Reasons to Visit a Podiatrist

Optimal foot health is important for maintaining overall well-being, and a podiatrist is instrumental in achieving this goal. This type of foot specialist will conduct a comprehensive review of your medical history, followed by a thorough examination to diagnose the cause of your foot, toe, or ankle problems. A podiatrist can then offer a range of treatment options, which in some cases may include surgical intervention. In addition to treating more common foot ailments, like ingrown toenails or sprained ankles, many podiatrists also specialize in managing sports-related injuries, diabetic wound care, and surgery. With their expertise in ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests such as X-rays and ultrasounds, podiatrists ensure accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans. Podiatrists can prescribe medications for pain management, as well as provide advice for ongoing or preventive care. Whether you're dealing with foot pain, or injury, or seeking preventive care, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to 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 a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

  • Physical therapy
  • Drugs
  • Orthotic inserts or soles
  • Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

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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Foot Care for Diabetics

Promoting foot care among diabetes patients is imperative for preventing complications. Podiatrists are pivotal in educating patients on proper foot care practices. Emphasizing an understanding of how diabetes affects the feet, encouraging patients to monitor blood glucose, doing daily foot inspections, moisturizing, and wearing proper footwear helps prevent neuropathy-related injuries. Regular podiatric check-ups can detect neuropathy early, reducing the risk of foot ulcers. Podiatrists also educate on managing arthropathy, emphasizing foot alignment and orthotic use. Vasculopathy awareness involves promoting foot warmth and avoiding prolonged pressure to prevent ischemic ulcers. Patients must understand the importance of prompt wound care to prevent infections and amputations. Also, inspiring regular exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle supports overall foot health. If you are a diabetic and want to make sure your feet remain as healthy as possible, it is strongly suggested that you make regular appointments with a podiatrist for the education and treatment you need.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other 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.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

  • Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
  • Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
  • Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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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A Closer Look at Plantar Fibroma

A Plantar fibroma is a benign growth that develops on the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel to the toes. This condition typically presents as a firm nodule or lump in the arch or ball of the foot, causing discomfort and pain with weight-bearing activities. The exact cause of plantar fibromas remains uncertain, but factors such as trauma, inflammation, or genetic predisposition may contribute to their development. Plantar fibromas can vary in size and may gradually increase in size over time, potentially interfering with normal foot function and mobility. While plantar fibromas are non-cancerous and generally harmless, they can cause significant discomfort and impact daily activities if left untreated. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove the fibroma and restore foot function. If you have noticed a lump or nodule on the bottom of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat a plantar fibroma or whatever else might be going on.

A plantar fibroma may 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.

Plantar Fibroma

A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.

What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?

While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.

What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?

There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.

Treatment and Prevention

A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:

  • Steroid injections
  • Orthotics
  • Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump 

Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.

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.

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Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked

Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

What Is an Ingrown Toenail?

Ingrown toenails are a common and often painful foot condition that occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. Redness, swelling, and tenderness often accompany an ingrown toenail, which can cause discomfort when walking. The big toe is the most common site for ingrown toenails to appear. Possible causes include improper nail trimming, wearing tight shoes, or sustaining foot injuries. People with naturally curved or thick nails can be more prone to ingrown toenails. Conservative treatments for an ingrown toenail include warm foot soaks and proper nail care, while surgical approaches may be used in more severe cases. Podiatrists specialize in treating ingrown toenails. If you are suffering from an ingrown toenail, it is suggested you make an appointment with this type of doctor who offers treatment options. 

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. 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 occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

  • Bacterial infections
  • Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
  • Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
  • Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
  • Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right 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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Dealing With Athlete’s Foot

Athlete's foot, or tinea pedis, is a common fungal infection. The fungi thrive in warm, moist places, such as locker rooms and communal showers. Symptoms of athlete's foot include intense itching, cracked skin, blistering, and redness, typically concentrated between the toes or on the soles of the feet. Diagnosing athlete's foot is usually straightforward, involving a thorough examination and discussion of lifestyle habits and footwear. Treatment requires patience, with antifungal medications often taking weeks to months for symptoms to fully resolve. Recurrence is common without proper foot care and preventative measures. To manage and prevent athlete's foot, it's essential to keep feet clean and dry, wear moisture-wicking socks and breathable shoes, and avoid walking barefoot in public areas. If you have a persistent case of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for personalized treatment and guidance.  

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now.  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

  • Hydrate your feet by using lotion
  • Exfoliate
  • Buff off nails
  • Use of anti-fungal products
  • Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are 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 and ankle needs.

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Wearing the Right Shoes for Flat Feet

Wearing appropriate footwear is paramount for individuals with flat feet to maintain comfort, stability, and overall foot health. Flat feet, a common condition where the arches of the feet collapse, can lead to various issues such as overpronation, arch pain, and discomfort while walking or standing. Proper shoes for flat feet offer vital support and alignment, helping distribute weight evenly across the feet and reducing strain on ligaments and muscles. Shoes with adequate arch support and cushioning may help to alleviate discomfort and prevent the progression of foot-related problems associated with flat feet. Additionally, supportive footwear can promote proper alignment of the lower body, reducing the risk of related issues such as ankle and knee pain. By choosing shoes designed specifically for flat feet and prioritizing comfort and support, individuals can reduce discomfort, enhance stability, and maintain an active lifestyle with confidence and ease. If you have flat feet and are interested in purchasing shoes that can bring relief and offer adequate support, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

  • Pain around the heel or arch area
  • Trouble standing on the tip toe
  • Swelling around the inside of the ankle
  • Flat look to one or both feet
  • Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of 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.

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Understanding Haglund’s Deformity

Haglund's deformity, an abnormality affecting the foot bone and soft tissues, can be recognized by a bony growth at the back of the heel, where the Achilles tendon is located. This enlargement, often referred to as a pump bump, can result in irritation of the adjacent soft tissue when it rubs against rigid shoes. Haglund’s deformity can lead to bursitis, a painful inflammation of the fluid-filled sac between the tendon and the bone. While this deformity can develop in anyone, it is most commonly observed in individuals who wear stiff, closed-heel shoes, particularly pump-style high heels. Several risk factors increase susceptibility to Haglund's deformity, including a high foot arch, a tight Achilles tendon, or a tendency to walk on the outside of the heel. Symptoms can include a noticeable bony bump on the back of the heel, severe pain where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel, swelling in the bursa, and redness near the inflamed tissue. If you suspect you have Haglund's deformity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and suggested treatment options. 

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 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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Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

The Important Role of Daily Foot Care

In the bustle of daily life, the significance of consistent foot care often escapes notice. The feet carry you through each day and deserve thoughtful care to maintain overall well-being. Practicing everyday foot care is not just a luxury, but a necessity. Regular inspection and cleansing can help to prevent issues such as fungal infections and calluses from escalating. Moisturizing keeps the skin supple and prevents painful cracks. Trimming nails properly helps evade ingrown toenails, a common source of discomfort. Choosing comfortable, supportive footwear is paramount in preventing long-term structural problems and pain. Additionally, incorporating simple exercises and stretches into daily routines enhances foot strength and flexibility. By prioritizing daily foot care, individuals invest in their mobility, comfort, and overall health. If you experience any type of foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can conduct an exam and offer both a diagnosis and treatment.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. 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.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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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