What to Look for in Therapeutic Shoes - At Long Island Foot and Ankle Group

Therapeutic shoes are recommended for diabetics with existing foot problems or to prevent foot conditions from progressing into serious complications. These type of shoes are special footwear used by amputees and diabetics who are at high risk for nerve damage, foot deformity and foot ulcers.

Forgiving Toe Box

Your shoe’s toe box should allow your toes to move freely. Friction among the toes from hard, confined toe boxes can lead to foot ulcers or even foot deformities. A wide toe box helps prevent the development of hammertoes or relieve the pain associated with this condition.

Regular foot checks are essential especially for diabetics. If you are a diabetic, it is advised that you consult a podiatrist for any sign of foot disorders. The doctors of Long Island Foot and Ankle Group are podiatrists who specialize in helping people with foot disorders and injuries.

Comfortable Material

Shoes made from soft leathers or cloth allows your feet to move freely inside the shoe. Blisters could easily develop as the skin rubs against rough surfaces. Shoes made of flexible materials makes it possible for it to conform to your foot’s unique shape. This rather than having your feet compressed tightly against tight the walls of your shoes.

Special Inserts

Those suffering from flat foot or high arches could use special inserts to provide additional support to their feet. A special insert assists in helping the feet achieve its normal form. This ensures optimum weight distribution in the feet which helps relieve arch or heel pain for those suffering from flat foot or high arches.

Shoe laces and Straps

Shoes with laces or straps allows you to adjust the tightness or fitment of your shoes to your liking. This is especially useful for diabetics suffering from poor circulation in their feet. Shoe laces makes it possible for them to loosen up their shoes to allow a smoother flow of blood to the feet.

Quick Benefits of Therapeutic Shoes

• Therapeutic shoes provide added support
• Better blood flow to the feet
• Realign simple foot deformities
• Minimize pain from foot deformities such as hammertoes
• Brings added comfort to your feet
• Better mobility for those with foot disorders
• Cheaper method of correcting simple foot deformities and preventing further foot damage

Therapeutic shoes has always been a great way of treating simple foot disorders and preventing these from progressing into something more serious. These shoes may not have been popular because it simply didn’t matched their wardrobe. But today’s therapeutic shoes have gone a long way in terms of design and could be used for formal and informal wear.   

At Long Island Foot and Ankle Group with offices located in Valley Stream and Lake Success,we specialize in helping people with foot conditions.  To schedule an appointment phone Valley Stream (516) 825-4070 or Lake Success (516) 327-0074.

James van Riemsdyk Goes Down with Metatarsal Injury - Long Island Foot and Ankle Group

Toronto Maple Leafs winger James van Riemsdyk will be out for six to eight weeks because of a non-displaced fracture in his left foot. The Maple Leafs team announced that Riemsdyk has a metatarsal fracture and will undergo treatment and rehab.

Metatarsal bones are long bones found between the tarsal and phalanges of the toes. A metatarsal fracture happens when one of these long bones is broken or is weakened due to thinning of the bones. Consult a podiatrist for any signs of a metatarsal bone injury The doctors of Long Island Foot and Ankle Group are podiatrists who specialize in helping people with foot pain and other types of foot conditions.

What causes a metatarsal fracture?

Metatarsal fracture is caused by direct injury to the foot such as:

• Twisting of the foot
• Overuse
• Over supination
• Repetitive activities such as running, swimming, or jumping
• Overpronation
• Not enough rest
• Abnormal weight transfer

What are the symptoms of a metatarsal fracture?

During its early stages, pain may be relieved by rest. As the injury becomes severe, rest may not be enough to relieve the pain and can become chronic. Swelling can be noticed without bruising. The following are the most common symptoms of metatarsal fractures:

• A cracking sound at the time of the injury
• Immediate pain and tenderness
• Bruising and swelling
• Difficulty putting weight on the affected foot
• Limited movement of your foot
• Pain that progresses gradually
• Pain worsens when walking or standing
• Pain in the mid or front of the foot

How metatarsal fractures treated?

