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Self Care in Elderly Patients
Self care may decrease with elderly patients. This can be a result of having poor circulation, and it may be difficult to wash and dry the feet. Research has indicated that chronic medical conditions may increase in elderly patients, and this can make it difficult to practice proper foot care. There have been studies that have found improvements in blood circulation, walking ability, and muscle fatigue when good foot care is frequently performed. Flexibility and range of motion may be improved when specific foot stretches are performed. These can include pointing and flexing each foot, followed by moving them from right to left. It is beneficial to inspect the bottom of the feet for existing cuts, bruises, or sores that may have developed. This can be done by having a family member help, or by using a mirror. The feet will feel good and can positively affect the overall body when comfortable shoes are worn. If you have an elderly parent or friend that needs more information about how to properly care for their feet, please help them by scheduling an appointment with a podiatrist.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, 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.
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 office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Sports Injuries in Dancers
There are a variety of factors that can contribute to a dancer injuring their feet or ankles. Some factors are things the dancer cannot control, such as body type, age, the shape of feet and ankles, existing medical conditions or prior injuries, and the type of dance and surface they are dancing on. Other factors that can be avoided and are within the dancer’s control include not warming up/stretching/cooling down properly, wearing improper footwear, not staying hydrated or eating properly, and not building up the frequency or duration of performances and/or practices gradually. Dancing injuries can also occur if the dancer is attempting moves that are beyond their skill or ability at the time of injury. Any type of foot or ankle injury that a dancer suffers should be examined by a podiatrist as soon as possible. Trying to “muscle through” an injury that needs professional treatment can lead to further injury and may even prevent the dancer from being able to dance if the injury does not heal properly. Every dancer is different, and every injury is different. A podiatrist will create a custom treatment plan after thoroughly examining the dancer’s injury.
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.
Arthritis Can Cause Pain in the Feet and Ankles
If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
Being Properly Fitted for Walking Shoes
When it comes to finding the right walking shoe, you want to start by being properly fitted. Stores that specialize in athletic shoes will most likely have professional staff on hand to properly measure your feet and work with you as you are trying shoes on to ensure a proper fit. Make sure you try shoes on wearing the same socks that you will wear once you start using the shoes. Make sure the shoes feel great in the store, and do not assume that they will feel better once you “break them in” at home. Do not buy any shoe that has areas that rub against your feet. A podiatrist can also measure your feet and offer professional advice on the type of running shoe that is most appropriate for your particular feet. They can also create custom orthotics to address any gait abnormalities or structural issues your feet may have.
Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Getting the Right Shoe Size
There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.
- When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
- Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
- Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
- Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
- If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes
As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.
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.
Relief for Sore Feet
We all have sore feet from time to time. After all, our feet do a lot of work for us and put in long hours. There are a variety of ways to soothe sore feet at home. Generally, using a combination of treatments work best to revitalize sore feet. Warm foot baths using Epsom salts can relieve swollen, painful feet. Stretching the toes and heels can aid with foot pain by increasing flexibility and preventing cramping. Foot pain can be avoided by strengthening and resistance exercises to help keep feet strong and limber. Orthotics or arch supports can help stabilize the feet and eliminate discomfort. Simple icing of aching feet can reduce inflammation that may be caused by soreness. Wearing night splints can help with keeping feet stretched properly to avoid or control foot pain. If you have painful, achy feet or tingling or numbness in your feet, a podiatrist should be consulted and treatment prescribed.
Foot therapy is often necessary for those recovering from either foot deformities or foot injuries. If you have concerns regarding therapy, consult with Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Most Common Injuries
People who are active or athletes are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is often important to take part in physical therapy in order to quickly get back on the right track.
What to Do When Injured
Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.
During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. Physical therapy often involves:
Basic stretching and twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.
Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.
Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.
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.
Sweaty Sock Syndrome in Children
Some children develop sweaty sock syndrome which is also known as juvenile plantar dermatosis. Symptoms can include redness and scaly skin on the bottom of the feet. This condition is commonly seen in boys who are 4-8 years old, but it has also affected children who range from 3 to 15 years old. Juvenile plantar dermatosis can become chronic, sometimes lasting for about 3 years, but it generally dissipates as the child reaches puberty. Going from moist to dry conditions is thought to contribute to sweaty sock syndrome, but the actual cause is not clear. It is commonly noticed on the big toe, ball of the foot, and the heel as those places bear the most weight. The skin appears red, shiny, and smooth, but sometimes develops cracks. Home remedies suggest wearing breathable shoes, avoiding plastic or rubber footwear, and moisturizing the feet at night with petroleum jelly. If your child’s condition persists or worsens, please consult with a podiatrist who can better evaluate the problem and offer further treatment options.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, 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.
