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Causes of Ankle Bruises
Bruising on the ankles can occur for various reasons, with trauma being the most common cause. Injuries such as sprains, strains, or falls can result in broken blood vessels, leading to visible bruises. However, bruising may also indicate underlying medical conditions. Conditions like diabetes, blood clotting disorders, or peripheral artery disease can affect circulation, making bruising more likely. Certain medications, such as blood thinners or steroids, can also increase the risk of bruising by affecting blood clotting or weakening blood vessel walls. Aging can also play a role, as skin becomes thinner and blood vessels lose their strength over time, making bruises more likely from minor impacts. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly a lack of vitamin C, vitamin K, or bioflavonoids, can also contribute to easy bruising. If your ankles have become bruised, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate treatment solutions.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. 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 tendonitis
- 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 one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
It's Time for Beautiful Feet
You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.
Benefits of Choosing the Right Shoe Size
Choosing the right shoe size is essential for overall foot health and comfort. Wearing shoes that are too tight can lead to blisters, calluses, and even long-term conditions like bunions or hammertoes. Shoes that are too loose can cause instability, leading to slips, falls, or joint pain. Properly fitting shoes provide adequate support to the arches, cushioning to absorb shock, and protection from external pressure. They can help improve posture, reduce foot fatigue, and prevent injuries by promoting better alignment. Additionally, the right shoe size enhances overall comfort during physical activities like running, walking, or standing for extended periods. When shoes fit well, they allow for natural foot movement, providing a balance of support and flexibility, which is essential for maintaining foot health and avoiding discomfort. If you have endured foot pain from wearing the wrong shoe size, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer relief techniques, and guide you on how to find your correct shoe size.
Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Getting the Right Shoe Size
There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.
- When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
- Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
- Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
- Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
- If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes
As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Essential Diabetic Foot Care
Regular foot care is essential for people with diabetes, as high blood sugar can lead to nerve damage known as neuropathy, and poor circulation, making feet more vulnerable to injury and infection. Symptoms often include numbness, tingling, or a loss of sensation in the feet, making it difficult to feel cuts, blisters, or sores. If left untreated, even minor injuries can lead to serious complications, including ulcers and infections. The primary causes of foot issues in diabetics patients are nerve damage, poor circulation, and reduced ability to heal wounds. Diabetic individuals may also experience dry skin, calluses, or fungal infections. A podiatrist can provide essential care, including regular foot exams, wound care, and preventative treatments. They may recommend custom shoes or orthotics to reduce pressure points, prescribe medications for infections, and teach proper foot hygiene techniques. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
- Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
- Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
- Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Dangers of Tophi From Chronic Gout
Tophi are firm, often painless lumps that can develop around the joints, especially in the feet, toes, and ankles, in people with advanced gout. These nodules form when uric acid crystallizes and accumulates over time, creating hardened deposits beneath the skin. While initially they may not cause discomfort, larger tophi can lead to joint instability, limited movement, and significant pain. The skin over a tophus may become stretched and thin, and in some cases, it can ulcerate, exposing a chalky substance inside. Without treatment, tophi can erode bone and cartilage, resulting in chronic inflammation and joint deformity. A podiatrist can diagnose and manage tophi by evaluating joint damage, guiding treatment to reduce uric acid levels, and performing surgical removal if needed. Addressing tophi early can help prevent further complications and restore mobility. If you frequently have painful gout flare-ups, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment options.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. 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 Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a fungal infection that affects the nails, typically starting at the tip and spreading deeper into the nail. The primary cause is exposure to fungi, which thrive in warm, moist environments such as public showers or pools. Toenail fungus is more common in individuals with weakened immune systems, poor circulation, or those who wear tight, non-breathable shoes. Symptoms include thickened nails, discoloration, crumbling edges, and sometimes a foul odor. The nail may become detached from the nail bed in severe cases. Diagnosis is usually made through a physical examination, and a sample of the infected nail may be taken for laboratory testing, such as a fungal culture or nail biopsy, to confirm the presence of the fungus. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition, which may include prescribed medication.
If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Symptoms
- Warped or oddly shaped nails
- Yellowish nails
- Loose/separated nail
- Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
- Brittle, broken, thickened nail
Treatment
If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.
Prevention
In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.
In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Heel Pain Can Be Treated!
