In-toeing, often called pigeon toes, is a common condition where the feet turn inward when walking or running. It frequently appears in young children and, in most cases, corrects itself as they grow. The cause can vary from how the bones in the legs or feet develop to tightness in the hips. While many children with in-toeing have no pain or difficulty, some may trip more often or feel discomfort after activity. Most cases improve naturally without intervention, but there are instances where treatment may be necessary. If in-toeing is severe, causing pain, or not improving over time, a podiatrist can evaluate whether corrective measures such as stretching exercises, braces, or specialized footwear are needed. Addressing concerns early can help ensure proper foot alignment and prevent future issues. If you have concerns about your child’s walking pattern, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, 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.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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.

An ingrown toenail might seem like a small problem, but it can cause big discomfort. When the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, it can lead to redness, swelling, pain, and even infection. Wearing tight shoes, improper nail trimming, and injuries often make the problem worse. While home remedies may provide temporary relief, persistent or painful ingrown toenails need professional care. A podiatrist can safely remove the problem portion of the nail, easing your pain and helping to prevent future issues. In some cases, they may recommend a simple procedure to stop the nail from growing back improperly. If you have an ingrown toenail that will not heal or keeps coming back, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide the expert care you need.

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.

If you wake up and feel a sharp pain in your heel when you take your first steps, you are not alone. This is one of the telltale signs of plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain. But why does it hurt most in the morning? While you sleep, your foot relaxes and the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of your foot, tightens. When you stand up, the tissue stretches suddenly, causing pain. Plantar fasciitis can happen to anyone, but it is especially common if you spend a lot of time on your feet, have flat feet or high arches, or wear shoes that lack adequate support. The good news is that early treatment can make a big difference. Simple stretches, better footwear, and custom orthotics can help. If heel pain is slowing you down, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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.

Although gout is often associated with men, it also affects women, particularly after menopause. Estrogen helps regulate uric acid levels, so its decline increases the risk of developing gout. The condition occurs when uric acid builds up in the bloodstream, forming painful crystals in the joints, including in the big toe. Risk factors include a diet high in purines, obesity, kidney disease, and certain medications that affect uric acid levels. Women with gout often experience symptoms in the toes, ankles, and knees, leading to swelling, redness, and severe pain. If left untreated, gout can cause joint damage and chronic pain, affecting mobility and quality of life. If you have pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. 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 form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of 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 care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on your feet, particularly between the toes. It often causes itching, redness, peeling, and sometimes blisters. The condition can be painful and may create a burning or stinging sensation, especially when walking or wearing shoes. The fungus thrives in warm, moist environments, making public showers, locker rooms, and tight shoes common sources of infection. Athlete's foot is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact or by touching contaminated surfaces. It can remain contagious as long as the fungus is present, often lasting several weeks, if untreated. A podiatrist can diagnose athlete's foot through a physical examination and may take a sample of the skin to identify the fungus. Treatment typically involves antifungal creams, sprays, or oral medication. Keeping feet clean, dry, and well-ventilated can help prevent reinfection. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for the right treatment.

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.

Morton’s neuroma is a condition that causes pain in the ball of the foot, typically between the third and fourth toes. It occurs when the tissue around a nerve becomes thickened, leading to irritation and discomfort. The exact cause of Morton’s neuroma is not always clear, but it is commonly linked to repetitive stress or pressure on the foot, such as from wearing tight shoes or engaging in high-impact activities. Symptoms often include sharp, burning pain, a feeling of something being stuck in the shoe, and numbness in the affected toes. The pain may worsen when walking or standing for long periods. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on. 

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Footcare Now. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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.

Foot pain while walking can be caused by several underlying conditions that affect mobility and comfort. One of the most common causes is plantar fasciitis, which involves inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, causing heel pain. Tarsal tunnel syndrome, resulting from compression of a nerve in the ankle, can lead to shooting pain or numbness in the foot. Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction occurs when the tendon that supports the arch weakens, causing pain in the inner ankle and foot. Bunions, characterized by a bony bump at the base of the big toe, can cause discomfort during walking. Additionally, hammertoe, a condition where the toes bend abnormally, can lead to pain in the toes and the ball of the foot. If you have pain while walking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat the foot condition that is causing it.

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.

Ankle and foot arthropathies refer to joint diseases affecting the feet and ankles, often caused by arthritis, autoimmune conditions, or degenerative wear over time. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis are common culprits, leading to inflammation, stiffness, and pain in the affected joints. These conditions can develop due to aging, past injuries, repetitive stress, or genetic predisposition. Symptoms include swelling, stiffness, reduced range of motion, and discomfort while walking or standing. Over time, untreated arthropathies can lead to joint deformities and difficulty with mobility. Managing symptoms involves lifestyle modifications, wearing supportive footwear, targeted exercises, and sometimes orthotics to relieve pressure on the joints. In more severe cases, medication or surgical intervention may be necessary. Early diagnosis can slow progression and improve quality of life. If joint pain in your feet or ankles persists, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, 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.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method 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.