Blog
Twisting Your Ankle
A twisted ankle, or an ankle sprain, leads to overstretching or tearing of a ligament around the ankle. Ankle sprains make up 85% of ankle injuries. Such sprains usually occur from a sports injury, walking or running on uneven ground, or wearing high heels. Sprains can recur, so making sure to heal properly from a sprained ankle is important. If an ankle twists suddenly, it can force the foot outside its normal range of motion and place stress on the ligaments. When stretched beyond its normal limits, the ligament can start to tear. Torn ankle ligaments are most likely to occur in those under 30 years of age, regardless of gender. There will be mild to significant pain, swelling, and bruising depending on the severity of the sprain. The ability to walk will also be related to the grade of the sprain incurred. If you are having ankle pain after twisting your ankle, see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment options.
Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle 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.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
- Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
- Ankle sprains
- Broken ankles
- Achilles tendinitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
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.
Various Types of Corns
A corn is one of the ways the body protects damaged skin against excessive friction. It is a small, hardened area of skin that can form on various areas of the foot. These can include the pinky toe, the soles of the feet, or the top of the toes. A corn that develops on the side of the pinky toe can be painful, and wider shoes may need to be purchased that may help to bring partial relief. Hard corns are found in the above areas and often occurs as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Soft corns can be found between the toes, and are named for the consistent moisture that is found there. If the corn is small, a protective pad can be worn over it which may reduce the pressure from the shoe. Patients who have larger corns are often seen by a podiatrist who can use effective techniques for removal. Please confer with this type of doctor who can guide you toward effective prevention methods.
Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM of New York. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:
- Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
- Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
- Wearing only shoes that offer support
Treating Corns
Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
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.
Symptoms and Causes of Midfoot Neuromas
A neuroma of the foot is a painful condition, also known as a pinched nerve or nerve tumor. It is characterized by pain in the ball of the foot, burning or tingling, and some cramping. The neuroma usually develops between the 3rd and 4th toes, causing difficulty walking for long periods. The cause of neuromas is unclear, but certain factors can be connected to their development. Biomechanical difficulties, such as flat feet and high arches, bring on instability to the toe joints that may lead to a neuroma. Direct trauma to the foot can damage the nerve and cause inflammation and swelling. Wearing high-heeled shoes that squeeze the toes can lead to increased pressure on the nerves near the ball of the foot. Finally, repeated stress on the bottom of the feet can create or aggravate a neuroma. If you are experiencing pain in the toes, tingling and numbness in the ball of the foot, swelling, and pain on the ball of the foot when bearing weight, it may indicate a neuroma. Please consult a podiatrist as soon as possible for a diagnosis and treatment options.
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.
It's Time for Beautiful Feet
You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.
Symptoms of Erythromelalgia
Various conditions can affect the feet, and erythromelalgia is considered to be a rare foot condition. Common symptoms that are often experienced with this ailment can include burning pain, increased skin temperature, and the affected area may be red. The reason this condition can occur is unknown, despite researchers discovering it may happen from abnormalities in the blood flow. Many patients who are afflicted with erythromelalgia may notice these symptoms gradually appear, and their frequency can increase over time. Patients have found mild relief when their feet are immersed in ice water, or by exposing them to cold air from an air conditioner or fan. People who are experiencing these symptoms are urged to contact a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can effectively diagnose this condition, and prescribe medication for possible relief.
Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, 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.
Rare Foot Conditions
The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist. Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care.
There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:
- Freiberg’s disease
- Kohler’s disease
- Maffucci syndrome
Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp.
Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.
Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking.
A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.
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.
How Can I Prevent Toenail Fungus?
Toenail fungus is undoubtedly an unpleasant, unsightly, and potentially uncomfortable condition that can affect just about anyone. Since this condition can make the nails appear discolored and in bad form, many patients of podiatrists are curious about how they might go about preventing toenail fungus from developing. The good news is that there are several steps that an individual might take to prevent toenail fungus. If a patient uses antifungal sprays or powders, then this might significantly improve the patient’s resistance to developing a toenail fungus. Additionally, when a person properly cares for their nails, this can significantly help protect the nails from becoming infected. This includes properly cutting the nails, and ensuring that they are clean. If you are worried about preventing toenail fungus, you can make an appointment with a podiatrist today. This foot specialist will help you address your problems.
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.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.
Antifungals & Deterrence
Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.
Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.
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.
The Importance of Foot Care in Seniors
As one gets older, caring for the feet becomes more and more important. A daily regimen of foot care is recommended by experts in geriatrics. Inspecting the feet for cuts, bruises, and sores is something that should be done every day, either by yourself or by a caregiver. Many older people develop underlying conditions that contribute to foot problems that if ignored can have serious repercussions, including numbness, inability to feel hot and cold temperatures, and increased risk of falling. For this reason, maintaining both a healthy diet and doing low-impact exercises regularly can go a long way to keeping you mobile, independent, and able to carry out daily activities. Wearing supportive shoes with ample cushioning is suggested, and going barefoot is to be avoided if possible. If your feet are in constant pain, if they are numb, or if you have sores that take a long time to heal, it is a good idea to consult 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.
