Items filtered by date: June 2022

The foot withstands considerable force placed on it by all the activities we do, including walking. There are 26 bones in the foot that are connected by joints and supported by ligaments to absorb the impact of movement. Also, muscles and tendons in the foot allow for flexing and extending the foot. Bones in the foot can break from direct blows, injuries, falls, overuse, or stress. Symptoms of a broken foot include pain, swelling, bruising, and an inability to put weight on the foot. If a bone is sticking out from the foot after a fracture, it is more serious and could become a deformity. Most foot fractures are treated with a compression dressing, a stiff soled shoe or boot, and weight bearing as tolerated. Complications can arise from a foot fracture if the bones do not heal properly, if arthritis is involved, one has peripheral neuropathy, or if the skin is broken and an infection develops. Healing time depends on the type of break and the bones involved. A podiatrist should be consulted to confirm a break, access its severity, and for a proper treatment regimen.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Nassau Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Oceanside, Franklin Square, and East Norwich, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A broken toe can occur when a heavy object drops on it, or if it is stubbed against a piece of furniture. It generally causes immediate pain, and can look bruised and swollen. It is common for the surrounding ligaments and tendons to become damaged when a broken toe occurs, and walking can be difficult. A proper diagnosis consists of having an X-ray taken, in addition to assessing the alignment of the toes. If the fracture is mild, buddy taping may be an effective form of treatment. This is done by taping the broken toe to the toe next to it, and this can provide the stability that is needed as the healing process occurs. Some patients are able to wear a stiff-soled shoe that can help to eliminate toe movement. Surgery may be a necessary option to realign toes if they are significantly deformed. As healing takes place, it is beneficial to frequently elevate the foot which can help to reduce existing swelling. If you have fractured your toe, it is strongly suggested that you confer with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Nassau Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Oceanside, Franklin Square, and East Norwich, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The most common type of arthritis is known as osteoarthritis. It can develop in the feet and ankles and may cause severe pain and discomfort. The big toe is mostly affected by this type of arthritis. Shape and structure may change in addition to possibly causing damage to the cartilage. This can produce swelling as the bones rub against each other. Patients who have sustained an ankle injury may be prone to developing arthritis in the feet which may contribute to the development of other foot conditions including bunions, corns, and calluses. Starting a regular exercise routine may provide mild relief to the foot by strengthening the muscles and tendons. Research has indicated it is beneficial to incorporate three types of exercise into your daily routine. These can consist of aerobic exercises that can increase the heart rate, in addition to stretching and strengthening moves that can improve range of motion. If you are afflicted with arthritis in the feet, it is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Nassau Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Oceanside, Franklin Square, and East Norwich, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

If you are experiencing heel pain, chances are you may have plantar fasciitis, which is the most common cause. Plantar fasciitis occurs when there is an inflammation of the plantar fascia tissue on the bottom of the foot. This connective tissue attaches at the heel bone, then extends towards the forefoot, fanning out into five bands that attach to each toe’s phalanx bone. The plantar fascia supports the arch and helps to act as a shock absorber when walking, running, and jumping. Since the plantar fascia is used continuously in everyday activities it can become stressed, overused, and even torn. The heel pain of plantar fasciitis is usually at its most severe when you take your first steps after waking up or resting. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist if you are experiencing any kind of heel pain. Podiatrists treat plantar fasciitis and other forms of heel pain every day and have many therapies and methods of treatment that will offer you the relief you seek.

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 Nassau Foot & Ankle. 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 offices located in Oceanside, Franklin Square, and East Norwich, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.