Blog
Various Types of Orthotics

Many people choose to wear orthotics that can help to protect and realign the structure of the feet. Having plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and heel spurs are common conditions that may be helped by wearing custom-made orthotics. There are various types of insoles, consisting of every day and running. Insoles that are worn daily may last up to six months, and this can depend on how many hours they are worn. People who are athletes may be interested in learning about running insoles, which may last between three and four months. Patients who stand on their feet during the workday may benefit from wearing insoles in their work boots, and this can be successful in providing the necessary support while working. If you would like additional information about the types of orthotics that can be purchased, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the type of orthotics that are best for you.
If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, 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.
What Are Orthotics?
Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.
Over-the-Counter Inserts
Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.
Prescription Orthotics
If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.
If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.
If you have any questions please 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.
Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?
A Puncture Wound on the Foot

A puncture wound can be a small hole in the foot that can be caused by stepping on a sharp, pointed object. It often produces discomfort, and the foot can also become bruised and swollen. Additionally, some patients have difficulty moving the affected area, and it is beneficial to seek medical attention. An animal bite also may cause a puncture wound, and an X-ray may be taken that can determine the depth of the wound. It is important that the wound is properly cleaned, and this can begin with removing existing dirt and debris. This can be followed by applying medicine to the wound, which may help to prevent a bacterial infection. Symptoms may be managed by frequently elevating the foot and keeping it above heart level. This is often effective in reducing swelling and pain that may be present. If you have additional questions about how to perform proper wound care for the foot, it is suggested that you ask a podiatrist who can help you with useful information.
Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, 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.
What Is Wound Care?
Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic.
What Is the Importance of Wound Care?
While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.
How to Care for Wounds
The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.
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.
The Link Between Overpronation and Flat Feet

One of the main causes of poor foot posture is overpronation. This condition occurs when your gait, or how you walk or run, causes the arch of the foot to flatten. This can cause the ankle to roll inward, instead of remaining straight, and puts stress on the muscles, tendons, and ligaments that support the foot arches. The result is a flattening of the feet. However, flat feet are a different matter entirely. Flat feet, or pes planus, are the collapse or absence of the arch. This condition is common among women over 40, pregnant women, in addition to people who are overweight or have certain medical conditions. Pregnant women are also at risk of overpronation, as the result of gait changes due to a redistribution of their weight. Obesity or walking for long periods of time can also contribute to overpronation. Furthermore, patients whose feet are already slightly flattened are more apt to develop overpronation. If you believe that you may be suffering the effects of overpronation or flat feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a gait analysis and an examination of the arches.
If you have any 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.
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 Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Causes of Peripheral Neuropathy

The body is full of nerves whose main job is to let us touch and feel, as well as to warn us of dangerous conditions. The peripheral nervous system contains nerves in the lower extremities. When these nerves become damaged, they are unable to signal the toes and feet when something goes wrong. This condition is known as peripheral neuropathy. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy are numbness, pain, and weakness. Causes include excessive use of alcohol, certain types of medication, vitamin B12 deficiency, and heredity. Other causes are infections, such as shingles and Lyme disease, as well as tumors and diabetes. Many diabetics develop peripheral neuropathy, which leaves them unable to detect sores and cuts on the feet. If left unattended, a cut or sore may turn into a diabetic foot ulcer that can become gangrenous and endanger the limb itself. Such diabetic neuropathy is the result of maintaining high levels of blood sugar that damage the nerves serving the feet. If you are experiencing any level of neuropathy in the toes, feet, or ankles, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist as soon as possible.
Neuropathy
Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, 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 for neuropathy.
What Is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.
Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:
- Numbness
- Sensation loss
- Prickling and tingling sensations
- Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
- Muscle weakness
Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.
Treatment
To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.
Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.
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.
Effective Methods to Prevent Running Injuries

There are several effective stretches that can help to prevent running injuries. For people who enjoy running and jogging, these exercises are often woven into their daily routine. This may be especially true of people that run marathons and who cannot afford to have an injury get in the way of their running goals. A good way to start implementing these practices consists of warming up and cooling down before and after running. People who follow a running program may be less likely to experience an injury, and this may be a result of having a purpose while running. With this in mind, knowing where and when the road will turn, in addition to expecting any hills may help to prevent painful running injuries. It is beneficial to increase speed and mileage gradually, which may avoid heel and calf pain. Many people use a foam roller that can help to strengthen the bottom of the foot, and it can help to perform exercises to increase the range of motion in the feet and legs. If you would like more information about how running injuries can affect the feet and how to prevent them, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with useful knowledge.
All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.
More Tips for Preventing Injury
- Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
- Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
- “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
- Cross-Training is Crucial
- Wear Proper Running Shoes
- Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause 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.
Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?
Common Reasons to Have Ankle Pain

There are several symptoms that accompany ankle pain, including stiffness, pain, and swelling. Ankle pain can happen for various reasons, such as a fall, a direct blow to the ankle, or if it suddenly twists beyond its normal range of motion. An existing medical condition can cause the muscles surrounding the ankle joint to weaken, which may lead to having ankle pain. Many people have difficulty walking with ankle pain, and choose to wrap their ankle with an elastic bandage. This is often successful in providing stability as it heals. Relief may be found when the affected foot is frequently elevated, and it is beneficial to avoid standing for long periods of time. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can determine how severe it is, in addition to offering you correct treatment options.
Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be 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 tendinitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- 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.
What Is This Pain in the Ball of My Foot?

