Diagnosing Heel Pain

Diagnosing heel pain in adults involves a thorough evaluation by a podiatrist to determine the underlying cause. Common conditions include plantar fasciitis, which causes pain on the bottom of the heel, and Achilles tendinitis, which affects the back of the heel. Other possibilities include heel spurs, bursitis, or stress fractures. Diagnosis typically starts with a detailed medical history and physical examination, assessing factors like foot structure and gait. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans, may be used to identify structural issues or rule out other conditions. Blood tests might be conducted if an inflammatory or systemic condition is suspected. Accurate diagnosis is important for effective treatment, which could include orthotics. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can tailor an approach for addressing your specific problem.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, 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.

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 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.

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Early Intervention for Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Diabetic foot ulcers are open sores that typically form on the bottom of the feet in individuals with diabetes. These ulcers progress through several stages, each requiring careful management. In the initial stage, the skin breaks down, often due to minor injuries or pressure. As the ulcer develops, it can deepen, affecting the underlying tissue and potentially reaching the muscle or bone. At advanced stages, infection sets in, leading to serious complications like gangrene, which may necessitate amputation. Seeking early treatment is critical because the earlier the intervention, the better the chances of preventing progression. Early treatment can stop the ulcer from worsening, reduce the risk of infection, and promote faster healing. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist to stay on top of any developing foot problems and prevent complications, as well as to help maintain mobility and quality of life.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

  • Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
  • Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
  • Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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.

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Essential Practices for Healthy Feet

Everyday foot care is vital for maintaining overall foot health and preventing common issues. Wearing comfortable, well-fitting shoes is important as they support and protect the feet from stress and injury. Regular walking helps maintain healthy circulation and keeps the feet flexible. Washing your feet daily with mild soap and water is important to remove dirt and sweat, reducing the risk of infections and unpleasant odors. Additionally, wearing clean socks made of breathable materials helps to keep feet dry and helps prevent fungal infections. Conditions that affect the feet, including foot odor, cracked skin, corns, and ingrown toenails, may be prevented by incorporating daily foot hygiene practices. If you have developed a foot condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot ailments and educate you on effective everyday foot care methods.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors 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 Co-Op City, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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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.

Relief Options for Morton’s Toe

Morton's toe is a hereditary foot condition where the second toe appears longer than the first due to a shorter first metatarsal, which is the bone behind the big toe. This anatomical difference shifts pressure to areas of the foot not designed to bear it, leading to discomfort and various foot issues. Common symptoms of Morton's toe can include pain in the ball of the foot, calluses, and joint instability, which may extend to other areas like the hips or lower back. Relief typically involves non-surgical approaches, such as custom orthotics to redistribute pressure, targeted exercising to strengthen the foot, and footwear adjustments like choosing shoes with a wider toe box. These strategies aim to alleviate pain and improve foot function. In cases where conservative treatments are insufficient, surgery may be considered to correct the bone structure. If you have a painful toe abnormality, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, 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.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Trauma
  • Sports injury
  • Wearing shoes that are too tight
  • Arthritis
  • Gout
  • Corns and calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Blisters
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Sprains
  • Fractures (broken bones)
  • Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

  • Severe pain
  • Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
  • Signs of infection
  • Continued swelling
  • Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

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