Items filtered by date: October 2023

Pregnancy is a memorable journey, bringing about numerous changes in the body, including those that affect the feet. While these changes are usually temporary and subside after childbirth, they can be quite uncomfortable. One common condition is edema, or swelling, which affects the feet and ankles due to increased blood volume and pressure on leg veins. This swelling can lead to discomfort and a need for larger shoe sizes during pregnancy. Another issue is overpronation, where the arches of the feet may flatten, resulting in pain and instability. Additionally, the hormone relaxin can affect the ligaments in the feet, potentially causing them to stretch and alter the foot's structure. Understanding these changes and their potential impact on foot health is essential during pregnancy. These conditions are typically temporary, but if foot pain or issues persist during or after pregnancy, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you with proper treatment and relief tips.

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 New York. 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 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.

Children's feet are remarkable in their growth and development, undergoing significant changes from birth to adolescence. During infancy, a baby's feet are mostly cartilage, gradually ossifying into bones. It is fascinating to note that a child will typically grow approximately 17 shoe sizes by the age of two. As they start walking, the arches of their feet begin to form and develop, providing stability and support. Children often have a naturally wider forefoot and a flat arch due to the accumulation of fatty tissue, which eventually diminishes with age and activity. Wearing proper footwear when the time is right is important for healthy foot development, allowing room for growth and adequate support. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist can ensure any potential foot issues are addressed early. If you would like additional information about the stages of development in children’s feet, it is suggested that you confer 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 New York. 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 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.

Understanding supination and pronation as they relate to the feet is essential for maintaining proper foot health. Supination refers to the positioning of your foot when your weight tends to be more on the outside during walking or running, essentially causing your foot to lean outward. Pronation means your weight tends to be more on the inside of your foot during these activities, causing your foot to lean inward. Ideally, during a proper stride, your foot should roll forward from heel to toe with neutral pronation, ensuring even weight distribution. Excessive supination places stress on the outer side of your foot and can lead to uneven wear on the outside of your shoe. It may result in various issues, including calluses, bunions, and pain in your heels and the balls of your feet. Excessive pronation involves your foot rolling toward the inside, leading to uneven wear on the inside of your shoe and potential pain in your arch, heel, and ankle. The causes of these pronation issues can be genetic, such as having a high arch or uneven leg lengths, or they can result from injuries, overuse, or walking on hard surfaces. Obesity or pregnancy may also increase overpronation. If you suspect issues with your foot mechanics, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment plan options. 

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.

Fencing is a thrilling dance of swords, a clash of sharp intellects, and a showcase of exceptional skills. However, within the fluidity of each swift lunge and precise comeback, the potential for injuries lurks in the shadows. It can help to be aware of early indicators of injuries in fencing to proactively try to evade them. Foot and ankle injuries such as sprains and strains can emerge from absorbing the impact of swift maneuvers and changes in direction. Typical signs encompass discomfort, swelling, and challenges in walking or bearing weight. Safeguard against foot injuries by investing in top-tier fencing footwear, executing thorough warm-up routines, and upholding precise footwork techniques. In cases of foot injuries, the recommended course of action is resting, elevating, and compressing the affected limb. If you participate in fencing and have sustained a severe or persistent foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, 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.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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.

Gout and kidney disease are two distinct medical conditions, but they share a complex relationship that can significantly affect one's health. Gout is a type of arthritis characterized by sudden, severe joint pain, often in the big toe, caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. Kidney disease involves the impaired function of the kidneys, leading to the buildup of waste and toxins in the body. What ties these two conditions together is uric acid. When the kidneys are unable to effectively filter and excrete uric acid, it can accumulate in the bloodstream, increasing the risk of gout attacks. Furthermore, some medications used to treat gout can potentially worsen kidney function. Managing both conditions requires a comprehensive approach. It is beneficial for patients to monitor kidney function, control uric acid levels, and adopt lifestyle changes. These can include eating a balanced diet and drinking plenty of water. If you are experiencing gout attacks, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate treatment options.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from New York. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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.