Items filtered by date: September 2023

Foot corns and calluses are common conditions resulting from continuous friction and pressure. Calluses typically develop beneath the ball of the foot, around the heel area, and under the big toe. Corns are a specific type of callus characterized by a hard central core found on top of and between the toes. Various factors contribute to the formation of calluses and corns. Wearing ill-fitting shoes that are tight, narrow, or high-heeled, are frequent culprits. Underlying foot issues such as bunions, hammer toes, or arthritis can also lead to an excess buildup of calluses and corns. However, the most common cause is excessive pressure and friction due to overpronation. An effective treatment for calluses and corns can involve professional removal by a podiatrist. Custom-made orthotics offer a preventive approach by biomechanically realigning the foot, reducing excess pressure, and minimizing friction. If you suffer from calluses and corns on your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss if orthotics are the correct solution. 

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot Care of Long Island. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctors to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Orthotics are custom-made shoe inserts designed to support and align your feet properly. They can be a game-changer when it comes to reducing foot pain and discomfort. First, custom orthotics provide added cushioning and support to your feet, which can help distribute your body weight evenly. This can alleviate pressure on specific areas, such as the arches or heels, and reduce pain associated with conditions like plantar fasciitis or flat feet. Second, custom orthotics can correct abnormal foot mechanics, such as overpronation, which is rolling your feet inward, or supination, which is rolling your feet outward. Orthotics also can help to align your feet and ankles properly and reduce strain on the muscles and tendons. In addition, orthotics can improve your posture and reduce the stress on your knees, hips, and lower back. This process can indirectly alleviate foot pain caused by poor alignment. If you're experiencing discomfort or pain in your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to determine the type of custom orthotics you may need. 

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Care of Long Island. 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 Port Jefferson Station, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle injuries, particularly sprains, can be debilitating, causing pain and making it difficult to move. After a sprain, some patients may notice a cracking or popping sensation. Ankle cracking often affects those who have experienced multiple ankle sprains because repeated injuries can lead to instability in the joint. Over time, the ligaments that support the ankle become worn down, stretched, and weakened. As a result, they can no longer hold the bones securely in place. When the bones move back into their natural positions, a cracking or popping sound results. Attempting to self-diagnose or treat the issue can lead to further and far more serious complications. Tests such as X-rays can offer a more detailed view of the condition, and the treatment for ankle cracking will depend on the severity of the injury. In many cases, nonsurgical approaches can effectively manage the condition. In extreme cases, surgery may be a necessity. If you experience ankle cracking after a sprain, it's suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a full exam, diagnosis, and treatment plan.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Care of Long Island. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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

Pain in the arch of the foot can affect daily activities and cause discomfort. A common cause of arch pain is plantar fasciitis, which often occurs due to flat feet. This condition involves the overstretching of the plantar fascia, leading to morning pain and discomfort in the heel. Stress fractures are another typical source of arch pain, arising from repetitive force, especially in high-impact activities. Flat feet, or fallen arches, can contribute to arch pain as well. When the arches collapse while walking or standing, it can cause discomfort. Managing this condition involves shoe adjustments, using inserts, and incorporating periods of rest. Posterior tibial tendonitis is another cause of arch pain. It results from overuse of the tibialis posterior muscle, particularly after extended periods of standing. Treatment options include rest, specific exercises, and the use of compression. Foot cramps can also lead to arch pain. Wearing ill-fitting shoes that lack arch support is another contributor to arch pain. Underlying medical conditions like arthritis, diabetes, and obesity can weaken bones and tendons, leading to arch pain. If you suffer from pain in the arches of the feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Care of Long Island. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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