Items filtered by date: March 2023

Ankle pain can happen for various reasons. Whatever the source may be, it generally causes difficulty in completing daily activities. Some people can be injured by unexpectedly stepping off of a curb and twisting the ankle, which may cause the ligaments and tendons to move beyond their normal range of motion. This can be classified as a sprain or a fracture, and an X-ray is often taken to determine which one it is. Existing medical conditions can cause ankle pain, such as different types of arthritis, including rheumatoid and gout. Cartilage damage may have occurred from previous injuries, and this can make the ankle weak and unstable, possibly causing pain and discomfort. It is beneficial to seek prompt medical attention if the ankle becomes inflamed, is unable to move, or if there are signs of an infection. If you have ankle pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine the cause and provide you with relief and treatment options that are right for you.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Manhattan Footcare. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

When you are ready to buy new shoes, it is important to keep function and comfort in mind. Fashion should be secondary. Tips for helping to pick out the right shoes for you include shopping for shoes later in the day as the feet expand as the day wears on, measuring your feet, and trusting your comfort level at the time of trying on the shoes. Well-fitting shoes will not need a break-in period to feel comfortable. Furthermore, bring the foot coverings you plan to wear with the new shoes to the store, make sure there is at least a half-inch between the longest toe and the end of the shoe, and pay attention to the width as well as the length of the shoes. If you have additional questions about purchasing the right shoes for your feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can best direct you.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Manhattan Footcare. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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

Research has shown that more than half of the population stands while working. Potential health risks may be increased when standing is done for long periods of time. The feet are the foundation of the body, and it is important that they are protected while working. This can consist of wearing shoes that fit correctly and choosing shoes that have a low heel. These types of shoes can be helpful in protecting the hamstrings and back, and may prevent osteoarthritis from developing. Taking frequent breaks will allow movement, which may help to maintain proper circulation. Additionally, shuffling the feet while standing can accomplish the same thing by redistributing body weight. Many sources believe the body’s flexibility and ability to function can improve when strength training exercises are performed. If you would like more information about what type of shoes to buy for your work day, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Manhattan Footcare. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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

The medical term for dry skin is called anhydrosis, and this is a common cause of cracked heels. The aging process, existing medical conditions, such as eczema, and standing on hard surfaces for most of the day can cause cracked heels to develop. When open back shoes or flip flops are frequently worn, this can also be a reason for patients to have cracked heels. In addition to being unsightly, symptoms can include rough and tight skin, and the heels and surrounding area may begin to itch. Severe cracks in the skin are known as fissures, and can bleed and become infected if left ignored. Relief for mildly cracked heels may come from using a good moisturizer daily, and filing the skin with a pumice stone. This is considered to be a temporary remedy, and it is suggested that patients speak with a podiatrist who can offer permanent relief and treatment options, which may include prescribed medicine.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Manhattan Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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