Items filtered by date: August 2024

Toe injuries are common among runners, often caused by the repetitive impact and friction involved in the sport. Runner’s toe, or toenail trauma, typically results from the toenail repeatedly hitting the inside of the shoe, causing pain and potential bruising. Bruised toenails occur when blood collects under the nail due to direct impact or pressure, leading to dark discoloration. Black toenails, a more severe form of bruising, may be indicative of more significant trauma and can sometimes lead to the toenail falling off. To prevent these issues, ensure that running shoes fit properly with adequate room for toe movement and cushioning to absorb shock. Regularly trimming toenails and wearing moisture-wicking socks can also reduce the risk of injury. If you are experiencing toe pain from a running injury, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist for treatment. 

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Ultimate Foot Care . 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 feel free to contact our office located in Smithtown, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain, results from inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes. This condition often causes stabbing pain, especially in the morning. Standard treatments include rest, targeted exercises, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Custom-made orthotics, however, provide an extremely effective solution by offering tailored support and cushioning. Unlike over-the-counter inserts, these orthotics are specifically designed to fit the unique contours of an individual's feet, alleviating pressure on the plantar fascia. By distributing weight more evenly and correcting abnormal foot mechanics, custom orthotics can significantly reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, they are as effective as corticosteroid injections in reducing thickness and swelling, providing long-term relief and preventing recurrence. If you have persistent discomfort from plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss whether custom-made orthotics can help you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Ultimate Foot Care . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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

During pregnancy, many women experience swelling, or edema, in their feet and ankles. This common issue is caused by the increased fluid retention in the body as it adjusts to support the growing baby. Gravity tends to pull these extra fluids down, leading to a noticeable buildup in the lower legs and feet. This usually starts between the 22nd and 27th weeks and continues until delivery. Swelling often worsens in the evenings and during warmer weather, which can make it tricky to wear your favorite shoes and may lead to aches and discomfort. To ease the swelling, try resting your feet, engaging in gentle exercises like walking or swimming, wearing comfy shoes, and staying well-hydrated. If you are experiencing swelling in the feet or ankles or would like personalized advice on keeping your feet and ankles in top shape throughout your pregnancy, it is suggested you make an appointment with 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 one of our podiatrists from Ultimate Foot Care . Our doctors 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 Smithtown, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, resulting from inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is a thick band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes. This condition often develops due to repetitive strain or overuse, common in runners, people who stand for long periods, or those with high arches or flat feet. Symptoms can include sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, especially noticeable with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged sitting. The pain typically decreases with movement but may return after extended activity. Contributing factors include wearing unsupportive footwear, obesity, and having tight calf muscles. Treatment focuses on relieving inflammation and pain. Common approaches include rest, stretching exercises, and using orthotic inserts to support the arch. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can also help to reduce pain and swelling. In persistent cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be considered. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and tailored 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 one of our podiatrists from Ultimate Foot Care . Our doctors 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 Smithtown, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.