Items filtered by date: January 2025

Complex trauma of the foot and ankle is a severe condition that occurs when fractures are accompanied by significant soft tissue damage. This type of injury often involves the neurovascular structures, such as nerves and blood vessels, as well as the joints in the affected area. The severity of the damage can cause considerable pain, swelling, and dysfunction, making it challenging for individuals to move or bear weight on the injured foot or ankle. Complex trauma typically occurs due to high-impact incidents like car accidents, falls from heights, or severe sports injuries. The combination of broken bones, torn ligaments, and compromised blood vessels or nerves requires immediate medical attention. Surgery is sometimes needed to repair fractures, reconstruct soft tissues, and restore normal function. Timely treatment prevents infection, chronic pain, or long-term disability. If you have endured this type of foot and ankle trauma, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you with effective relief and treatment solutions.

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with one of our podiatrists from Step by Step Podiatry . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

• Broken bones
• Muscle strains
• Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
• Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

• Bruising
• Inflammation/ Swelling
• Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.

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.

Diabetic neuropathy, a complication of diabetes, often affects the feet, toes, and ankles, leading to nerve damage that can cause significant issues. Patients with diabetic neuropathy may experience numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in their feet, which can mask injuries like blisters or sores. Without proper care, these unnoticed injuries may develop into infections or ulcers, which could lead to severe complications. Nerve damage can also weaken balance and coordination, increasing the risk of falls. Loss of sensation in the feet makes daily foot care and regular monitoring essential. A podiatrist can help manage these complications by performing regular foot exams, addressing infections, and recommending protective footwear or orthotics to prevent further damage. This foot doctor can also provide guidance on proper foot care to help patients maintain their mobility and overall foot health. Routine podiatry visits are an essential part of preventing severe outcomes and ensuring early intervention. If you have foot problems caused by diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist. 

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 Step by Step Podiatry . 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 Smithtown, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Swollen feet are a common issue caused by various factors. Long flights or extended road trips where you sit for long periods can lead to poor circulation, causing fluid to build up in the feet and ankles. Consuming too much salt can also contribute to swelling as excess sodium causes the body to retain water. Another cause of swollen feet is not moving enough, particularly if you are sedentary for long stretches, which can hinder blood flow. Additionally, new medications, especially those for high blood pressure, diabetes, or pain, can sometimes cause swelling as a side effect. It is important to stay active, reduce salt intake, and elevate your feet to help reduce swelling. If your feet have become swollen, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the reason is and offer effective relief and management tips.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Step by Step Podiatry . 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 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.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition that occurs when the tibial nerve, which runs along the inside of the ankle, becomes compressed or irritated. This nerve passes through a narrow space called the tarsal tunnel, located near the ankle joint. The compression of this nerve can result from various causes, including injury, inflammation, or anatomical abnormalities. People with flat feet or those who overuse their feet in activities like running or jumping may be at a higher risk. Symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome include burning or tingling sensations, numbness, and pain along the inside of the ankle and into the foot. These symptoms may worsen with activity or prolonged standing. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to relieve symptoms and prevent long-term nerve damage. If you have pain on the inner side of your ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Step by Step Podiatry . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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.