Items filtered by date: March 2019

The tendon that connects the heel bone to the calf muscles is referred to as the Achilles tendon. This tendon is responsible for helping the feet push off the ground while walking, running, or jumping. It may become torn as a result of an injury that has happened to it. Many things can cause this to occur, including running uphill, participating in sporting activities that involve sharp turns, or possibly from falling. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this type of injury may include feeling pain and discomfort in the back of your ankle, having difficulty while standing on your tiptoes, or your leg may appear swollen. Mild relief may be found when the affected leg is elevated, and this may be helpful in reducing the swelling. If you have torn your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer proper treatment options.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of New York. 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 one of our offices located in Ozone Park, and Manhasset, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

If you frequently run or wear shoes that are too tight, you may develop a blister. This may be a result of excess friction that occurs on a portion of the skin. A blister is defined as a small bubble that is filled with clear liquid and may naturally drain when the affected area of skin has healed. The top layer of the skin may become raw and painful, and the body’s natural defense mechanism may be to develop a blister, which will protect the skin that has been damaged. There may be additional reasons for blisters to develop, which may include allergic reactions, sunburns, or medical conditions such as impetigo. If a blister should become infected, it may appear to be yellow or green, in addition to possibly causing pain and discomfort. If you have a blister on your foot that will not heal, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of New York. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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 feel free to contact one of our offices located in Ozone Park, and Manhasset, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

One of the first symptoms of a condition that is known as toenail fungus is nail discoloration. Additionally, the nails may become thickened and brittle, and it is common for it to spread to other nails. This particular fungus lives and thrives in warm and moist environments which may include public pools, shower room floors, or locker rooms. Some patients may develop this fungus by having wet nails for the majority of the time, and this may come from wearing sweaty shoes and socks. People who are diabetic or have a weakened immune system may benefit from seeking immediate treatment. These patients may experience sores that do not heal properly, and an early diagnosis may determine if it is a nail infection. If you feel you may have this condition, it is suggested to speak to a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis and treat this ailment.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of New York. 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 one of our offices located in Ozone Park, and Manhasset, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

If you work on your feet and stand for the majority of the day, it is important to take care of your feet by choosing the correct shoes. They should have adequate arch support and the heel should be two inches or lower. There are several people who stand in one position for extended periods of time, and this may diminish blood flow to the muscles. Additionally, there may be other conditions that can develop from standing while you’re working. These may include swollen feet, plantar fasciitis, or Achilles tendinitis. It may be beneficial to take breaks which allows you to sit down and rest your feet as frequently as possible. Anti-fatigue mats may be helpful in providing extra support and cushioning that the feet need, and many people find it advantageous to wear cotton socks which are more breathable than nylons. If you would like additional information about how to take care of your feet while working, please speak to a podiatrist who can properly assist you.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from New York. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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