Items filtered by date: July 2021

A bunion is a noticeable foot condition that consists of a hard lump on the side of the big toe. It can cause the big toe to point toward the other toes, and larger shoes may need to be purchased for maximum comfort. Bunions can form due to genetic reasons, in addition to wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. Some of the symptoms that are associated with bunions include general pain on the bottom or side of the foot, and the affected area may appear red and swollen. Some patients find mild relief when a protective pad is worn over the bunion, and this may be helpful in diminishing a portion of the swelling. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can discuss surgery for permanent removal for severe bunions.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact the foot specialists of Certified Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Sinus tarsi syndrome, also known as sinus tarsitis, is an injury to an area of the foot called the sinus tarsi that may follow an ankle sprain, be caused by repetitive strain to the foot and ankle, or arise due to abnormal foot biomechanics. The sinus tarsi is a small, cylinder-shaped cavity located between the foot bone (talus) and the heel bone (calcaneus). Several ligaments, blood vessels, and nerves pass through the sinus tarsi and play an important role in helping us balance and sense movement. When this area becomes inflamed, it can lead to a deep pain and tenderness over the outside of the ankle, instability, and stiffness. Fortunately, this condition is fairly rare and easy to recover from given the correct diagnosis and care. If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist near you.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with the foot specialists from Certified Foot Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

It is no secret that as we age, so do our feet. With age comes wear and tear on the ligaments, joints, and muscles of the feet, as well as systemic health conditions that can impact foot health, such as diabetes or neuropathy. If you are an older adult, knowing about the structure and function of your feet and how to best care for them can truly pay off. Adults who are educated about proper foot care techniques, including how to maintain good foot hygiene, how to perform foot strengthening exercises and stretches, and how to choose the right shoes, may reduce their risk of foot and ankle injuries, foot diseases, and falling. A podiatrist can play a key role in educating you about how to best care for your feet. For more information, schedule a visit with a podiatrist near you. 

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact the foot specialists from Certified Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

If you have plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot, then you are likely no stranger to heel and arch pain. This problem can be exacerbated by wearing the wrong shoes, especially if you work in a job that requires prolonged standing or walking. When shopping for work shoes, you should look for shoes that offer arch support, which will help evenly distribute your weight across the foot and reduce pressure on the plantar fascia. Shoes with cushioned insoles can provide extra support. You might also want to look for shoes that are made of a durable material and have a slip-resistant grip. These can both decrease the risk of further injury. If you are experiencing plantar fasciitis pain, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist, who can offer further treatment options, such as custom orthotic inserts or footwear. 

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact the foot specialists from Certified Foot Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

• Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
• Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
• Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
• Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
• Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

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