes that have the proper amount of cushioning, as this is often helpful in providing adequate support. If you would like additional information about how to choose the correct shoes to be worn during pregnancy, please consult with a podiatrist.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Some symptoms your child might be experiencing if they have a broken toe are swelling, redness, severe pain, and discomfort. These symptoms typically occur at the time of the injury. In more severe fractures, the bone may protrude from the skin, which is referred to as a dislocated bone. Broken toes can happen for a variety of reasons including: stubbing the toe against a piece of furniture, stepping off of a curb unexpectedly, or jamming it while participating in sporting activities. If the pain is extreme, an X-ray should be performed to determine the extent of the fracture. If your child has broken his or her toe, it is advised that you speak to a podiatrist who can discuss proper treatment options with you.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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.

The foot condition that is known as cracked heels is fairly common among the majority of people. It is defined as dry skin that begins on the edge of the heel, and may advance to deep cracks, or fissures developing in the entire heel area. It can occur from genetic factors, or from wearing shoes that have an open back, which provide inadequate support. Additional reasons why cracked heels may develop can include obesity and the normal aging process.This ailment can be treated by thoroughly washing and drying the feet daily, followed by using a good moisturizer several times per day. If the heels are severely dry and become infected, it is advised that you speak to a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment options and recommend preventative methods.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, 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.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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.

Friction is typically the principal cause of blisters on the feet. They can occur from wearing shoes that do not fit properly, which may cause rubbing against the heel or toes. Additionally, they can also form as an allergic reaction to an insect bite, or from severe sunburn or frostbite. They are defined as small bubble-like areas that are filled with clear fluid which protects the damaged skin. It generally drains naturally, as the skin heals and is replaced by new skin. If the blister should become infected, the fluid may be filled with pus or blood, and should be treated immediately. It is helpful to put a covering over the blister while wearing shoes, as this may help to protect the blister as much as possible while the healing process begins. If you frequently get blisters on the feet, it is advised that you speak to a podiatrist who can offer proper treatment options.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, 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.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can 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.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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.

Research has indicated that it may be a common occurrence for elderly people to fall. This can happen for a variety of reasons. These can consist of fear from past falls, wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or having poor vision. Additionally, many seniors may experience imbalance while walking, and this could be a result from taking certain medications. It is beneficial to engage in a regular exercise programs, as this is helpful in maintaining a strong body. It is important to make safety changes in the home which can include installing grab bars in the toilet and shower area, and replacing rugs that are worn. It also helps to complete daily activities in a slower manner, as this can help to prevent falling. If you have any questions or concerns about how falling can affect the feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, 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 advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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.

The importance of properly taking care of your child’s feet is crucial in possibly preventing certain foot conditions from developing. Children’s feet may be sweaty for the majority of the day, and it is important to wash and dry them on a daily basis. This may prevent athlete’s foot from occurring. Research has indicated that children's feet may become stronger when they can walk barefoot while indoors. This can be a result of the grasping motion that occurs when the toes touch the floor. Ingrown toenails may be prevented when the toenails are cut frequently and in a straight line. Additionally, when it is time for your child to walk outside, it is helpful to purchase shoes that fit properly. This can be accomplished by measuring your child’s foot to determine the correct shoe size. If you would like more information about how to take care of your child’s feet, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, 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.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during 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. Here are some things to consider...

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’. 

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 for 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.

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.

The medical term that is known as flat feet refers to an absence of an arch in the foot. This condition is noticeable when the foot lies completely flat on the floor, and can change the structure of the foot. The majority of babies are born with flat feet, and the arch will typically develop in the teenage years. Additional reasons why flat feet may occur can include genetics, an injury that has happened to the foot, or existing medical conditions such as arthritis and diabetes. If there is discomfort, moderate relief may be found when shoes that have adequate support are worn. It may be advantageous for overweight patients to lose excess pounds, and this may be helpful in relieving pressure on the feet. If you are afflicted with flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can properly treat flat feet.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is 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. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches 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 offices located in Moriches and Shirley, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.