If one feels pain in the ball of the foot, it might be from a Morton’s neuroma. This minor, but uncomfortable, condition causes swelling along a nerve in the foot. Why this happens is unclear, but once the swelling occurs, it can pressure surrounding bones and ligaments and cause inflammation and pain. One might feel a burning or numbness from the ball of the foot to the toes, and it can feel as if there is a lump underfoot. A Morton’s neuroma often develops between one foot’s third and fourth toes. It is more common in women, perhaps from wearing high heels or narrow-toed shoes, which can shift bones out of alignment and increase the risk of this affliction. Those who carry extra weight are also more apt to have this condition. If you have pain in the ball of your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.
What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?
- Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
- Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
- Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities
Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.
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.
Is My Heel Pain Plantar Fasciitis?

One of the most common foot problems is plantar fasciitis. It is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is the band of tissue that is found on the sole of the foot. It connects the heel to the toes, and it can become inflamed for various reasons. These include standing on hard or uneven surfaces for long periods of time or wearing shoes that have inadequate heel support. It can also happen from the aging process that may gradually wear down the heel pad. Some people endure an injury that can tear the plantar fascia, including a sudden fall, repetitive cycling, or frequent participation in running or jumping activities. Plantar fasciitis can be a common condition among people who are overweight, which may cause the fat pads to prematurely flatten as a result of the added weight the feet must carry. If you have pain in your heel or arch area, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose the condition and offer the correct treatment options.
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Excessive running
- Having high arches in your feet
- Other foot issues such as flat feet
- Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
- Being on your feet very often
There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.
Prevention
- Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
- Maintain a healthy weight
- If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain
There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option 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.
More...
What Type of Orthotic Do I Need?

There are specific foot conditions that may benefit from wearing orthotics. These can include flat feet, high arches, and plantar fasciitis. Orthotics are defined as prescribed heel or shoe inserts that are made to treat foot conditions. They generally provide more support in shoes and are available in various shapes and sizes. Custom-made orthotics are known to fall into three categories. Hard materials such as plastic are used to make functional orthotics, and can be durable and long-lasting. They can help to offer support to the foot and improve ankle mobility. Accommodative custom orthotics are made of softer materials, and are generally well-cushioned. They are effective in reducing the stress of standing and walking, and may be chosen for diabetic patients. Orthotics made of both of these types of materials are referred to as semi-rigid. They can be used to treat patients who have arthritic or flat feet. If you have a foot condition that requires orthotics to be worn for maximum improvement, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine what the best type is for you and can create a custom orthotic to meet your foot's specific needs.
If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, 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.
What Are Orthotics?
Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.
Over-the-Counter Inserts
Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.
Prescription Orthotics
If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.
If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.
If you have any questions please 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.
The Importance of Daily Foot Care

To say the feet are critical to functioning is an understatement. They absorb the full impact of the body’s weight, while keeping the body balanced and upright. A host of problems can affect the feet, which can impact comfort and reduce mobility. These can include cracked skin, ingrown toenails, and injured bones. Following a simple foot care routine can help keep the skin, bones, and muscles of the feet functioning properly. Wearing well-fitted shoes that are supportive and comfortable are key factors in maintaining good foot health. If you shop for new shoes, it is important to do so later in the day when the feet are at their largest. The feet are then measured with the socks that will be worn with the intended shoes. It is beneficial for the feet to be exercised to stay strong, and simply walking can fulfill this need. Washing, drying, and moisturizing the feet daily, in addition to wearing socks that can add shock absorption, may help to protect the feet. If foot conditions develop, or if you would like more information about how you can take better care of your feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, 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.
Everyday Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.
It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
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.
Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked
Signs of an Achilles Tendon Rupture

The Achilles tendon is the longest and strongest tendon in the body, and its job is to absorb a great deal of stress. This tendon connects the muscles in the calf to the heel, allowing you to be active on your feet. A ruptured Achilles tendon is either partially or completely torn, which causes a popping sound and extreme pain behind the heel. This is a common injury to athletes, usually between the ages of 30 and 40, and is more common in men than women. Symptoms of a partially torn Achilles tendon include swelling and bruising at the heel, pain while walking up stairs or hills, and difficulty bearing weight. A fully ruptured tendon, however, stops you in your tracks and requires immediate medical attention. Healing from a ruptured Achilles tendon can take as long as six months. An ankle brace or walking brace is usually prescribed, and surgery may be required to mend the torn tendon. For more information on an Achilles tendon rupture, it is suggested that you consult 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 Foot and Ankle. 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 Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.