As people age, their feet bear the brunt of a lifetime of activity, an accumulation of wear and tear that can lead to various problems. Women over 50 are particularly prone to foot issues as they age. These are caused by hormonal changes, decreased bone density, and the effects of wearing high heels. The soft tissues in the feet lose elasticity over time, making older adults more susceptible to conditions like Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis. Among the foot problems associated with aging are stress fractures, plantar fasciitis, and bunions, flat feet, and osteoarthritis, which can hinder mobility and cause discomfort, are other ailments common among seniors. While simple measures like wearing supportive shoes and engaging in low-impact exercises can alleviate symptoms, persistent foot pain necessitates professional attention from a podiatrist, or a foot and ankle specialist, to prevent further complications. If you are an older adult who is experiencing foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

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 Footcare Now. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

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

Common Conditions 

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

Susceptible Infections

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

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

Arthritis, whether rheumatoid or osteoarthritis, can significantly impair one's quality of life, particularly when it affects the feet. Constant foot pain can hinder mobility, limit activities, and lead to physical and emotional challenges. However, custom-made orthotics can help those grappling with arthritis-related foot discomfort. Orthotics are tailor-made shoe inserts designed to alleviate pressure on specific areas of the foot, redistributing weight and promoting proper alignment. By providing support and cushioning, orthotics reduce pain and discomfort, allowing individuals to move more freely and engage in daily activities. Moreover, orthotics can help reduce the need for pain medication, offering a non-invasive alternative for managing arthritis symptoms. By improving gait and reducing strain on joints, orthotics can also play a significant role in preventing the progression of arthritis, helping individuals maintain their mobility and independence for longer. If you suffer from arthritic symptoms of the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for relief options.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. 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 our offices located in Elmhurst Jackson Heights, and Astoria, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Sever's disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a common childhood condition characterized by heel pain caused by inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone. It typically affects physically active children and adolescents, particularly those experiencing growth spurts during puberty. The condition occurs due to repetitive stress or tension on the growth plate and can be seen in active children involved in sports with running or jumping. Radiographic tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans, may be conducted to diagnose Sever's disease, ruling out other potential causes of heel pain and assessing the extent of inflammation or bone changes. If your child complains of heel pain, or if you notice them limping, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to help manage this condition.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Elmhurst Jackson Heights, and Astoria, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

Neuropathy, a condition often associated with diabetes but not exclusive to it, refers to nerve damage that can result in loss of sensation in the feet. Non-diabetic foot wounds stemming from neuropathy occur due to the inability to perceive pain or pressure, leading to unnoticed injuries that can worsen into ulcers. Without proper sensation, individuals may continue walking on injured feet, exacerbating the wounds. Podiatrists play an important role in managing these ulcers by conducting thorough assessments to determine the extent of damage, implementing preventive measures to alleviate pressure on affected areas, and initiating treatment plans tailored to individual needs. This may involve wound care, infection management, offloading techniques to reduce pressure on the wound site, and patient education on foot care practices to prevent further complications. If you have a foot wound of any type, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for immediate treatment.

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 Footcare Now. 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 our offices located in Elmhurst Jackson Heights, and Astoria, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Bunions are bony protrusions that form at the base of the big toe, causing it to lean inward toward the other toes. Bunions often result from a combination of genetic factors, wearing improper footwear, and structural issues in the foot. As the bunion develops, it can lead to pain, inflammation, and difficulty with shoe wear. In severe cases, complications such as bursitis, hammertoes, or even arthritis may arise due to the altered foot mechanics. If you have a bunion that is causing significant discomfort and interfering with your daily activities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer you various treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Footcare Now. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

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

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

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

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

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

How Are Bunions Treated?

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

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

A broken ankle, or ankle fracture, occurs when one or more of the bones making up the ankle joint break. This injury often happens due to trauma, such as twisting the ankle during a fall, sports injury, or car accident. Symptoms of a broken ankle include severe pain, swelling, bruising, inability to bear weight, and deformity of the ankle joint. Early intervention by a podiatrist is essential to properly diagnose and treat the fracture. Treatment typically involves immobilization of the ankle with a cast or brace to allow the bones to heal properly. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to realign the bones or stabilize the fracture with hardware. While recovery time varies depending on the severity of the injury, rehabilitation is often recommended to restore strength, flexibility, and function to the ankle joint. If you have sustained an ankle fracture, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for proper treatment and rehabilitation, for the best possible outcome with minimal complications.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

Plantar warts are benign growths caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, infecting the outer layer of the skin on the soles of the feet. They often appear as small, rough lesions with tiny black dots, known as wart seeds. These warts thrive in warm, moist environments such as showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools, making them common among barefoot individuals. Unfortunately, there is no singular quick-fix cure for plantar warts, as treatment methods vary and can take time to be effective. Diagnosis typically involves a visual examination by a podiatrist, sometimes supplemented by a biopsy or other tests. It is important to note that plantar warts can be mistaken for other conditions like calluses or corns. Prevention involves keeping feet clean and dry, avoiding walking barefoot in public areas, and wearing protective footwear, especially in communal spaces. If you or your child has a plantar wart, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

Optimal foot health is important for maintaining overall well-being, and a podiatrist is instrumental in achieving this goal. This type of foot specialist will conduct a comprehensive review of your medical history, followed by a thorough examination to diagnose the cause of your foot, toe, or ankle problems. A podiatrist can then offer a range of treatment options, which in some cases may include surgical intervention. In addition to treating more common foot ailments, like ingrown toenails or sprained ankles, many podiatrists also specialize in managing sports-related injuries, diabetic wound care, and surgery. With their expertise in ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests such as X-rays and ultrasounds, podiatrists ensure accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans. Podiatrists can prescribe medications for pain management, as well as provide advice for ongoing or preventive care. Whether you're dealing with foot pain, or injury, or seeking preventive care, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

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 Footcare Now. 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 our offices located in Elmhurst Jackson Heights, and Astoria, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.