Gout is an arthritis that can cause sudden, severe pain and inflammation in the foot often affecting the instep and ankle areas. This condition occurs due to a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints that may lead to intense pain, swelling, and redness. The instep, or the top of the foot, is particularly susceptible to gout attacks, while the ankle may also be affected causing discomfort and restricted movement. Risk factors for developing gout include a diet high in purines, which are found in red meat and certain seafood, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and genetic predisposition. If you have gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage 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.

Negative pressure therapy, or vacuum-assisted closure, is an effective treatment for diabetic foot wounds, promoting faster healing and reducing complications. This method involves applying a controlled negative pressure to the wound through a sealed dressing connected to a vacuum pump. This pressure helps to remove excess fluid, reduce swelling, and enhance blood flow to the area, which accelerates tissue repair. Additionally, this type of therapy helps to draw the wound edges together, facilitating faster closure and reducing the risk of infection. For diabetic patients, who often face challenges with wound healing due to compromised circulation and neuropathy, negative pressure therapy can be a game-changer. If you have a diabetic foot wound, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to determine if this therapy is suitable for your specific wound.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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.

Wearing high heels can lead to several negative side effects affecting the feet. The elevated position of the heel places excessive pressure on the toes and the balls of the feet, often causing pain and discomfort. This pressure can result in conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, and calluses. Additionally, the unnatural foot position associated with high heels disrupts proper foot alignment, leading to potential issues with balance and gait. Over time, wearing high heels can contribute to joint and muscle strain, leading to chronic pain in the feet, knees, and lower back. To minimize these effects, it is important to balance high-heel wear with comfortable, supportive footwear and practice foot care routines that alleviate pressure and promote foot health. If you have developed a foot condition from frequently wearing high heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief strategies.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, 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.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads 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.

Heel pain can stem from various causes, each requiring a different approach for relief. One common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, where inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot leads to sharp heel pain. Another possibility is Achilles tendinitis, which affects the tendon that connects the calf muscle to the heel. Stress fractures or heel spurs can also contribute to discomfort. Additionally, poor footwear, excessive physical activity, and obesity can increase heel pain. Finding relief often involves a combination of strategies. Resting the foot and taking mild pain relievers can reduce inflammation. Stretching exercises for the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia can improve flexibility. Supportive footwear and orthotic inserts can provide additional comfort. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine the cause and treat it accordingly.

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.

When selecting walking shoes, comfort and support are key factors that contribute to foot health. It is important to choose shoes that fit well from the start, as poorly fitting shoes can lead to issues such as plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendinitis. Look for walking shoes with a flexible sole that allows for natural foot movement, and avoid those with overly thick heels that can disrupt your stride. Shopping for shoes later in the day, when your feet are slightly swollen, can help ensure a better fit. Additionally, wearing the socks you plan to walk in while trying on shoes can make a difference in comfort. Remember to leave some space for your toes to move, as tight shoes can lead to blisters and other problems. If you experience foot pain after walking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to see if your footwear is part of the problem.

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

• Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
• Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
• Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
• Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
• Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

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.

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. Common causes include improper nail trimming, where nails are cut too short or rounded, leading to the nail growing into the skin. Tight or ill-fitting shoes can also press the toenail into the skin, making the problem worse. Genetic factors and trauma to the toenail, such as stubbing or injury, may contribute to the condition as well. Preventing ingrown toenails involves several strategies. First, trim toenails straight across without rounding the edges, and avoid cutting them too short. Wearing well-fitting shoes with enough toe room can reduce pressure on the toenails. Maintaining good foot hygiene helps prevent infections if an ingrown toenail does occur. If symptoms persist or an infection develops, it's suggested you contact a podiatrist for appropriate treatment and to avoid complications.

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

A matrixectomy is a surgical procedure that treats severe toenail issues by removing part or all of the nail matrix, the tissue responsible for nail growth. This type of foot surgery is often recommended for persistent toenail conditions like ingrown toenails or fungal infections that do not respond to conservative treatment. A complete matrixectomy involves the removal of the entire nail matrix, which prevents any future nail growth and can be necessary for severe or recurrent conditions. In contrast, a partial matrixectomy removes only a portion of the nail matrix, preserving some nail growth while addressing localized problems. Both approaches aim to alleviate pain and prevent further complications, with the choice between them depending on the specific condition and its severity. If your toenail is causing chronic discomfort and pain, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can determine if this type of foot surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Footcare Now. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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.

Children's feet are a marvel of growth and transformation, evolving from soft cartilage to fully ossified bones by around 18 years of age. In those first few delicate months, the right footwear is extremely important. Ill-fitting shoes can distort a child’s developing feet, impacting their comfort and health. Socks and shoes should never be tight but should allow room for natural growth and movement. As a child’s nerve endings develop, they may not feel discomfort from tight footwear, emphasizing the importance of proper fit and comfort checks. Each child's feet are unique, so hand-me-down shoes might not be suitable. Trim toenails straight across to prevent painful ingrown nails. Prioritizing your child’s foot health now sets a foundation for their active future. For expert guidance on nurturing your child's feet, it’s suggested you contact a podiatrist to monitor their growth stage and needs.

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.