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Tuesday, 22 April 2025 00:00

Types of Toe Fractures

Toe fractures usually result from direct trauma, such as stubbing the toe or dropping something on the foot. The most frequently affected areas are the lesser toes, especially the part of the toe closest to the rest of the foot. Types of toe fractures include simple fractures, where the bone remains intact under the skin, and compound fractures, where the bone breaks through the skin and may lead to infection. Avulsion fractures occur when a tendon or ligament pulls a piece of bone away, while comminuted fractures involve the bone shattering into multiple fragments. Intra-articular fractures extend into the joint and may affect long-term toe mobility, and dislocation fractures combine a bone break with joint misalignment. A podiatrist can assess the injury using imaging such as X-rays to determine the type of fracture and the degree of bone displacement. Treatment may involve immobilization with a cast or walking boot, or in more severe cases, surgery to realign and secure the bones. If you have broken or severely bruised your toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Swelling
  • Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
  • Stiffness
  • Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about What to Know About a Broken Toe

Intoeing and out-toeing are common walking patterns seen in children, where the feet point inward or outward instead of straight ahead. These patterns are usually part of normal development and often improve with time. In-toeing may result from femoral anteversion, a condition where the thigh bone has increased inward rotation. It can also be caused by internal tibial torsion, where the shin bone twists inward, or by a curved foot known as metatarsus adductus. Out-toeing occurs when the feet angle away from the body and may be linked to external rotation of the hips or legs. In most cases, these conditions do not cause pain and do not interfere with normal activity. If your child has symptoms of either ailment, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can monitor these conditions.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

  • Make sure their shoes fit properly
  • Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
  • Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
  • Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
  • Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
  • Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
  • Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
  • Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about What to Do to Keep Your Child’s Feet Healthy
Tuesday, 08 April 2025 00:00

Managing a Fungal Toenail Infection

Fungal toenail infections usually begin at the tip or sides of the toenail and may cause discoloration, thickening, and crumbling of the nail surface. In some cases, the nail may lift from the nail bed or become painful if the surrounding skin becomes inflamed. While fungal toenail infections are common, they can be difficult to clear without medical treatment. A podiatrist can examine the toenail and confirm the infection through a laboratory test. Based on the findings, oral antifungal medication may be prescribed, often requiring several months of consistent use. These medications target the infection from within and support the regrowth of healthy nail tissue. Because oral antifungals can affect liver function, a podiatrist may request blood tests before and during treatment. If the infection is severe and the nail is extensively damaged, surgery to remove part or all of the nail might be recommended. This can help eliminate the infection and allow a clear nail to grow back. If you believe you have a toenail infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

  • Warped or oddly shaped nails
  • Yellowish nails
  • Loose/separated nail
  • Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
  • Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

Read more about Treating Toenail Fungus

Foot arthritis can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, making daily activities more challenging. It often develops from wear and tear on the joints, inflammation, or conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Regular foot exercises can help improve flexibility, reduce discomfort, and strengthen the surrounding muscles. The plantar fascia stretch involves gently pulling the toes back to stretch the bottom of the foot, easing tension and improving movement. A calf stretch helps loosen the Achilles tendon and reduce strain on the heel. Rolling a golf ball under the foot massages the plantar fascia, promoting circulation and relieving tightness. Additionally, marble pick-ups strengthen the toes by encouraging small movements that improve coordination and flexibility. If you have arthritis that is affecting your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you find relief, and also recommend additional foot stretches.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

  • Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
  • Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
  • Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Sunday, 30 March 2025 00:00

Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!

After toenail removal surgery, monitoring for infection is essential to ensure proper healing. Infection can develop when bacteria enter the exposed nail bed, often due to poor wound care, excessive moisture, or an underlying medical condition. Risk factors include diabetes, compromised immunity, and inadequate post-surgical hygiene. Signs of infection may include increased redness, swelling, warmth, or throbbing pain around the surgical site. Pus drainage, foul odor, and delayed healing may also indicate an infection. Fever or chills could suggest a more serious complication requiring medical attention. Keeping the area clean and dry, following post-operative care instructions, and avoiding tight footwear can reduce the risk of infection. If you have had this type of foot surgery and an infection has developed, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to find relief and guide you on post surgery care essentials.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM of New York. Our doctor 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 office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 18 March 2025 00:00

Foot and Ankle Injuries in Ballet

Ballet places significant stress on the feet and ankles, leading to both acute traumatic injuries and overuse injuries. Acute injuries occur suddenly and may include sprains, fractures, or tendon tears from jumps, pointe work, or improper landings. These injuries often result in swelling, pain, and difficulty bearing weight. Overuse injuries develop gradually due to repetitive movements and excessive strain on the foot structures. Common conditions include stress fractures, Achilles tendonitis, and plantar fasciitis, which cause persistent discomfort and limit mobility. Weakness, improper technique, and wearing inadequate footwear can increase the risk of injury. Strengthening exercises, proper warm-ups, and rest periods help protect the feet and ankles from excessive strain. Maintaining strong, flexible muscles and using proper form can enhance performance while reducing the likelihood of injuries. It is suggested that you consult a podiatrist if you have endured a foot injury from ballet. This type of doctor can offer appropriate relief and treatment solutions.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Plantar Fasciosis
  • Achilles Tendinitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Sports Related Foot And Ankle Injuries

Breaking in new pointe shoes properly is essential for comfort, support, and performance. The first step is to identify the natural break in the arch by gently pressing the shoe to see where it bends most naturally. Once the natural break is found, carefully bending the shank at that point helps the shoe conform to the foot’s shape. Wearing the shoe and gradually working through movements allows the heat and moisture from the foot to mold the break further. Molding the shoe by lightly massaging the arch and wings helps soften the material without weakening its structure. Softening the box can be done by gently pressing on it with the hands or using controlled movements to make it more flexible. A well-broken-in shoe provides better support, reduces discomfort, and enhances overall performance. If you have foot pain from wearing any type of new shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you further on how to properly break in shoes.

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 Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor 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 office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Tuesday, 04 March 2025 00:00

Managing Gout

Gout is a type of arthritis that causes sudden, intense pain, typically in the big toe. It occurs when uric acid builds up in the body, forming crystals in the joints. This leads to swelling, redness, and extreme tenderness. Gout attacks often come on suddenly and can cause the affected joint to feel hot, swollen, and stiff, making even the slightest touch unbearable. A podiatrist can help manage gout by assessing the severity of the attack and offering treatment to reduce pain and inflammation. This type of doctor may recommend anti-inflammatory medication to ease the symptoms. Lifestyle changes, like adjusting diet and managing weight, are also essential in preventing future flare-ups. In some cases, a podiatrist might suggest custom orthotics to provide relief while walking. If you experience recurring pain or have swelling in your toe joints, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat gout.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor 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 office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Gout

If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.

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