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Preventing Foot Injuries for the Active Elderly
Compared to younger athletes, elderly athletes are more likely to suffer a foot injury as they get older. Foot conditions and injuries that affect all ages include plantar fasciitis, ankle sprains, stress fractures, and Morton’s neuroma. While the sport one plays can vary, there are certain things that athletes of all ages can do to prevent foot injuries. Wearing an ankle brace can help prevent sprains, while quality footwear can prevent foot pain. Proper arch support can be the difference between comfort and discomfort. Custom orthotics may be necessary for some people who have flat or unsupported feet. Stretching is vital, and everyone should stretch not only before an activity but after as well. Finally, keeping your feet dry by changing socks and using foot powder can prevent conditions like athlete’s foot. If you are an elderly athlete, be sure to see a podiatrist to see if certain activities are right for you.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, 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.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
- Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
- Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
- Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
- Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
- Shoes that don’t fit properly
- Pressure sores
- Loss of circulation in legs & feet
- Edema & swelling of feet and ankles
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact 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.
Preventing Foot Injuries for the Active Elderly
Compared to younger athletes, elderly athletes are more likely to suffer a foot injury as they get older. Foot conditions and injuries that affect all ages include plantar fasciitis, ankle sprains, stress fractures, and Morton’s neuroma. While the sport one plays can vary, there are certain things that athletes of all ages can do to prevent foot injuries. Wearing an ankle brace can help prevent sprains, while quality footwear can prevent foot pain. Proper arch support can be the difference between comfort and discomfort. Custom orthotics may be necessary for some people who have flat or unsupported feet. Stretching is vital, and everyone should stretch not only before an activity but after as well. Finally, keeping your feet dry by changing socks and using foot powder can prevent conditions like athlete’s foot. If you are an elderly athlete, be sure to see a podiatrist to see if certain activities are right for you.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, 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.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
- Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
- Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
- Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
- Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
- Shoes that don’t fit properly
- Pressure sores
- Loss of circulation in legs & feet
- Edema & swelling of feet and ankles
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact 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 Elderly and their FeetPodiatrists and Pedicurists
Podiatrists are doctors who specialize in the foot and ankle and can treat the most severe foot conditions. While conditions like corns, calluses, foot fungus, and cracked heels may seem minor to some, podiatrists offer the best solutions when it comes to fixing them. Pedicurists, on the other hand, are cosmeticians and cannot treat foot ailments. Pedicurists may also not know what a fungal infection like athlete's foot looks like and may therefore be unable to alert you if you have the condition. Despite this, pedicures are a great way to beautify and maintain clean-looking feet. Just ensure that the pedicure salon uses clean instruments, as unclean tools can potentially lead to fungal infections. Be wary of the type of nail polish used by a pedicurist, as certain varieties can be harsh on nails and preserve and hide toenail infections. If the pedicurist cuts skin around the cuticle, this is potentially dangerous and can also lead to infections. Above all, be aware of what is going on in a pedicure salon; remember that pedicurists are not podiatrists and cannot help with foot conditions. If you have an issue with your feet, see a podiatrist for proper care.
If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to 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 a Podiatrist?
Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.
Podiatric Treatment
A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:
- Physical therapy
- Drugs
- Orthotic inserts or soles
- Surgery on lower extremity fractures
A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.
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.
Podiatrists and Pedicurists
Podiatrists are doctors who specialize in the foot and ankle and can treat the most severe foot conditions. While conditions like corns, calluses, foot fungus, and cracked heels may seem minor to some, podiatrists offer the best solutions when it comes to fixing them. Pedicurists, on the other hand, are cosmeticians and cannot treat foot ailments. Pedicurists may also not know what a fungal infection like athlete's foot looks like and may therefore be unable to alert you if you have the condition. Despite this, pedicures are a great way to beautify and maintain clean-looking feet. Just ensure that the pedicure salon uses clean instruments, as unclean tools can potentially lead to fungal infections. Be wary of the type of nail polish used by a pedicurist, as certain varieties can be harsh on nails and preserve and hide toenail infections. If the pedicurist cuts skin around the cuticle, this is potentially dangerous and can also lead to infections. Above all, be aware of what is going on in a pedicure salon; remember that pedicurists are not podiatrists and cannot help with foot conditions. If you have an issue with your feet, see a podiatrist for proper care.
If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to 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 a Podiatrist?
Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.
Podiatric Treatment
A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:
- Physical therapy
- Drugs
- Orthotic inserts or soles
- Surgery on lower extremity fractures
A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.
