Gymnastics places intense demands on the feet and ankles, often leading to injuries from repetitive landings, twisting motions, or sudden impact. Common injuries include sprains from overstretched ligaments, fractures caused by high force landings, and tendonitis from overuse. Stress fractures can also develop when training is intense without adequate recovery time. These injuries may limit performance and cause long-term problems, if not treated properly. A podiatrist can diagnose the specific type of injury, recommend customized treatment, and guide rehabilitation exercises to restore strength and stability. This type of doctor also provides guidance on proper footwear and preventative care. If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain from gymnastics, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can treat these types of injuries, and further guide you on injury prevention.

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

The posterior tibial nerve that runs down your ankle to your foot is encased in the narrow tarsal tunnel along with tendons and blood vessels. When that nerve becomes compressed by an ankle sprain, arthritis, or overuse, it can become inflamed and painful, causing tarsal tunnel syndrome. Gentle exercises that gradually build strength and flexibility may help reduce swelling and pain. However, it is important to start off slowly, and pace yourself as you do not want to make the situation worse. Before attempting any exercise it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist to determine if you have tarsal tunnel syndrome. In addition this foot doctor can also confirm which exercises are safe for you and suggest a treatment plan that is beneficial for reducing pain and swelling, while helping the ankle heal.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, 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.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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

A small growth on the bottom of the heel bone may indicate a heel spur. Patients who have plantar fasciitis may have heel spurs, and this affects the tendon that runs along the bottom of the foot. People who are afflicted with heel spurs often notice heel pain after arising in the morning, and mild relief may be found while walking. The pain may become worse if running or participating in sporting activities, and it is beneficial to rest and elevate the affected foot. It may be helpful to take anti-inflammatory medications which may partially reduce existing pain. If you have the symptoms of a heel spur, it is strongly suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can recommend the correct treatment options for you, which may include custom-made orthotics.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

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

The journey of a child's first steps is a monumental milestone, prompting many parents to wonder when the right time is for those tiny feet to don their first pair of shoes. In the initial stages of crawling and early walking, experts suggest that barefoot is best. This allows little feet to develop naturally, promoting balance and strength. As a child begins to take more confident steps and explores different surfaces, introducing soft-soled shoes provides protection without impeding the foot's natural growth. Typically, at approximately one year of age, when walking becomes steadier, it is an appropriate time to consider the introduction of shoes. Opting for shoes with a proper fit, flexible soles, and breathable materials is vital to support the natural development of the feet. If you have concerns about a more definite time to purchase the first shoes for your child, it is suggested that you consult a 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 Footcare Now. 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 our offices located in Elmhurst Jackson Heights, Astoria, NY, and Rego Park, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.