Items filtered by date: August 2022

There are several foot conditions that may require surgery for permanent relief. Hammertoe is an ailment that affects the toes causing the joints of the second and third toes to bend upward, which pushes the toes downward. This condition is a deformity and surgery may be needed for the toes to be permanently straightened. Patients who have conditions like rheumatoid arthritis may opt for a different type of surgery. A tendon transfer can be successful when the tendon is attached to the bone and across the affected joint. This can pull the toes into a straighter position and may improve the overall appearance of the foot. A type of surgery known as a fusion may improve hammertoe by removing parts of the joints so the bones can grow together. This is often effective in reducing existing pain. Amputation can be a last resort and may be done when no other type of treatment is effective. If you have hammertoe and are interested in learning about the different types of surgery to treat this condition, please consult with a podiatrist.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of New York. 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 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.

The movement of the body is referred to as biomechanics. Biomechanics of the feet refer to the movement of the feet and ankles. One of the functions of the ankle is to transfer the forces from the foot to the leg. Ligaments, muscles, and tendons connect the three bones that the ankle is made of and allow the foot to move up and down. The walk cycle, which is known as the gait, is divided into two phases known as the swing and stance phases. The former happens when the foot swings forward and is not in contact with the ground. The latter occurs when the foot hits the ground and this phase is split into three categories: heel strike, midstance, and heel lift. The heel strike allows the foot to roll inward known as pronation. This allows the foot to absorb the shock that comes from walking on different surfaces. The midstance allows the weight of the body to be directly over the foot as contact with the ground is made. When the foot rolls outward this describes the heel lift, and it activates the bones, muscles, and plantar fascia to work together as steps are taken. The foot is a complex structure and if you would like to learn more about how it works, please consult with a podiatrist.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from New York. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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.

A stress fracture is considered to be a hairline fracture. It can happen in the foot, and is often the result of participating in running and jumping activities. It occurs when the bones become fatigued, and cannot support the shock that comes from activity. It generally develops gradually, and many people tend to ignore the pain and discomfort that often accompanies this type of injury. Common symptoms that many patients notice include swelling at the end of the day, and it is difficult to walk as the fracture gets worse. Relief may be found when a boot is worn, and this may provide adequate support as the healing process occurs. This typically takes approximately six weeks, and is further evaluated to see if additional treatment is needed. Mild stretches may accelerate the healing process, which may be beneficial in strengthening the overall foot. If you have foot pain and feel it may be a stress fracture, please confer with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can diagnose and treat this condition.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from New York. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

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.

A stress fracture is considered to be a hairline fracture. It can happen in the foot, and is often the result of participating in running and jumping activities. It occurs when the bones become fatigued, and cannot support the shock that comes from activity. It generally develops gradually, and many people tend to ignore the pain and discomfort that often accompanies this type of injury. Common symptoms that many patients notice include swelling at the end of the day, and it is difficult to walk as the fracture gets worse. Relief may be found when a boot is worn, and this may provide adequate support as the healing process occurs. This typically takes approximately six weeks, and is further evaluated to see if additional treatment is needed. Mild stretches may accelerate the healing process, which may be beneficial in strengthening the overall foot. If you have foot pain and feel it may be a stress fracture, please confer with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can diagnose and treat this condition.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from New York. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

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.

Common symptoms of the foot condition that is known as tarsal tunnel syndrome can include pain, numbness, and weakness in the toes and foot. There is a part of the foot that is called the tarsal tunnel, and is found between the ligaments that run across the foot and the inside of the ankle. Movement and flexibility are made possible by the nerves, arteries, and tendons that are within this tunnel, and repeated pressure on the nerves can cause tarsal tunnel syndrome. This can happen as a result of wearing tight shoes, an existing bony overgrowth in the ankle, or from a foot injury. Additionally, there may be current medical conditions that can cause this condition, such as diabetes, arthritis, or a thyroid disorder. Other symptoms that patients can experience include foot or toe pain, a sensation of an electric shock around the ankle or sole of the foot, and possible swelling. Relief may be found when compression stockings are worn, and specific medicine is prescribed. If you have developed this ailment, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat tarsal tunnel syndrome.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, 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.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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.

Common symptoms of the foot condition that is known as tarsal tunnel syndrome can include pain, numbness, and weakness in the toes and foot. There is a part of the foot that is called the tarsal tunnel, and is found between the ligaments that run across the foot and the inside of the ankle. Movement and flexibility are made possible by the nerves, arteries, and tendons that are within this tunnel, and repeated pressure on the nerves can cause tarsal tunnel syndrome. This can happen as a result of wearing tight shoes, an existing bony overgrowth in the ankle, or from a foot injury. Additionally, there may be current medical conditions that can cause this condition, such as diabetes, arthritis, or a thyroid disorder. Other symptoms that patients can experience include foot or toe pain, a sensation of an electric shock around the ankle or sole of the foot, and possible swelling. Relief may be found when compression stockings are worn, and specific medicine is prescribed. If you have developed this ailment, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat tarsal tunnel syndrome.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, 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.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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.

The Achilles tendon main function is to connect the heel to the calf. An Achilles tendon injury can occur from overuse, or because of a fall. If the tendon tears, it is referred to as a rupture, and is common among those who are active or athletic. This can cause severe pain and discomfort, often making it difficult to walk. There are additional reasons why patients may experience Achilles tendon pain. These include pyoneritides, which is considered to be a form of tendinitis, an infection caused by bacteria, or possibly from fatty deposits in the tendon. Osteoarthritis has been known to cause pain in the Achilles tendon, and it may be a result of a loss of cartilage. Mild relief may be found when performing specific stretches. These include standing on a step and lowering one heel at a time until a gentle stretch is felt. Practicing toe curls can also be an effective exercise, and this is done by bending the knee while curling the toes up, and holding for several seconds. If you would like to know more about Achilles tendon injuries or how to perform exercises that can help this type of pain, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

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.