Items filtered by date: September 2023

Heel pain is a common ailment that can disrupt daily life and activities. One of the primary culprits is plantar fasciitis, which occurs when the thick band of tissue known as the plantar fascia becomes inflamed or irritated. The plantar fascia is found on the bottom of the foot, and connects the heel to the toes. Plantar fasciitis often results from overuse, wearing improper footwear, or a sudden increase in physical activity. Another common cause of heel pain is Achilles tendonitis, which affects the Achilles tendon at the back of the heel, usually as a result of excessive strain or overuse. To alleviate heel pain, it is beneficial to rest and elevate the affected foot. Wearing proper footwear with adequate arch support can significantly help, in addition to wearing custom orthotic inserts. Performing stretching exercises for the calf muscles and Achilles tendon also can aid in recovery. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. If you are experiencing heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer treatment options that are right for you.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. 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.

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 office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

As we age, the risk of falls in our homes becomes a growing concern. The good news is that with a few thoughtful modifications, you can transform your living space into a safe haven for elderly family members. This can begin by decluttering walkways, ensuring clear, unobstructed paths, followed by removing tripping hazards such as loose rugs and electrical cords. Installing handrails and grab bars which can provide essential support, is critical in bathrooms and staircases. Adequate lighting is vital, and dimly lit areas can be brightened, in addition to adding nightlights which can reduce the risk of stumbling in the dark. Consider anti-slip flooring options to improve traction. In the bathroom, invest in a shower chair and non-slip mats to prevent accidents. Regular maintenance of your home's infrastructure, including checking for loose floorboards or uneven surfaces, is also important. If you would like additional information about effective methods to keep your home safe for senior family members, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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.

Footwear plays a crucial role in the overall health of your feet and musculoskeletal system. Shoes with narrow toe boxes, toe spring, and elevated heels can have profound effects on various parts of your body. Some shoes fit the ankle in a slightly plantar-flexed position, destabilizing it, and increasing the risk of ankle sprains. They also shorten posterior calf muscles and tendons, potentially leading to reduced muscle elasticity and performance. These kinds of shoes can negatively impact the knees, the pelvis, in addition to the spine. Optimal foot alignment within naturally shaped footwear, characterized by a wide toe box and a level sole, can help address these concerns. This type of footwear encourages even weight distribution, natural joint alignment, and balanced spinal curvature, promoting overall musculoskeletal health. If you would like professional help with choosing footwear that will best maintain the health of your feet and benefit the rest of your body, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss this subject further.

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.

Recurrent ankle sprains are a common issue, often resulting in chronic symptoms like pain, swelling, and instability. Reasons for this chronic problem include ligament laxity, proprioception deficits, and muscle weakness. There is a higher risk of this among younger individuals and athletes. A thorough evaluation, involving MRIs, diagnosis, and assessment of the severity of ankle injuries should be done to distinguish between functional and mechanical instability. Treatment options range from conservative methods like rest and elevation of the ankle, neuromuscular training, and bracing, to surgical interventions. If you find that you are spraining your ankle repeatedly, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to evaluate your ankle and determine the best way to manage this for the best possible outcome.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. 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.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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.