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek professional help and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
Prioritizing Falls Prevention for Seniors
Falls prevention for the elderly is a critical issue, especially as the aging population grows worldwide. Falls are a leading cause of injury and hospitalization among seniors, often resulting in fractures, head injuries, and a loss of independence. The topic has gained prominence due to the rising healthcare costs and the strain on medical systems. Factors like declining balance, reduced muscle strength, vision problems, and unsafe home environments contribute to the risk. Preventing falls involves regular physical activity to improve strength and coordination, wearing supportive footwear, and making homes safer with grab bars and proper lighting. Routine health checks to address vision, medications, and foot health also play a vital role. If you are a senior, it is suggested that you schedule regular visits to a podiatrist to address any issues associated with your feet and ankles that may contribute to the risk of falls.
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 New York Foot and Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Causes and Symptoms of Ankle Arthritis
Ankle arthritis is a condition where the joints in the ankle become inflamed, causing pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions the bones in the ankle wears down over time, leading to direct contact between the bones. The most common causes of ankle arthritis include previous injuries, such as sprains or fractures, which can damage the joint and increase the risk of arthritis. Other contributing factors include age, genetics, and inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Symptoms of ankle arthritis typically include pain, especially after activity, swelling, and a decrease in range of motion. People with this condition may also experience difficulty walking, instability, and a feeling of weakness in the ankle. Managing ankle arthritis often involves a combination of medication, and in severe cases, surgery to improve mobility and reduce pain. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose ankle arthritis and manage it accordingly.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain. The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it. Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.
Symptoms
- Swelling
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Decreased Range of Motion
Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.
Risk Factors
- Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
- Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
- Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
- Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
- Age – Risk increases with age
- Gender –Most types are more common in women
- Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary
If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Proper Footwear for Restaurant Workers
For restaurant workers, wearing the right footwear is essential for both comfort and safety. Long hours spent on hard, slippery floors can put significant strain on the feet, legs, and lower back. Proper footwear helps to cushion the feet, reduce fatigue, and prevent injuries such as sprains, strains, and blisters. Shoes with good arch support, non-slip soles, and a proper fit can improve posture and alignment, reducing the risk of developing chronic pain or foot conditions. Additionally, slip-resistant shoes help prevent accidents in environments where spills and wet floors are common. Over time, wearing inadequate footwear can lead to more serious problems such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, or even stress fractures. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury during your workday, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on appropriate footwear choices.
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 Foot and Ankle. 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 Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Causes and Associated Conditions of Hammertoe
Hammertoe is a deformity in which one or more toes bend downward at the middle joint, causing a claw-like appearance. This condition can result from a variety of causes, including muscle imbalances, poor footwear choices, or inherited traits. In some cases, hammertoe is associated with underlying health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, where joint inflammation can lead to deformities in the toes. Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a genetic disorder that affects peripheral nerves, can also cause muscle weakness and imbalance, contributing to the development of hammertoe. Another common cause is an elongated second metatarsal bone, which can lead to abnormal pressure on the toes, causing them to bend. Symptoms of hammertoe include pain, difficulty walking, and corns or calluses forming on the affected toes. If you have developed a hammertoe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who may guide you toward wearing corrective footwear, splints, or, in severe cases, surgery to realign the toe.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.
Symptoms
- Painful and/or difficult toe movement
- Swelling
- Joint stiffness
- Calluses/Corns
- Physical deformity
Risk Factors
- Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
- Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
- Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
- Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe
Treatment
If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?
Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
Changes in Foot Growth During Pregnancy
Many women notice changes in their feet during pregnancy, often leading to the question of whether their feet actually grow. The answer is yes, as hormonal changes and weight gain can cause the ligaments in the feet to relax, leading to a widening and lengthening of the foot. This is largely due to the hormone relaxin, which prepares the body for childbirth by loosening ligaments. Additionally, the increased weight and fluid retention can contribute to swelling. For some women, feet may return to their pre-pregnancy size after childbirth, while others find their feet remain larger permanently. This lasting change can be attributed to factors such as age, genetics, and the amount of weight gained during pregnancy. If you have developed foot pain or other foot problems during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief solutions.
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 Foot and Ankle. 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 Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Tips for Choosing Running Shoes as a Beginner
For beginners, selecting the right running shoes is essential for comfort and injury prevention. First, consider the type of running you plan to do, whether it is road running, trail running, or casual jogging. Each type requires specific features tailored to different terrains. Stability features are important for those who overpronate, as they help maintain proper alignment and support the foot's arch. Look for shoes with cushioning to absorb impact and provide comfort during longer runs. Motion control features are beneficial for individuals with flat feet or severe overpronation, offering extra support to prevent excessive rolling inward. Trying on multiple pairs and considering foot shape and size is vital for finding the perfect fit. If you have injured your foot or ankle while running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on how to choose the right running shoe.
If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type
To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.
- Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
- Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
- Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