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 What is a Podiatrist?Houston Texans Backup RB Suffers Ankle Sprain
Backup running back Alfred Blue of the Houston Texans recently sustained a high-ankle sprain. Blue was injured during a practice between the Texans and New Orleans Saints. He is expected to be out for the rest of the preseason; however he should be back for most, if not all, of the main season. While he is a backup to starter Lamar Miller, Blue is considered a good player and has scored five touchdowns and rushed 1,646 yards over three seasons.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Plantar Fasciosis
- Achilles Tendinitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Houston Texans Backup RB Suffers Ankle Sprain
Backup running back Alfred Blue of the Houston Texans recently sustained a high-ankle sprain. Blue was injured during a practice between the Texans and New Orleans Saints. He is expected to be out for the rest of the preseason; however he should be back for most, if not all, of the main season. While he is a backup to starter Lamar Miller, Blue is considered a good player and has scored five touchdowns and rushed 1,646 yards over three seasons.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Plantar Fasciosis
- Achilles Tendinitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in 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 Sports Related Foot And Ankle InjuriesPicking the Right Footwear for Children
When it comes to picking the right shoes, children are much more different than adults. Children’s feet are still growing and developing compared to adult feet. With this in mind, it is important for parents to make sure that their children’s shoes properly fit them. If your child is having a growth spurt, they can quickly outgrow the shoes they wear even if they are relatively new. Children’s shoes should be flexible and have enough space for their toes to move around. They also need to provide good foot support and cushion for comfort. Shoes should be comfortable even after wearing them for hours. Finally, knowing when to wear the right shoe is vital. Sandals or flip-flops are fine for the beach but not for wearing all day. If your child plays sports, they need high performance shoes that can handle the stress. Parents should routinely check their children’s shoes to make sure they properly fit.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Picking the Right Footwear for Children
When it comes to picking the right shoes, children are much more different than adults. Children’s feet are still growing and developing compared to adult feet. With this in mind, it is important for parents to make sure that their children’s shoes properly fit them. If your child is having a growth spurt, they can quickly outgrow the shoes they wear even if they are relatively new. Children’s shoes should be flexible and have enough space for their toes to move around. They also need to provide good foot support and cushion for comfort. Shoes should be comfortable even after wearing them for hours. Finally, knowing when to wear the right shoe is vital. Sandals or flip-flops are fine for the beach but not for wearing all day. If your child plays sports, they need high performance shoes that can handle the stress. Parents should routinely check their children’s shoes to make sure they properly fit.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in 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 What to Do to Keep Your Child’s Feet HealthyPlantar Fasciitis and Tips For Choosing the Right Footwear
Many people experience heel pain, stiffness, and swelling from plantar fasciitis. Choosing the right footwear, however, can help ease the pain. First off, make sure that the shoes you wear are your size and properly fit your foot. Next, check to see that your toes can move freely and aren’t cramped. Choose shoes that have a good amount of heel cushioning. Socks are also important and shouldn’t be too big; they should be breathable and thinner so as not to take up too much shoe space. Shoes with removable soles allow you to swap soles for a better fit. Arch support is vital and can help prevent plantar fasciitis. Elevated heels in shoes can help distribute body weight away from the back of the foot. Taken together, these tips can help ease the pain of plantar fasciitis. It is important to see a podiatrist who can provide more tips for selecting shoes and alleviating plantar fasciitis.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. 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 the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Excessive running
- Non-supportive shoes
- Overpronation
- Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
- Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
- Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
- Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
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.
Plantar Fasciitis and Tips For Choosing the Right Footwear
Many people experience heel pain, stiffness, and swelling from plantar fasciitis. Choosing the right footwear, however, can help ease the pain. First off, make sure that the shoes you wear are your size and properly fit your foot. Next, check to see that your toes can move freely and aren’t cramped. Choose shoes that have a good amount of heel cushioning. Socks are also important and shouldn’t be too big; they should be breathable and thinner so as not to take up too much shoe space. Shoes with removable soles allow you to swap soles for a better fit. Arch support is vital and can help prevent plantar fasciitis. Elevated heels in shoes can help distribute body weight away from the back of the foot. Taken together, these tips can help ease the pain of plantar fasciitis. It is important to see a podiatrist who can provide more tips for selecting shoes and alleviating plantar fasciitis.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. 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 the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Excessive running
- Non-supportive shoes
- Overpronation
- Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
- Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
- Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
- Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
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 Plantar FasciitisMore...
Treating Corns and Calluses
Corns and calluses are thickened areas of skin that form as result of an excess amount of friction and pressure. Diabetics are at a higher risk of developing complications as a result of corns and calluses, so it is imperative that they treat them immediately and with caution. However, those who do not have diabetes should treat their corns and calluses by soaking their feet, using over-the-counter pads and by wearing comfortable shoes. Moisturizing your feet can also be helpful in preventing corns and calluses because it helps keep your skin soft.
If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:
- Well-fitting socks
- Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
- Shoes that offer support
Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctors to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
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.
Treating Corns and Calluses
Corns and calluses are thickened areas of skin that form as result of an excess amount of friction and pressure. Diabetics are at a higher risk of developing complications as a result of corns and calluses, so it is imperative that they treat them immediately and with caution. However, those who do not have diabetes should treat their corns and calluses by soaking their feet, using over-the-counter pads and by wearing comfortable shoes. Moisturizing your feet can also be helpful in preventing corns and calluses because it helps keep your skin soft.
If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:
- Well-fitting socks
- Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
- Shoes that offer support
Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctors to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
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 Corns: What Are They, and How Do You Get Rid of ThemThe Link Between HVA and Bunion Recurrence
To the naked eye, a bunion appears as a bump on the side of the foot that can drastically alter its appearance. Bunions are a foot deformity that is caused when the big toe and first metatarsal bone become misaligned. In severe cases, surgery may be required to repair a bunion if it becomes extremely painful or interferes with your walking ability. While bunion-removal surgery is successful in a lot of cases, there is a chance that your bunion can return after having the procedure. Researchers have found a link between HVA (hallux valgus angles) and the likelihood of experiencing a bunion recurrence. Hallux valgus angles are the angles formed by the toe bone and first metatarsal bone, and larger HVAs tend to result in a higher risk of bunion recurrence.
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.
The Link Between HVA and Bunion Recurrence
To the naked eye, a bunion appears as a bump on the side of the foot that can drastically alter its appearance. Bunions are a foot deformity that is caused when the big toe and first metatarsal bone become misaligned. In severe cases, surgery may be required to repair a bunion if it becomes extremely painful or interferes with your walking ability. While bunion-removal surgery is successful in a lot of cases, there is a chance that your bunion can return after having the procedure. Researchers have found a link between HVA (hallux valgus angles) and the likelihood of experiencing a bunion recurrence. Hallux valgus angles are the angles formed by the toe bone and first metatarsal bone, and larger HVAs tend to result in a higher risk of bunion recurrence.
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 Bunions