Heel pain is a frequent concern, often associated with conditions such as plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition that occurs when the thick band of tissue under your foot, known as the plantar fascia, becomes inflamed. This commonly results from daily activities like running, standing for long periods, or wearing improper shoes. Podiatrists, or foot doctors, can help treat plantar fasciitis and relieve pain in multiple ways. Podiatrists may recommend specific stretching exercises to release tightness in the plantar fascia or they may customize orthotic inserts to support the foot. In some cases, they may suggest anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections aiming to reduce pain and inflammation. With proper guidance from a podiatrist, heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis can become more controlled. If you are suffering with heel pain or conditions such as plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to find a treatment best fit for your specific condition.

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.

Dancing, an expression of rhythm and grace, can exhilarate both body and soul. However, the physical demands of dancing can also lead to a range of foot and ankle injuries. From sprained ankles to stress fractures, dancers often face the risk of acute injuries due to sudden movements or improper technique. Landing incorrectly from jumps or executing complex footwork can strain ligaments and muscles, resulting in sprains or strains. Overuse injuries such as tendonitis or stress fractures may develop from repetitive movements, especially in styles that involve high-impact or intense training regimens. Additionally, wearing inadequate footwear or dancing on hard surfaces can exacerbate these risks. Despite these challenges, dancers can mitigate injury risks through proper warm-up routines, technique refinement, cross-training for strength and flexibility, and wearing supportive footwear. If you have endured a foot or ankle injury from dancing, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can safely treat these types of injuries, in addition to providing you with information on how to protect your feet while dancing.

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.

A stubbed toe might seem like a minor inconvenience, but the pain it inflicts can be surprisingly intense. Stubbing your toe ranges from simple bruises to fractures, each with its own level of severity and potential complications. When you stub your toe, you are essentially subjecting it to sudden trauma. Common scenarios include accidentally ramming your toe into furniture or catching it on objects. Despite its seemingly innocuous nature, the impact can lead to a variety of injuries. Determining the extent of a stubbed toe injury is not always straightforward. Symptoms like intense pain, swelling, and difficulty while walking can accompany anything from a minor bruise to a fracture. The lack of immediate clarity underscores the importance of seeking professional help, particularly from a podiatrist. Bone bruises, strains, sprains, and toenail injuries are common consequences of stubbing a toe, each requiring different forms of treatment and management. Severe pain, swelling, visible deformities, or signs of infection warrant immediate attention. If you are suffering from toe pain, it is suggested that you make an immediate appointment with a podiatrist. 

Toe pain can 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.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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.

As people age, their feet bear the brunt of a lifetime of activity, an accumulation of wear and tear that can lead to various problems. Women over 50 are particularly prone to foot issues as they age. These are caused by hormonal changes, decreased bone density, and the effects of wearing high heels. The soft tissues in the feet lose elasticity over time, making older adults more susceptible to conditions like Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis. Among the foot problems associated with aging are stress fractures, plantar fasciitis, and bunions, flat feet, and osteoarthritis, which can hinder mobility and cause discomfort, are other ailments common among seniors. While simple measures like wearing supportive shoes and engaging in low-impact exercises can alleviate symptoms, persistent foot pain necessitates professional attention from a podiatrist, or a foot and ankle specialist, to prevent further complications. If you are an older adult who is experiencing foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and 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.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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.

Arthritis, whether rheumatoid or osteoarthritis, can significantly impair one's quality of life, particularly when it affects the feet. Constant foot pain can hinder mobility, limit activities, and lead to physical and emotional challenges. However, custom-made orthotics can help those grappling with arthritis-related foot discomfort. Orthotics are tailor-made shoe inserts designed to alleviate pressure on specific areas of the foot, redistributing weight and promoting proper alignment. By providing support and cushioning, orthotics reduce pain and discomfort, allowing individuals to move more freely and engage in daily activities. Moreover, orthotics can help reduce the need for pain medication, offering a non-invasive alternative for managing arthritis symptoms. By improving gait and reducing strain on joints, orthotics can also play a significant role in preventing the progression of arthritis, helping individuals maintain their mobility and independence for longer. If you suffer from arthritic symptoms of the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for relief options.

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.

Sever's disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a common childhood condition characterized by heel pain caused by inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone. It typically affects physically active children and adolescents, particularly those experiencing growth spurts during puberty. The condition occurs due to repetitive stress or tension on the growth plate and can be seen in active children involved in sports with running or jumping. Radiographic tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans, may be conducted to diagnose Sever's disease, ruling out other potential causes of heel pain and assessing the extent of inflammation or bone changes. If your child complains of heel pain, or if you notice them limping, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to help manage this condition.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their 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 injuries.

Neuropathy, a condition often associated with diabetes but not exclusive to it, refers to nerve damage that can result in loss of sensation in the feet. Non-diabetic foot wounds stemming from neuropathy occur due to the inability to perceive pain or pressure, leading to unnoticed injuries that can worsen into ulcers. Without proper sensation, individuals may continue walking on injured feet, exacerbating the wounds. Podiatrists play an important role in managing these ulcers by conducting thorough assessments to determine the extent of damage, implementing preventive measures to alleviate pressure on affected areas, and initiating treatment plans tailored to individual needs. This may involve wound care, infection management, offloading techniques to reduce pressure on the wound site, and patient education on foot care practices to prevent further complications. If you have a foot wound of any type, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for immediate treatment.

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.

Bunions are bony protrusions that form at the base of the big toe, causing it to lean inward toward the other toes. Bunions often result from a combination of genetic factors, wearing improper footwear, and structural issues in the foot. As the bunion develops, it can lead to pain, inflammation, and difficulty with shoe wear. In severe cases, complications such as bursitis, hammertoes, or even arthritis may arise due to the altered foot mechanics. If you have a bunion that is causing significant discomfort and interfering with your daily activities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer you various treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunions, 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.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• 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.