Morton’s toe describes a foot shape in which the second toe appears longer than the big toe. This difference usually occurs because the bone behind the big toe is shorter than the bone behind the second toe. Morton’s toe does not always cause problems or require treatment. However, this shape can change how pressure moves across the foot. More force may fall beneath the second toe and the ball of the foot. This uneven pressure can lead to soreness, thickened skin, or strain after standing or walking.

Symptoms can develop when the foot bears weight in this altered pattern. Pain may affect the ball or arch of the foot, and a callus can form beneath the second toe. The longer toe may also rub against the front of a shoe, causing irritation or a bent-toe position. Shoes that lack proper support or have a narrow toe box can make these problems worse. Morton’s toe may also stress nearby joints and soft tissues. A podiatrist can determine whether the foot shape is contributing to pain. The examination includes checking toe position, tender areas, and the patient’s walking pattern. Imaging tests may be ordered when a bone or joint problem is suspected.

Treatment focuses on improving pressure distribution and protecting painful areas. A podiatrist may recommend properly-fitted shoes with enough room for the longer second toe. Custom orthotics can support the foot and shift pressure away from sensitive areas. Padding may provide added protection beneath the ball of the foot. The podiatrist can also treat painful calluses and monitor changes in toe position. When symptoms are severe and other care has not helped, surgery may be considered to correct the bone structure. Treatment is based on the source of pain, foot shape, and daily activity needs. If you have symptoms of Morton's toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, 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 Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please 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 and ankle needs.

Cuboid syndrome develops when the cuboid bone and nearby joint in the foot move out of their normal position or become irritated. The cuboid is a small bone located on the outer side of the foot near the ankle. Pain from cuboid syndrome is usually felt along the outside of the foot. The area can also become tender or swollen. Some patients notice weakness in the foot or difficulty moving it normally. Pain can become worse when standing or placing weight on the affected foot.

An ankle injury can lead to cuboid syndrome, especially when the ankle rolls inward. Repetitive stress can also irritate the area. Activities that place repeated pressure on the feet, like running or dancing, can increase the risk. Foot structure can also play a role. People with flat feet can be more likely to develop cuboid syndrome because changes in foot mechanics can place extra stress on the cuboid area. Wearing shoes that are too tight can also contribute to foot problems. Because symptoms can resemble other injuries, determining the exact source of outer-foot pain is important.

A podiatrist can examine the foot to determine whether the cuboid area is causing the pain. The evaluation can include checking tenderness, joint movement, and how the foot functions when weight is placed on it. A podiatrist can also assess foot structure and walking patterns that could contribute to repeated stress. Treatment can focus on restoring proper movement and reducing pressure on the painful area. Supportive devices can also help address foot mechanics that contribute to symptoms.  An accurate diagnosis is important because fractures and other foot conditions can cause similar pain. If you have symptoms of cuboid syndrome, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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 ingrown toenail develops when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. This problem most often affects the big toe and can cause tenderness, redness, or pain. Some people notice drainage when inflammation or infection develops. Ingrown toenails can make wearing shoes uncomfortable, and may worsen while walking. Early attention can prevent a minor nail problem from becoming more painful or difficult to manage.

Several factors can increase the risk of ingrown toenails. Younger males may experience them more often, particularly during active years. Wearing narrow shoes can squeeze the toes and push the nail edge into nearby skin. Genetics can also play a role, because naturally curved or unusually shaped nails may be more likely to become ingrown. Diabetes is another important risk factor because foot problems may heal more slowly and complications can develop more easily.

A podiatrist can examine the nail, surrounding skin, and signs of infection before recommending treatment. Mild cases may improve with careful nail care and footwear changes. When symptoms are persistent, a podiatrist may gently lift or remove the affected nail edge. A partial nail removal procedure may be recommended for recurring cases. The area is cleaned, protected, and monitored as it heals. Patients should follow wound-care instructions and avoid pressure on the toe.

Symptoms should not be ignored when pain, swelling, or drainage continues. Proper nail trimming can help reduce future problems. Toenails should generally be cut straight across rather than deeply rounded at the corners. Wearing comfortable shoes with enough toe room can also reduce pressure. People with diabetes should seek podiatric foot care instead of attempting to treat a painful ingrown toenail themselves. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions, which may include minor surgery.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, 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.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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.

Ongoing ankle symptoms can affect balance, walking, and overall stability, increasing the risk of falls and lower extremity injuries over time. Many people experience persistent pain, stiffness, swelling, weakness, or limited motion after previous ankle injuries or long-term joint conditions. These symptoms may change the way a person walks and make it more difficult to move confidently on uneven surfaces, stairs, or slippery ground. As balance becomes less reliable, the likelihood of falls may increase, especially in older adults. Fall-related injuries can include fractures, bruising, sprains, and added stress on the knees, hips, and lower back. Some individuals also reduce physical activity because of ankle discomfort, which may weaken muscles and further affect stability. A podiatrist can evaluate ankle function, identify underlying causes of chronic symptoms, and recommend treatment to improve support and mobility. If ongoing ankle symptoms are interfering with balance or daily movement, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious 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.