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 office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Everyday Foot Care May Help to Prevent Foot Conditions
Many people worldwide tend to neglect their feet. There are simple practices for everyday foot care that can provide comfort, softer skin, and a general feeling of wellbeing. These can include moisturizing frequently, wearing shoes that fit correctly, and trimming the toenails properly. There are specific foot conditions that may be prevented when the feet are properly taken care of. Athlete’s foot can possibly be avoided when appropriate shoes are worn in public areas. Bunions are less likely to develop when shoes that fit correctly are worn. A blister can cause discomfort, and generally forms as a result of excess friction that can come from shoes and socks that are too tight. Some people find it relaxing and soothing to pamper their feet in warm water, followed by having a foot massage. If you would like additional information about effective foot care techniques, 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 Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor 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 office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Gout Pain Can Be Managed
Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
Why Do I Have Nighttime Pain In My Feet?
There are several conditions that cause foot pain that worsens in the evening or interrupts sleep. Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition causing musculoskeletal pain, burning, tenderness, and tightness which often occurs in the feet. These symptoms can be worse in the evening due to decreased levels of cortisol. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition where the tibial nerve in your ankle becomes compressed, causing pain, numbness, tingling, or a pins and needles sensation in your feet that may flare up at night. Bony bunions that get irritated rubbing against shoes during the day are often sore at night and throb. Peripheral neuropathy (damage to nerves outside of the central nervous system) can cause painful sensations such as tingling, burning or sharp pains, which tend to intensify due to cooler nighttime temperatures. If you are experiencing any type of nighttime pain or discomfort in your feet or ankles, it is suggested that you get your condition diagnosed and treated by a podiatrist.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor 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 office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Do I Need Surgery for a Hammertoe?
A hammertoe affects one of the three middle toes of the foot, causing the toe to bend upward at its middle joint. Wearing shoes with larger foot beds, using shoe inserts or padding, toe stretching and strengthening exercises, and other lifestyle changes might be enough to manage a hammertoe. However, if those kinds of things do not help, surgery may be called for. Those with other foot problems like bunions, corns, or heel spurs may have surgery to take care of all problems at once. However, if one has poor blood circulation in their feet, any kind of foot infection, or health problems that make surgery a risky option, they are unlikely to be a good candidates. If you think you have a hammertoe and cannot find relief, consult a podiatrist for a customized treatment plan.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM of New York. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.
Symptoms
- Painful and/or difficult toe movement
- Swelling
- Joint stiffness
- Calluses/Corns
- Physical deformity
Risk Factors
- Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
- Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
- Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
- Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe
Treatment
If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.
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.
More...
A Profession That Requires Standing All Day
There are many professions where it is mandatory to stand for the majority of the day. Teachers often fall into this category, and many of them experience pain from working on their feet. It is important to choose shoes that fit correctly. These generally consist of shoes that can provide adequate arch support, and wearing these types of shoes may prevent developing plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. Some teachers find it beneficial to stretch their muscles throughout the day, and standing tall can help to improve alignment. The calf muscles can be stretched by standing on a step, and lowering the heel until a gentle pull is felt. If you would like more information about how to keep your feet healthy while standing all day, please speak to a podiatrist.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Working on Your Feet
Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.
Positive Changes
Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.
Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.
Eliminate Pain
Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.
Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.
With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.
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.
What Might Be Causing Your Child’s Heel Pain
Active, growing children that experience pain in their heels may have a condition known as Sever’s disease. The cause of this pain stems from irritation of the growth plate in the heel bone, as it has not yet completely developed and calcified. Bones in the calf grow more rapidly than the Achilles tendon, which attaches to the heel bone where the growth plate is located. This difference in growth can cause tightness and pressure in the Achilles tendon, which is often exacerbated with physical activity—particularly sports that involve running and jumping. Icing the area and refraining from activities that make the pain worse can sometimes help ease the pain. For professional pain relief, make an appointment with a podiatrist. They can offer a variety of pain management techniques, such as custom orthotics and heel raises, personalized stretching routines, footwear recommendations, and prescription pain medications.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor 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 office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?
Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.
What Are Heel Spurs?
Heel spurs, or “enthesophytes,” develop on the heel of the foot. There are two types of heel spurs associated with different heel problems. One type of heel spur is called a Plantar Spur. It is linked to a problem called “Heel Spur Syndrome” and is a bone spur that develops on the bottom of the heel, on the sole of the foot where the plantar fascia (a band of fibrous tissue that stretches along the bottom of the foot) connects to the heel bone. People who have plantar fasciitis are prone to developing these kinds of spurs, which are the bone’s response to stress from straining foot muscles and ligaments, overstretching the plantar fascia, or repeated tearing of the thin lining of the heel bone. They are also associated with age, obesity, and osteoarthritis. Heel spurs are less likely to feel painful. The other type of heel spur is a Dorsal Spur and is connected to a problem called “Insertional Achilles Tendonitis,” a condition where a bone spur develops at the back of the heel, where the Achilles tendon fits into the bone. If you notice a bony protrusion on the heel of your foot or have pain in this area, it is best to consult with a podiatrist who can diagnose the problem and recommend proper treatment.
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 Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor 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 office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