Bunions Can Be Partially Caused by a Muscle Imbalance
A bunion occurs from repeated stress that happens on the outside of the big toe. Wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely may cause a bunion. High heels can fall into this category, and it is a condition that is more prevalent among women than men. It is defined as a bony protrusion that develops on the side of the big toe and may cause the other toes to shift toward each other. It is known as a progress foot deformity, and many patients develop bunions for genetic reasons. It is considered to be an imbalance of the muscles and ligaments, where they are either too tight or too loose. The big toe may have a limited range of motion, and walking may be painful. It is common for calluses to form on top of the bunion, and this can be a result of the shoe rubbing against it. In addition to its obvious appearance, an X-ray is often performed that can determine the severity of it. A bunion is a foot condition that is treated by a podiatrist, and if you are afflicted with this, it is suggested you schedule an appointment as quickly as possible so the correct treatment can begin.
If you are suffering from bunion pain, 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.
What Is a Bunion?
Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.
Causes
- Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
- Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development
Symptoms
- Redness and inflammation
- Pain and tenderness
- Callus or corns on the bump
- Restricted motion in the big toe
In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.
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.
Heel Pain Can Be Treated!
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek professional help and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
Mitigating Foot Pain During Pregnancy
During a woman’s pregnancy, she might experience several different important changes to her feet. For example, the increased weight gained from bearing a growing child can put extra strain on the feet, sometimes causing foot pain. There are several steps that a pregnant woman could consider taking to mitigate her increased foot pain. First, a pregnant woman might drink a good deal of water. Doing this will help reduce the amount of salt in the body, consequently minimizing inflammation in the feet. Also, a pregnant woman could apply ice to the feet if the ankles become exceedingly swollen. Applying ice in short increments to the feet can help bring down the swelling. Lastly, a pregnant woman can make an appointment with a podiatrist to help treat any pain in the feet that she is experiencing. To learn more about mitigating foot pain during pregnancy, make an appointment with a podiatrist today.
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.
More...
Painful Gout Is a Form of Arthritis
The foot condition known as gout can be potentially disabling, and completing daily activities is often difficult to do. It is considered to be a form of arthritis, and may target overweight men who are over 40 years old. Additionally, genetic factors and existing medical conditions, such as kidney disease, may contribute to developing gout. It can attack any of the toes, and generally begins in the big toe. It is an ailment that is caused by excess uric acid in the blood, which deposits in the joints of the toes in the form of crystals. Many people have said the pain can become so debilitating that it can be difficult to walk up the steps, and a lightweight sheet that is on top of the affected toe may cause excruciating pain. Gout attacks may be prevented by living a healthy lifestyle. This can include reducing the intake of red meat, alcohol beverages, sugary drinks, and shellfish. Additionally, it is beneficial to incorporate a gentle exercise program into your daily routine, and this may help to shed additional weight. If you have had gout one time or frequently, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, and offer you helpful prevention tips.
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.
Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury
People who have endured an Achilles tendon injury may have to temporarily alter their lives. It generally happens as a result of an injury that affects the Achilles tendon, and walking may be impossible until proper treatment is provided. This tendon is located in the calf, and connects the calf muscles to the heel. An injury can cause this tendon to rupture, or it may become inflamed from overuse. This can happen from running on uneven surfaces, or from increasing speed and mileage too quickly. If the injury happens from gradual overuse, common symptoms may include stiffness in the heel area after arising, and it can be difficult to flex the foot. Symptoms from a sudden injury can consist of intense pain in the calf and heel, the inability to stand on tiptoes, and a popping sound may be heard. If you have any of the above symptoms, please contact a podiatrist as quickly as possible so the correct treatment can begin.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, 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.
What Is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
- Inflammation
- Dull to severe pain
- Increased blood flow to the tendon
- Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
- Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
- Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
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.
Recovering From Cuboid Syndrome
Cuboid syndrome is a condition of the foot that involves the cuboid bone. This bone is located on the outside of the foot and has a slightly cubical shape. If this bone moves out of alignment with the heel bone, this condition may develop. When determining how long it will take to recover from cuboid syndrome, it is important to consider several different relevant factors. Specifically, one’s recovery time from cuboid syndrome can depend on the duration of time in which the condition was present before treatment commenced. Additionally, recovery from cuboid syndrome can be influenced by the extent to which other injuries are present in the affected areas. One common injury includes ankle sprains. If such injuries are present, then recovery might last perhaps several weeks longer. Additionally, pain relief from cuboid syndrome often occurs within a few days. If you believe that you have cuboid syndrome, contact a podiatrist today.
Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.
Causes
The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:
- Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
- Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
- Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.
Symptoms
A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.
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.
Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?
Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
