Items filtered by date: May 2020

Orthotics are insoles that are worn inside of shoes. They can be helpful in realigning the body when certain foot conditions are present. They are designed specifically for each patient. The process begins by having an assessment performed that can determine what type of orthotics are needed. This is followed by taking a mold of each foot to ensure a proper fit. Wearing orthotics daily may be beneficial in correcting foot conditions that can include plantar fasciitis, bunions, and hammertoes. If you are considering having orthotics made, please consult with a podiatrist who can help determine if this is the right choice for you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, 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 Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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.

Research has indicated patients that maintain everyday foot care may be less likely to develop painful foot conditions. Twenty-five percent of the bones in the body are located in the feet, and it is beneficial to practice daily foot care which may help the feet to feel good. Wearing appropriate shoes while in public areas may help to prevent fungal infections from developing, which can include athlete’s foot and toenail fungus. Corns that can develop on the bottom of the foot or between the toes may be avoided when shoes are worn that fit properly. Additionally, this may help to avoid ingrown toenails from developing. A bony protrusion that develops on the side of the big toe is referred to as a bunion, and this may be prevented when the correct style shoes are worn. If you would like additional information about the importance of practicing everyday foot care, please consult with a podiatrist.

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

Research has indicated plantar fasciitis is the reason many patients have heel pain. It is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is the portion of tissue on the sole of the foot that connects the heel to the toes. The reasons why this area may become torn or damaged can consist of standing for long periods of time throughout the day, and wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. The symptoms that many patients experience can include heel pain that may be more noticeable upon arising in the morning, and limping may become natural to ease the pain and discomfort. Specific stretches can be performed that may bring mild relief, and wearing custom made orthotics may provide extra arch support. If you have heel pain, please consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose plantar fasciitis, and successfully treat this condition.

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

Falling can easily affect the feet, and many elderly people who fall may become wary of completing daily activities. This can evoke fear which may possibly lead to depression, which can often make it difficult to stay active. There are effective methods that can be implemented which may help to prevent falling, These can include scheduling regular physical examinations, in addition to having your vision checked. It may also be helpful to have current prescriptions, as this may aid in noticing tripping hazards in the living area. Additionally, it is beneficial to frequently perform a gentle stretching and exercise routine. This activity helps to maintain body strength, and it may make it easier to avoid falling. Many elderly people have installed grab bars in their shower and toilet area, in addition to replacing worn carpeting as well. If you would like more information about how to prevent falling, please consult with a podiatrist who can recommend useful prevention techniques.

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.