Research has indicated that the foot condition known as Morton’s neuroma is generally simple to diagnose. The common symptoms that many people experience with this ailment can include a tingling sensation between the second and third toes, or the fourth and fifth toes. It may begin after wearing specific types of shoes, or from walking or standing for an extended period of time. Many people can develop this condition from wearing high heels. This can be a result of a lack of adequate space for the toes to move freely in. A clicking feeling and sound may be felt in the ball of the foot, and it can feel uncomfortable. Many people often equate this feeling with the sensation of stepping on a marble, or having an out of place seam from a sock. Additionally, the toes can separate with a large Morton’s neuroma, and medical attention is needed. The toes may become numb, and it can be quite painful to walk. If you have any of these symptoms, it is advised that you place yourself under the care of a podiatrist who can use various conservative methods, or possibly even perform surgery, to treat Morton’s neuroma. 

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.

When excess fluid gathers in the tissues of your feet and ankles and causes swelling, it is known as edema. Edema is an unpleasant side effect most women experience during pregnancy, becoming quite uncomfortable in the third trimester. Edema during pregnancy is caused by a number of factors. First, when a woman is pregnant, their body retains more fluids. Also, their growing uterus places pressure on veins in the lower extremities, which slows the rate of blood returning back to the heart. This can cause blood and fluid to pool in the tissues of their feet and ankles. Pregnant women dealing with edema would do well to make an appointment with a podiatrist. With exercise recommendations, compression stockings, custom orthotics, and other foot care, a podiatrist can be very helpful to any pregnant woman who is struggling with edema. 

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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.

Effective everyday foot care begins with washing and drying the feet thoroughly. This can be followed by applying a good moisturizer which may help to prevent cracked heels and skin. There are many people who perform a weekly foot soak that may aid in keeping the cuticles soft. When the toenails are trimmed properly, foot conditions like ingrown toenails can possibly be prevented. This is done by trimming the toenails straight across to allow the toenails to grow up instead of into the surrounding skin. When gentle foot stretches are incorporated into your daily routine the benefits can reach the overall body. Additionally, there are specific toe stretches that can be performed. This is accomplished by sitting on the floor and wrapping a towel around the toes and gently pulling them toward you. All of these practices are designed to help the feet feel better. If you would like additional information on how to practice everyday foot care, please consult with a podiatrist. 

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.

Custom orthotics are shoe or heel inserts prescribed by a doctor to help with various foot problems. Orthotics are used to correct foot deformities, help feet or ankles function better, and reduce risk of injury. Podiatrists can recommend custom orthotics as part of treatment plans for patients suffering from arthritis, bunions, flat feet or high arches, hammertoes, heel spurs, and plantar fasciitis. The type of material used for the orthotic determines how stiff it is. Rigid orthotics are usually made of a hard plastic or carbon fiber and provide more stability and support but may be less comfortable than softer orthotics. Softer orthotics are more flexible because they bend with your feet. Each type is appropriate for different foot conditions. Rigid orthotics are good for those who have plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis. This type of orthotic takes more time to adjust to but over time becomes more comfortable. Soft orthotics are usually made of EVA (a more rubber-like material) and fit more closely against the foot than rigid orthotics. They are used for those who have heel pain as they mold to hurt areas and cushion sore spots. Soft orthotics are good for those who participate in high impact sports where the feet move quickly. Consulting with a podiatrist takes the decision of which type of orthotic is best for you out of your hands as they are experts in diagnosing foot problems and offering treatment options that fit your unique needs.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, 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 Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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.

Injuries to your ankle such as sprains, strains, and breaks may feel similar, but are different. Sprains occur when there is an unnatural stretch or tear in the ligament(s) that support and bind the ankle. There may be an audible pop when you sprain your ankle, and there will be varying degrees of pain, bruising, swelling, and inflammation, and even a deformity, depending on the severity of the sprain. It may be difficult or even impossible to walk on the affected foot. Strains occur when tendons or muscles around the ankle are stretched or pulled repetitively or excessively. The symptoms of an ankle strain are similar, and may also include cramping and muscle spasms. Breaks are chips, fractures, or complete breaks in one or more of the bones in your ankle. Walking on a broken ankle may be impossible. Regardless of which injury has occurred, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist right away to be properly diagnosed and treated.

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.

Many people complain about pain in the heel of their foot at some point in their lives. Plantar fasciitis, or inflammation of the plantar fascia, is one of the most common causes of this. The plantar fascia is the broad band of connective tissue running along the bottom of the foot that joins the heel bone to the toes, provides support for the arch of the foot, acts as a shock absorber, and bears the body’s weight. Plantar fasciitis develops when this band of tissue becomes irritated, torn, or inflamed. This condition can be extremely painful, especially with the day’s first steps. The pain at the bottom of the heel, and sometimes the midfoot area, can be sharp and stabbing or dull and achy. Once a person starts walking, the pain usually reduces but it may come on again after prolonged periods on one’s feet or when standing after sitting for a while. While causes of plantar fasciitis are not clear, research shows that heel spurs can result from plantar fasciitis, which can cause pain. This ailment is common among athletes, those who are on their feet a lot, and those who are obese. If you are suffering with heel pain, it is suggested you see a podiatrist who can make a proper diagnosis and lead you in 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.

A calcium deposit which may result in a heel spur can occur from inflammation and tiny tears in the plantar fascia. This is the band of tissue that runs along the sole of the foot, and connects the heel to the toes.  A heel spur can cause severe pain and discomfort, despite its small size. It can develop from participating in running and jumping activities, and people who are overweight are at an increased risk to get heel spurs. A common symptom many patients have can include stabbing heel pain, which may be worse upon arising in the morning. Mild relief may be found when custom made orthotics are worn, and this may help to alleviate some of the pressure and pain that often accompanies Sever's disease. In severe cases, surgery may be an option to consider that can permanently remove the heel spur. If you have developed this ailment, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

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.

Anyone who runs for exercise or sports, such as track and soccer, knows that injury to their feet and ankles are bound to occur at some point. The most common injuries happen as a result of overuse. Among them are plantar fasciitis (heel pain), Achilles tendonitis (back of the ankle pain), sesamoiditis (pain at the base of the toes), and stress fractures (frequently in the metatarsal bones). By far, the most common of these is plantar fasciitis, caused by inflammation of the band of tissue that holds up the arch on the foot. Some relief can be provided by stretching exercises, resting and icing the area, and finding shoes with better arch support. Pain in the back of the heel, generally caused by an inflamed Achilles tendon, is a common sign of overuse, especially among beginners who run too far, too fast. Rest, ice, compression and elevation may help, along with stretching exercises, and possibly orthotics. Pain, burning, and swelling in the ball of the foot can be caused by a pinched nerve or inflammation in the metatarsal joints. Orthotics and different running shoes can help. Stress fractures are difficult to detect and slow to heal, but cause ongoing discomfort. For help with any of these common injuries, it is best to consult with a podiatrist who can do a thorough examination and provide proper treatment options depending on the diagnosis.

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.