Ankle pain is a common complaint that can significantly impact daily activities and mobility. Understanding the connection between ankle ligaments and pain is vital for effective management and prevention of debilitating conditions. The ankle comprises several ligaments responsible for stabilizing the joint and supporting movement. When these ligaments become overstretched or torn due to injury or strain, it can result in ankle pain and instability. For instance, an ankle sprain, characterized by damage to the ligaments on the outer side of the ankle, often leads to swelling, bruising, and pain during weight-bearing activities. Chronic conditions like ligament laxity or instability can also contribute to recurrent ankle pain and discomfort. Proper diagnosis through physical examination, imaging tests, and medical history evaluation is essential to identify the underlying cause of ankle pain and develop an appropriate treatment plan. This may include rest, bracing, or surgical intervention to repair or reconstruct damaged ligaments and restore joint function, ultimately alleviating pain and promoting long-term ankle health. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you seek the advice of a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists  from Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors 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 tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• 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 Co-Op City, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Ingrown toenails are a painful condition where the side or corner of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. This often leads to pain, swelling, and sometimes infection, especially in the big toe. It is important to use proper techniques to prevent the formation of an ingrown toenail. Always trim your toenails dry to avoid bending or tearing them, and cut them straight across rather than rounding the edges. This prevents the nail from digging into the skin as it grows. Avoid trimming cuticles, as they act as barriers against infection, and use appropriate tools like manicure scissors or dedicated toenail clippers. It is also important to have separate clippers for your fingers and toes to prevent cross-contamination. If you have diabetes or another condition that impairs blood flow to your feet, you are at a higher risk of complications from ingrown toenails. Therefore, extra caution is warranted. Regularly practicing these proper nail care habits can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing ingrown toenails. However, if you experience severe pain, swelling, or signs of infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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

Tinea pedis, commonly known as athlete's foot, extends its reach far beyond the realm of athletes. This fungal infection thrives in warm, moist environments, making anyone susceptible, regardless of their athletic pursuits. Individuals who frequent communal spaces like gyms, swimming pools, or shared showers are at highest risk. Preventive measures play an important role in warding off this uncomfortable infection. Keeping feet clean and dry, especially between toes, helps create an unsatisfactory environment for fungi to flourish. Wearing breathable footwear made of natural materials and changing socks regularly can minimize moisture buildup. Avoiding walking barefoot in public areas and using antifungal powders or sprays as a preventive measure can further reduce the risk of infection. Athlete’s foot can be treated by a podiatrist. If you notice signs of this uncomfortable foot condition, it is strongly suggested that you visit this type of doctor who can prescribe medication for effective treatment.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

The process of learning to walk is a significant milestone in a child's foot development, marking the transition from dependency to independence. As infants, babies typically begin to explore their surroundings by lifting their heads, rolling over, and eventually crawling. Over time, they develop the strength and coordination needed to pull themselves up and stand with support. As they gain confidence and stability, they take their first tentative steps, often holding onto furniture or caregivers for balance. With practice and encouragement, children gradually refine their walking skills, progressing from unsteady toddling to confident, independent walking. Along the way, they learn to coordinate their movements, maintain balance, and navigate obstacles in their environment. Walking not only facilitates physical exploration but also fosters cognitive and social development, enabling children to engage more actively with their surroundings and interact with others. If your child is delayed in walking, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can address any concerns you may have.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors 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 Co-Op City, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.