Items filtered by date: April 2024

Foot stress fractures are a common yet often overlooked injury that can sideline individuals from their daily activities. These fractures occur when repetitive stress on the bones surpasses their ability to repair themselves, resulting in tiny cracks or breaks. Several factors contribute to the development of foot stress fractures, including overuse, sudden increases in physical activity, improper footwear, and biomechanical abnormalities. Runners, dancers, and athletes involved in high-impact sports are particularly susceptible to these types of fractures due to the repetitive stress placed on their feet. Additionally, factors such as poor bone density, nutritional deficiencies, and hormonal imbalances can increase the risk of stress fractures. Symptoms of foot stress fractures include localized pain, swelling, and tenderness. It is beneficial to incorporate into your routine proper rest, adequate footwear, and training techniques that may help in preventing foot stress fractures. If you have endured this type of injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat foot stress fractures.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, 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 Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. This condition typically manifests as heel pain, particularly with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest, which can gradually worsen throughout the day. The precise cause of plantar fasciitis is not always clear, but it often results from repetitive strain or excessive stress on the plantar fascia. Factors contributing to the development of plantar fasciitis include overuse from activities such as running, walking long distances, or standing for extended periods. Additionally, certain risk factors like obesity, high arches, flat feet, or tight calf muscles can increase the likelihood of developing plantar fasciitis. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose plantar fasciitis, and offer an appropriate treatment plan.

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

An ingrown toenail, a common foot condition, occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, swelling, and discomfort. This condition typically affects the big toe but can occur on any toe. Ingrown toenails can develop due to a variety of factors, including improper nail trimming techniques, wearing tight-fitting shoes, or sustaining toe injuries. Additionally, individuals with curved or unusually shaped toenails may be more prone to ingrown toenails. Symptoms of ingrown toenails include redness, tenderness, and inflammation around the affected nail, as well as the presence of pus or drainage in severe cases. If left untreated, ingrown toenails can become infected, causing further pain and complications. Recognizing the causes and symptoms of ingrown toenails is important for prompt treatment and prevention strategies. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can treat this condition, which may include minor surgery for partial or total removal.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, 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.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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.

Pregnancy is marked by numerous changes in the body, including the feet. One notable alteration is the increase in shoe size experienced by many expectant mothers. This change occurs due to hormonal fluctuations and the body's natural tendency to retain fluids, which leads to swelling in the feet and ankles. Consequently, women may find that their usual shoe size feels snug or uncomfortable during pregnancy, necessitating the need for larger footwear to accommodate the swelling. Additionally, some pregnant individuals may encounter itching and redness on the soles of their feet, a condition known as pruritus gravidarum. This symptom can arise due to heightened blood circulation, hormonal changes, or skin stretching, causing discomfort and irritation. While these foot changes are a normal part of pregnancy, expectant mothers need to prioritize foot health by wearing supportive footwear, practicing gentle foot exercises, and elevating the feet to reduce swelling. Consulting with a podiatrist can also guide in managing foot discomfort and ensuring a smooth pregnancy journey. If you are seeking relief from foot conditions developed during pregnancy, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

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

Heel pain can stem from various underlying causes, impacting the daily activities and quality of life of people of all ages. One common reason is plantar fasciitis, which is the inflammation of the tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes. This condition often causes sharp pain in the bottom of the heel, particularly upon standing or walking after periods of rest. Achilles tendonitis, another frequent cause of heel pain, involves inflammation of the Achilles tendon at the back of the heel, typically the result of overuse or repetitive stress. Other factors contributing to heel pain include heel spurs, stress fractures, and nerve compression. Symptoms may range from mild discomfort to severe pain and may worsen with activity. Proper diagnosis by a podiatrist is critical for effective treatment and management strategies tailored to address the underlying cause of heel pain. If you have developed heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you a tailored treatment plan.

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.