A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the main joint of the big toe because the joint was pulled out of alignment. This causes the big toe to be turned towards the rest of the toes. This condition gradually develops over time and becomes more and more painful around the base of the big toe. There are a variety of factors that can lead to the formation of bunions. Biomechanical factors such as overpronation or flat feet can lead to the development of a bunion. Footwear also plays a huge role in the formation of bunions because shoes that are too tight can put pressure on the toe, and the narrow toe box of high heels can also cause bunions to form. Age can play a role in the development of bunions because the ligaments in the toes lose strength over time. Patients who are struggling with bunion pain should visit a podiatrist for a proper treatment plan that may include orthotics or surgery. 

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, and Astoria, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Patients who have developed heel spurs are often aware of the pain and discomfort they can cause. They can cause difficulty in pursuing daily exercise routines, and specific stretches may need to be incorporated that can possibly bring mild relief. A heel spur is defined as a bony growth that gradually develops and connects to the heel bone. It can develop as a result from standing on hard surfaces for most of the day, or from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Patients who are afflicted with heel spurs find it beneficial to stretch the calf muscles. This can strengthen the Achilles tendon, which connects the heel to the toes. It is practiced by standing on a step, and gently lowering one heel at a time. Additionally, relief from heel spur pain may be obtained from practicing a towel pickup. This is helpful in providing strength to the entire foot and may be more effective when a heavy object is placed at the top of the foot to increase resistance. For more information on heel spurs please consult with a podiatrist. 

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 feel free to contact our offices located in Elmhurst Jackson Heights, and Astoria, NY . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Certain physical activities may put individuals at risk of experiencing an injury. Runners in particular may be more likely to experience ankle injuries. Some of the common ankle injuries runners may experience can include sprains, Achilles tendinopathy, peroneal tendinopathy, and tibialis posterior or tibialis anterior tendinopathy. Those who have previously injured their ankles can have an increased risk of repeated injuries, especially if the affected ankle has not had a chance to fully recover. This is often due to ankle joint instability, which may also occur after an injury. Left untreated, this can cause potential issues, not only in the ankle, but also further up in the knee and hip joints. If you have sustained an ankle injury, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist. A podiatrist can determine the underlying cause and severity of your injury and can prescribe the best treatment to get you back on your feet.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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.

The term “shin splints” refers to pain along the shin bone in the lower leg that is caused by overuse. They are a common problem among athletes and people who regularly engage in activities, such as as running or jogging, that put stress on their lower limbs. Fortunately, pain from shin splints can be prevented and alleviated by stretching your legs. One simple stretch that you can do is toe curls. You can do this stretch by sitting on a chair with a towel spread out on the floor in front of you. Put your feet on the towel, and using just your toes, grab the towel and lift it up. Toe curls and many other stretches can improve the flexibility and strength of the muscles and tendons in the lower legs. If you suffer from shin splints and find that your pain is severe, chronic, or interferes with your daily activities, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist near you.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, 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.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctors to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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.

The flexibility and strength of the Achilles tendon is a necessary component in completing running and jumping activities. It is located in the back of the leg and connects the calf muscles to the heel. Many patients can experience an Achilles tendon injury, and this can happen as a result of improper warming up and cooling down after increasing the intensity of a new sport. Additionally, this type of injury may occur if there are existing heel spurs, exercising on an uneven surface, or from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Some of the symptoms that are associated with an Achilles tendon injury can consist of difficulty in flexing and pointing the affected foot, and pain that gradually worsens as the day progresses. If you think you have incurred an Achilles tendon injury, please seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can guide you toward the correct treatment techniques.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. 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 Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

There are many reasons why your feet may be hurting, ranging from small injuries to systemic conditions that affect the feet. One of the most frequent causes of foot pain is wearing improperly fitted shoes. These include shoes that are too tight or narrow, shoes with excessively high heels, and shoes that do not adequately support and protect your foot. Fixing foot pain related to footwear is often as easy as changing your shoes. Sports and exercise-related injuries to the feet are also common and will often require activity modifications to reduce foot pain. Systemic conditions, such as diabetes and arthritis, can cause foot pain. Fortunately, the effects of these conditions on the feet can be managed with proper care. If you have any type of foot pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist, who can diagnose and treat your condition. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.

The location of the band of tissue that is referred to as the plantar fascia is found on the sole of the foot. It connects the heel bone to the toes, and provides support for the arch. An injury or gradual overuse can cause a condition that is known as plantar fasciitis, and can cause difficulty in walking. Tight calf muscles or flat feet can contribute to the onset of plantar fasciitis. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this condition can consist of pain and discomfort in the morning after arising, and it can last throughout the day. Additionally, the pain may increase if the shoes that are worn do not have adequate support. This ailment can be common among people who enjoy running, and it is beneficial to refrain from participating in similar activities until the healing process is completed. If you have pain in your heel or arch, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible so they can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

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 Footcare Now. 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 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.

Ankle sprains are extremely common, affecting approximately 25,000 people each day. They occur when one or more ligaments in the ankle are overstretched or torn. This usually happens from a sudden twisting or turning of the ankle, while waking, running, jumping, dancing, or playing a sport. Immediately following the injury, it can be beneficial to follow the R.I.C.E. acronym for sprained ankle care. R.I.C.E. stands for rest, ice, compress, and elevate. Rest your ankle by not putting more weight on it than absolutely necessary. Apply ice to the ankle to reduce pain and swelling. Compressing the ankle can also help control swelling, and provides support to the area, as often ankle sprains are accompanied by ankle joint instability. Elevate the foot while resting by propping it up higher than heart level. If you suspect that you have sprained your ankle, it is strongly suggested that you see a podiatrist as soon as possible. The podiatrist will be able to diagnose the ankle sprain, determine the severity of the injury, and prescribe the appropriate treatments. 

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, 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 take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

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

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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.