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Ways to Prevent Toenail Fungus
The condition that is known as toenail fungus is a fungal infection that may attack one or more of the toenails. There may be existing medical conditions that may precede the development of this ailment, including diabetes, nail psoriasis, or a weakened immune system. The fungus that causes this condition typically thrives in moist and warm environments. These may include public pools, shower room floors, and surrounding areas. It typically enters the body through small cuts in the skin, or may lodge in between the nail and the nail bed. There are several symptoms that are associated with toenail fungus. These may include a change in nail texture and color, pain when the nail is touched, or it may easily break. There are measures that can be implemented which may prevent this ailment from occurring. These may include wearing appropriate footwear while in public areas, choosing to wear shoes that are made of breathable materials, and keeping the nails clean and trimmed. If you have developed toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis and treat this condition.
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, Bronx, and Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about How to Treat Your Toenail Fungus
Ways to Prevent Toenail Fungus
The condition that is known as toenail fungus is a fungal infection that may attack one or more of the toenails. There may be existing medical conditions that may precede the development of this ailment, including diabetes, nail psoriasis, or a weakened immune system. The fungus that causes this condition typically thrives in moist and warm environments. These may include public pools, shower room floors, and surrounding areas. It typically enters the body through small cuts in the skin, or may lodge in between the nail and the nail bed. There are several symptoms that are associated with toenail fungus. These may include a change in nail texture and color, pain when the nail is touched, or it may easily break. There are measures that can be implemented which may prevent this ailment from occurring. These may include wearing appropriate footwear while in public areas, choosing to wear shoes that are made of breathable materials, and keeping the nails clean and trimmed. If you have developed toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis and treat this condition.
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.
The Complexity of the Human Foot
The human foot is comprised of several bones, ligaments, and muscles. It is important that our feet are flexible and stable so everyday activities can be completed with ease. Children may benefit at an early age from walking barefoot while indoors. This may help develop the grasping action in the toes, which can promote stability and muscle strength. Research has indicated the importance of measuring your child’s feet on a regular basis, and this is helpful in determining the correct shoe size. When choosing shoes for your child, it is important to ensure the foot is held firmly in place. This may be accomplished by choosing shoes that have laces or Velcro, which can hold the foot securely in the shoe. If you would like additional information on how to care for your child's feet, speak with your podiatrist.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, 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.
Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
- Make sure their shoes fit properly
- Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
- Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
- Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
- Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
- Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
- Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
- Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Bronx, and Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about How to Care for Your Child's FeetThe Complexity of the Human Foot
The human foot is comprised of several bones, ligaments, and muscles. It is important that our feet are flexible and stable so everyday activities can be completed with ease. Children may benefit at an early age from walking barefoot while indoors. This may help develop the grasping action in the toes, which can promote stability and muscle strength. Research has indicated the importance of measuring your child’s feet on a regular basis, and this is helpful in determining the correct shoe size. When choosing shoes for your child, it is important to ensure the foot is held firmly in place. This may be accomplished by choosing shoes that have laces or Velcro, which can hold the foot securely in the shoe. If you would like additional information on how to care for your child's feet, speak with your podiatrist.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, 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.
Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
- Make sure their shoes fit properly
- Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
- Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
- Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
- Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
- Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
- Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
- Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.
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.
Are Flip Flops Dangerous to Wear?
Many people enjoy wearing flip flops, and may be unaware of the potential damage they may cause to the feet. When they are worn for extended periods of time, the ligaments in the arch may become strained. This may lead to pain in the heel and surrounding areas, and can be quite uncomfortable. There is typically little support in the ankle area, and this may lead to ankle sprains. Additionally, the toes may overcompensate for the lack of support in the front of the shoe, and a condition known as hammertoe may develop. If you want to wear flip flops for the majority of the day, it may be beneficial to choose shoes that have a supportive outer sole, which may be helpful in providing the stability the feet need. If you would like additional information about how flip flops may affect the feet, it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist.
Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
Flip-Flops and Feet
When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops. Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer. However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.
How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?
- Ankle problems
- Hip problems
- Lower back problems
- Pain in the balls of the feet
- Problems with foot arches
- Changes in the way you walk
Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?
Yes. Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections. Common injuries and ailments include:
- Sprained ankles
- Blisters
- Infections
- Cuts and Scrapes
I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?
