Heel pain is a common problem that can arise from various conditions. One frequent cause is plantar fasciitis, which involves inflammation of the thick tissue band along the bottom of the foot, leading to sharp pain near the heel. Bursitis, another issue, occurs when the fluid-filled sacs cushioning the heel become inflamed, often due to repetitive stress. Heel spurs are bony growths on the underside of the heel, and they can form from long-term strain on the foot's muscles and ligaments. Additionally, a pump bump is a bony enlargement at the back of the heel caused by pressure from shoes. Achilles tendonitis, characterized by inflammation of the Achilles tendon, usually results from overuse or tight calf muscles. To diagnose heel pain, a healthcare provider will typically conduct a physical exam, review your medical history, and recommend imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs. Treatment options often include rest, stretching exercises, orthotic devices, and anti-inflammatory medications. If you experience persistent heel pain, it is suggested you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, 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.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

Bunions, or hallux valgus, vary in severity and presentation, each impacting foot health differently. Mild bunions appear as a slight deviation of the big toe, causing minimal discomfort and manageable skin irritation. Moderate bunions involve more noticeable toe misalignment, leading to increased pain and difficulty with footwear. Severe bunions show significant toe deformity, often resulting in chronic pain and restricted movement. Skin irritation is common, with calluses forming due to friction. Hallux limitus, a related condition, restricts the big toe's range of motion and can accompany bunions. Additionally, bunionettes, or tailor's bunions, appear on the little toe's side and present similar issues. Pediatric bunions, though less common, can occur in children and may require early intervention to prevent progression. If you have developed any type of bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, 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?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments surrounding the ankle joint are overstretched or torn, often resulting from an awkward step or a sudden twist. Ankle sprains can happen during sports or everyday activities, such as walking on uneven ground or tripping on stairs. Common symptoms of ankle sprains include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty putting weight on the affected foot. While mild sprains typically heal with rest, more severe cases may require additional support, such as braces or splints to aid in recovery. Ignoring a sprain can lead to long-term instability and recurring injuries. A podiatrist can assess the severity of your ankle sprain, recommend the proper treatment, and guide the rehabilitation process to prevent future complications. If you believe you may have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, 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.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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

Gout is an arthritis that can cause sudden, severe pain and inflammation in the foot often affecting the instep and ankle areas. This condition occurs due to a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints that may lead to intense pain, swelling, and redness. The instep, or the top of the foot, is particularly susceptible to gout attacks, while the ankle may also be affected causing discomfort and restricted movement. Risk factors for developing gout include a diet high in purines, which are found in red meat and certain seafood, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and genetic predisposition. If you have gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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