Items filtered by date: November 2019

The part of the body that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone is called the Achilles tendon. This tendon allows the foot to point and flex, and it is necessary for it to function properly in order to walk. It is susceptible to normal wear and tear, and may gradually rupture. This condition is called Achilles tendinosis, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. The noticeable signs that an Achilles tendon injury may have occurred is immediate pain in the calf and surrounding areas, limited mobility, and a popping sound may be heard at the time of the injury. This ailment may happen for a variety of reasons. These can include wearing incorrect shoes for a particular sport, exercising on uneven surfaces, or from medical conditions such as flat feet. Treatment may consist of performing specific stretches that can heal and strengthen the Achilles tendon, in addition to elevating the affected foot, which may reduce existing swelling. It is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist if you have endured this type of injury.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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

A common type of fungal infection is known as athlete’s foot. This contagious fungus lives and thrives in warm and moist environments, consisting of public pools, shower room floors, and surrounding areas. Research has indicated that there are three specific types of athlete’s foot. If the skin between the fourth and fifth toes becomes red, peels, and gradually cracks, it is referred to as a toe web infection. If the skin on the bottom of the foot itches and becomes thick, it may be indicative a moccasin type infection. If you notice blisters under the skin, you may have a vesicular type infection. Mild cases of athlete’s foot may be treated using an antifungal spray. For more severe cases, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can prescribe more aggressive forms of treatment.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

Patients who experience the medical condition that is known as gout may feel severe pain and discomfort that is associated with the condition. In severe cases, the pain may be so extreme, the weight of a blanket or sheet may be intolerable. It is defined as an ailment that produces crystals which lodge in the joints of the big toe. It occurs as a result of elevated uric acid levels that are found in the bloodstream. This can happen when foods that are eaten have a high level of purines. Foods that fall into this category can include red meat, shellfish, and drinks that contain sugar. If gout attacks are a frequent occurrence, a change in dietary habits may be beneficial in preventing them in the future. This can consist of drinking plenty of water daily, and eating fresh vegetables. If you would like additional information about how to prevent gout attacks, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can provide you with proper information.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

A large bump on the side of the big toe may indicate that a bunion has developed. It is considered to be a deformity, and calluses may form on the top as a result of friction against shoes that are worn. Additionally, blisters may appear, and it may become painful, red, and swollen. Common causes why bunions can develop can consist of genetic factors, and wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. Research has indicated that patients who are afflicted with arthritis may notice a bunion forming over painful joints in the big toe. There may be methods that can be implemented which may help to prevent bunions from developing. These can include wearing shoes that have a lower heel, and avoiding backless shoes. If you have a bunion, it is suggested that you seek the advice of a podiatrist who can offer you correct methods of treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. 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?

Doctors 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 doctor.

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 offices located in Moriches and Shirley, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.