A bunion is a foot condition defined by a structural change at the joint where the big toe meets the foot. It appears as a bony prominence along the inside of the foot, often accompanied by swelling or redness. Bunions develop due to abnormal joint mechanics, inherited foot structure, or prolonged pressure from narrow footwear. Over time, the big toe may drift toward the smaller toes, altering normal foot function. Symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, tenderness, and difficulty walking comfortably. A podiatrist can properly diagnose the condition and determine its severity. Treatment may involve shoe recommendations, custom orthotics, joint support, and strategies to reduce inflammation and prevent progression. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective management solutions.

If you are suffering from bunions, 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 Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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.

Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition in which the plantar fascia ligament, which connects the heel bone to the toes, becomes inflamed, typically due to injury from overuse. The most common symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain in the heel and the arch of the affected foot. If you have this condition, performing certain stretches may help aid in your recovery from plantar fasciitis. The gastroc stretch helps stretch out the gastroc muscle and Achilles tendon. The soleus stretch helps stretch the soleus muscle and Achilles tendon. The flexor hallicus longus stretch helps stretch the bottom of the foot, inside of the ankle, and back of the calf. To learn more about how stretching can help you in your recovery from plantar fasciitis, please speak with a podiatrist. 

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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.

Gout is a painful form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, most commonly affecting the big toe. The pain may be so debilitating that even the weight of a sheet can cause discomfort. Several factors increase the risk of developing gout, including family history, male gender, older age, obesity, and frequent alcohol consumption. These elements can raise uric acid levels and trigger sudden attacks of severe redness, swelling, and intense joint pain. A podiatrist can diagnose gout through examination and testing, provide treatment to reduce inflammation, and offer long-term strategies to prevent future flare ups. Managing foot function and joint health is also essential for comfort and mobility. If you have symptoms of gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors 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 Co-Op City, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Swollen feet and ankles occur when excess fluid accumulates in the lower extremities, causing puffiness, discomfort, and limited mobility. This condition can result from a variety of underlying causes, including foot and ankle injuries that impair circulation, deep vein thrombosis where blood clots block veins, heart failure that reduces the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently, or kidney disease that interferes with fluid balance. Swelling may be accompanied by pain, redness, warmth, or a feeling of heaviness. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause of the swelling, recommend appropriate treatment, suggest supportive footwear or orthotics, and offer therapies to improve circulation and reduce discomfort. If you notice persistent swelling in your feet or ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide effective relief tips.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. 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.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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.