When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet. These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Bronx, and Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Flip Flops and Your FeetAre Flip Flops Dangerous to Wear?
Many people enjoy wearing flip flops, and may be unaware of the potential damage they may cause to the feet. When they are worn for extended periods of time, the ligaments in the arch may become strained. This may lead to pain in the heel and surrounding areas, and can be quite uncomfortable. There is typically little support in the ankle area, and this may lead to ankle sprains. Additionally, the toes may overcompensate for the lack of support in the front of the shoe, and a condition known as hammertoe may develop. If you want to wear flip flops for the majority of the day, it may be beneficial to choose shoes that have a supportive outer sole, which may be helpful in providing the stability the feet need. If you would like additional information about how flip flops may affect the feet, it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist.
Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
Flip-Flops and Feet
When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops. Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer. However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.
How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?
- Ankle problems
- Hip problems
- Lower back problems
- Pain in the balls of the feet
- Problems with foot arches
- Changes in the way you walk
Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?
Yes. Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections. Common injuries and ailments include:
- Sprained ankles
- Blisters
- Infections
- Cuts and Scrapes
I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?
When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet. These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.
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.
Heel Balm for Cracked Heels
Cracked heels are a common condition caused by dryness on the heel of the foot. Cracked heels can range from minor dryness that causes mild discomfort when barefoot, to deep cracks that cause pain. There are a couple ways to help alleviate symptoms of cracked heels from home. One of the simplest ways is to apply heel balm or a thick moisturizer. Balms help to moisturize, soften, and exfoliate dead skin. The ingredients that help to do this are urea, salicylic acid, alpha-hydroxy acids, and saccharide isomerate. Heel balms are easy to find, they can be bought at a drugstore or ordered online. Sometimes, heel balms might result in minor irritation. Minor irritation is normal, but if you experience continual irritation or more extreme reactions, then it is best to stop using the balm. If you have cracked heels and would like to learn about more ways to treat them, then it is strongly suggested you speak with a podiatrist.
If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, 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.
Cracked Heels
It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.
Ways to Help Heal Them
- Invest in a good foot cream
- Try Using Petroleum Jelly
- Ease up on Soaps
- Drink Plenty of Water
Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels
- Moisturize After Showering
- Skip a Shower
- Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
- Don’t Scrub Your Feet
If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Bronx, and Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Solutions for Cracked HeelsHeel Balm for Cracked Heels
Cracked heels are a common condition caused by dryness on the heel of the foot. Cracked heels can range from minor dryness that causes mild discomfort when barefoot, to deep cracks that cause pain. There are a couple ways to help alleviate symptoms of cracked heels from home. One of the simplest ways is to apply heel balm or a thick moisturizer. Balms help to moisturize, soften, and exfoliate dead skin. The ingredients that help to do this are urea, salicylic acid, alpha-hydroxy acids, and saccharide isomerate. Heel balms are easy to find, they can be bought at a drugstore or ordered online. Sometimes, heel balms might result in minor irritation. Minor irritation is normal, but if you experience continual irritation or more extreme reactions, then it is best to stop using the balm. If you have cracked heels and would like to learn about more ways to treat them, then it is strongly suggested you speak with a podiatrist.
If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, 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.
Cracked Heels
It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.
Ways to Help Heal Them
- Invest in a good foot cream
- Try Using Petroleum Jelly
- Ease up on Soaps
- Drink Plenty of Water
Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels
- Moisturize After Showering
- Skip a Shower
- Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
- Don’t Scrub Your Feet
If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need.
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.
Have I Broken My Toe?
Broken toes are typically caused by an injury, or if a heavy object has been dropped on it. Some of the symptoms that may be associated with this condition may consist of severe pain and discomfort, bruising, or swelling. Many patients may find it difficult to walk if they have broken their toe, and this may be a result of an infection that may have developed. Additionally, walking may be hindered because the toe may feel stiff, and the nail bed may have been injured. After a proper diagnosis is performed, which typically involves having X-rays taken, the correct treatment can begin. Mild relief may be found by elevating the foot, in addition to putting minimum weight on it. It may be helpful to tape the injured toe to the toe next to it, and this may provide adequate stability as the healing process occurs. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested to speak to a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.
Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is a Broken Toe?
A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- Swelling
- Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
- Stiffness
- Nail Injury
Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Bronx, and Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about What to Know About a Broken ToeHave I Broken My Toe?
Broken toes are typically caused by an injury, or if a heavy object has been dropped on it. Some of the symptoms that may be associated with this condition may consist of severe pain and discomfort, bruising, or swelling. Many patients may find it difficult to walk if they have broken their toe, and this may be a result of an infection that may have developed. Additionally, walking may be hindered because the toe may feel stiff, and the nail bed may have been injured. After a proper diagnosis is performed, which typically involves having X-rays taken, the correct treatment can begin. Mild relief may be found by elevating the foot, in addition to putting minimum weight on it. It may be helpful to tape the injured toe to the toe next to it, and this may provide adequate stability as the healing process occurs. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested to speak to a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.
Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is a Broken Toe?
A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- Swelling
- Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
- Stiffness
- Nail Injury
Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.
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.
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Have I Broken My Foot?
If you have fallen or twisted your ankle, you may have broken your foot. There are numerous bones, ligaments and tendons that are located in each foot, and one or more may easily fracture if falling occurs. There are several symptoms that may be associated with a broken foot. These may include pain and discomfort, swelling, bruising, or difficulty in walking. In severe fractures, the bones may become dislocated, and may protrude through the skin. It is important to obtain a proper diagnosis, which may be accomplished by having an X-ray performed. This is followed by beginning the correct treatment, which may consist of wearing a supportive boot or cast. This may help to immobilize the foot so the healing process can begin. If you feel you have broken your foot, it is recommended to consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis and offer correct treatment options.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. 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.
Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.
Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:
- Bruising
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Blue in color
- Numbness
- Cold
- Misshapen
- Cuts
- Deformities
Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.
Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Bronx, and Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for a Broken FootHave I Broken My Foot?
If you have fallen or twisted your ankle, you may have broken your foot. There are numerous bones, ligaments and tendons that are located in each foot, and one or more may easily fracture if falling occurs. There are several symptoms that may be associated with a broken foot. These may include pain and discomfort, swelling, bruising, or difficulty in walking. In severe fractures, the bones may become dislocated, and may protrude through the skin. It is important to obtain a proper diagnosis, which may be accomplished by having an X-ray performed. This is followed by beginning the correct treatment, which may consist of wearing a supportive boot or cast. This may help to immobilize the foot so the healing process can begin. If you feel you have broken your foot, it is recommended to consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis and offer correct treatment options.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. 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.
Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.
Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:
- Bruising
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Blue in color
- Numbness
- Cold
- Misshapen
- Cuts
- Deformities
Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.
Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.
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.
Are Bunions a Deformity?
If you have developed a bunion, you may be aware of a structural deformity of the foot. It is considered to be a bone disorder, and affects the big toe. Obvious symptoms that may accompany this condition can include a bony protrusion on the side of the big toe, pain and discomfort, and possibly limited mobility of the affected toe. Bunions typically cause the big toe to move toward the toe next to it, and this is the reason for the joint to extend outward. There are several reasons why bunions may occur, and these may include genetic traits, medical conditions such as arthritis, or foot injuries that may have happened. There are specific foot issues, which may develop as a result of having a bunion, including hammertoe, bursitis, or calluses. It is important to be under the care of a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis this condition, and offer correct treatment techniques.
If you are suffering from bunions, 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 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 one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Bronx, and Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about What Are Bunions?Are Bunions a Deformity?
If you have developed a bunion, you may be aware of a structural deformity of the foot. It is considered to be a bone disorder, and affects the big toe. Obvious symptoms that may accompany this condition can include a bony protrusion on the side of the big toe, pain and discomfort, and possibly limited mobility of the affected toe. Bunions typically cause the big toe to move toward the toe next to it, and this is the reason for the joint to extend outward. There are several reasons why bunions may occur, and these may include genetic traits, medical conditions such as arthritis, or foot injuries that may have happened. There are specific foot issues, which may develop as a result of having a bunion, including hammertoe, bursitis, or calluses. It is important to be under the care of a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis this condition, and offer correct treatment techniques.
If you are suffering from bunions, 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 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 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.
