Causes of Plantar Hyperhidrosis

Plantar hyperhidrosis affects the feet and is characterized by excessive sweating. It generally develops as a result of overactive sweat glands which may be triggered by exercises, emotions, or stress. Additionally, there may be existing medical conditions that may lead to plantar hyperhidrosis. These can consist of heart disease, hormone imbalances, and thyroid disorders. Many people who have this condition may have difficulty in completing daily activities and can often become embarrassed. If you suffer from plantar hyperhidrosis, it is recommended that you consult with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact one of our podiatrists of Footcare Now. Our doctors can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

Hyperhidrosis of the Feet

Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.

Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.

Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.

In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.

A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.

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.

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Why Is the Outside of My Ankle Swollen?

The outer part of your ankle may be swollen due to an injury or because of an underlying medical condition. Ankle injuries such as sprains, fractures, and tendinopathies can make the ankle swell. Arthritis can affect any joint in the body, including the ankle joint. When the arthritic ankle joint is inflamed, it can cause the ankle to swell. You may also notice symptoms like warmth and redness around the joint and difficulty moving the ankle. Cellulitis, a skin infection, can also make the feet and lower legs swell. If you notice swelling around your ankle, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle 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.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

  • Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
  • Ankle sprains
  • Broken ankles
  • Achilles tendinitis
  • Achilles tendon rupture
  • Stress fractures
  • Bursitis
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome
  • Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and 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.

 

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Who Is at Risk for Turf Toe?

Turf toe is an injury that results from the big toe bending, or hyper extending, too far towards the top of the foot. Turf toe is a common football injury that can frequently occur as a result of playing on artificial turf. Athletes of other sports that use hard surfaces, such as ballet dancers, basketball players, and wrestlers, are also at a higher risk of developing turf toe. The most common sign of turf toe is pain around the big toe, as well as tenderness, swelling, immobility, and stiffness in the joints. Patients who are struggling to walk due to the pain around the toe should visit a podiatrist for a proper assessment. A podiatrist will likely take an X-ray and provide treatment options depending on the severity of the injury. 

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
  • Plantar Fasciosis
  • 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 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.

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Risk Factors for Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot, called the plantar fascia. Plantar fasciitis usually leads to pain and swelling in the heel that is typically worse in the morning or after prolonged periods of standing. As a patient ages, the plantar fascia does not stretch as well. This, combined with the natural wearing of the fat pad on the heel over time, means that aging increases the risk of plantar fasciitis. However, aging is not the only factor. Those who are overweight, have diabetes, spend long periods standing, or have high arches or tight calf muscles, are also at an increased risk for developing plantar fasciitis. If you are suffering from heel or arch pain that you believe may be plantar fasciitis, it is important to consult with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.   

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. 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 one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

  • Excessive running
  • Having high arches in your feet
  • Other foot issues such as flat feet
  • Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
  • Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

  • Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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.

 

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Techniques That May Help to Prevent Falling

Falling episodes among elderly people is a common occurrence worldwide. Many patients' feet are affected, and may endure a broken foot or sprained ankle as a result of an unexpected fall. Effective prevention techniques can consist of improving lighting in the household and getting regular physical examinations. Maintaining correct medications which may affect your vision can also reduce the risk of falling. Additionally, many patients find it is beneficial to install grab bars in the shower and toilet area, as this provides the necessary stability that can help to prevent falling. If you or a loved one is concerned about how falling can affect the feet, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can help you with proper prevention techniques.

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

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How Gout Develops

An excess amount of uric acid in the body can lead to a painful condition that is known as gout. This condition is considered to be a form of arthritis and can cause difficulty in walking. It can occur as a result of elevated purine levels which may happen for several reasons including genetics, eating large amounts of shellfish, red meat, and drinking sugary beverages. Additionally, obesity may contribute significantly to the onset of gout. Many patients experience severe pain in the joints surrounding the big toe as a result of inflammation. A proper diagnosis can consist of extracting a small amount of fluid from that affected area. This is followed by viewing it under a microscope to look for uric acid crystals. Mild relief may be found when healthy foods are incorporated into your diet and from taking specific medications that can ease the pain and discomfort of gout. If you are prone to developing gout, it is strongly recommended that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat 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, and Astoria, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Diagnosing and Healing Stress Fractures

People who enjoy running and jogging often fear enduring a stress fracture. This is a hairline fracture, a tiny crack in the bone that can gradually develop as a result of repeated force against the bone. Common symptoms of a stress fracture in the foot can include dull pain, mild swelling, and weakness. These symptoms are often ignored, and can become worse if proper healing measures are not implemented. Dedicated runners will often run through the pain, and it may become unbearable to put weight on the affected foot. Stress fractures are generally diagnosed by having an X-ray taken. Once a stress fracture is detected, it is often suggested that you stop running for several weeks. If you have pain in your foot and think that it may be a stress fracture, please consult with a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment options.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

  • Runners                                  
  • People affected with Osteoporosis
  • Tennis or basketball players
  • Gymnasts
  • High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate 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 and ankle needs.

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Recovering From a Broken Toe

Broken toes occur as a result of trauma to the affected toe from situations such as stubbing the toe, dropping something heavy on it, or injuring it while playing a sport. The first step to recovering from a broken toe is recognition.  Unlike other toe injuries, a broken toe will typically cause immediate, severe pain that does not go away for a prolonged period of time. You may also sometimes hear the bone break at the time of injury. Other symptoms of a broken toe include throbbing pain, swelling, bruising, stiffness, difficulty bearing weight, or the toe sticking out in an unnatural position. If you have any of these symptoms, a podiatrist can examine your toe and order an X-ray, which is used to diagnose the broken toe bone. Treatment options for broken toes will vary based on the severity of the break, but may include stabilizing or immobilizing the broken toe, resting and icing it, wearing a cast, or surgery. 

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Throbbing pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising on the skin and toenail
  • The inability to move the toe
  • Toe appears crooked or disfigured
  • Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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.

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