Treatments may differ and recovery periods range from 4 to 8 weeks depending on the severity of the fracture. Always check with your podiatrist before any treatment.

• Simple painkillers may help to relieve the pain
• Remove all stress from the foot to allow it to heal
• Immobilization
• Rest is needed in metatarsal fractures
• Apply ice as soon as possible after the injury
• Elevation will limit and reduce any swelling
• Surgery to re-align any part of the fractured bone
• Physical therapy to exercise the fractured metatarsal

How to prevent metatarsal fractures?

The risk of foot injuries is high especially in high-impact activities like sports. Preventing metatarsal fractures is tricky but there are a number of things that you can do:

• Gradually intensify the duration of the exercise
• Rest and allow yourself enough time to recover
• Wear appropriate footwear that should protect and support your feet
• Limit activities to prevent further problems
• Visit a medical professional to check your injury

At Long Island Foot and Ankle Group with offices located in Valley Stream and Lake Success, we specialize in helping people suffering from foot problems. To schedule an appointment phone Valley Stream (516) 825-4070 or Lake Success (516) 327-0074.

Webbed Toes Explained - Long Island Foot and Ankle Group

Webbed toes is a condition described as the fusing of two or more toes. Medically referred to as syndactyly, this condition can also be seen in the fingers. Webbed toes and fingers are normal during our early fetal stage. However, this disappear as the toes and finger are separated by enzymes that dissolve the tissue that connects the digits.

Webbed toes is commonly seen in the second and third toes.  But these are not only connected by soft tissue and skin. Complex webbed toes are toes connected by fused bones. And is some rare cases, there is also the presence of an extra toe or finger connected to a digit.

This foot condition may not interfere with our ability to walk or perform normal activities. It may not take a toll physically, but having webbed toes can leave people feeling embarrassed or suffering from low self-esteem. Visiting a podiatrist is the best option when planning to undergo web toe treatment. The doctors at Long Island Foot and Ankle Group are podiatrists who specialize in helping people with web toes.

What Causes Webbed Toes

Some studies show a genetic connection in the development of web toes. But this is inconclusive since people with no previous history of relatives suffering from web toes also develop the condition. Since web toes happens during fetal development, factors that affect normal development during pregnancy is more likely. Factors such as smoking, underlying diseases or poor nutrition that have been traced to the development of deformities during pregnancy are the more likely culprits.

Treating Webbed Toes

Although web toes don’t interfere with normal feet functioning, it can elicit unusual looks which can lead to poor self-esteem. And the desire to appear “normal” is the main reason why people undergo treatment for web toes.

Surgery is an option available for treating web toes. This is usually done in children aged 6 months to 2 years. Anesthesia is introduced to desensitize the target area. The surgeon then marks the areas where the toes will be separated. The surgeon then cuts the skin along these marks. Excess skin is then removed exposing the separated areas of the toes.

A skin graft or taking skin from another part of the body is used to fill in the missing skin. Using the patient’s skin reduces the chances of the body rejecting the skin graft. The toes are then bandaged or a cast is placed to allow the wounds to heal properly.  

 At Long Island Foot and Ankle Group with offices located in Valley Stream and Lake Success, we specialize in helping people with web toes and other foot disorders. To schedule an appointment phone Valley Stream (516) 825-4070 or Lake Success (516) 327-0074.

Dez Bryant Falls to a Jones fracture - Long Island Foot and Ankle Group

Previously there was a lot of talk about Dez Bryant’s injury in a game against the New York Giants. Dez Bryant is a star wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys who suffered a Jones fracture during a game.

Keeping the foot healthy and in tip top shape is essential for any athlete. After all, it is responsible for supporting most of the movements performed by athletes. An injury however small, can spell the end of an athlete’s career. Consult a podiatrist for any signs of chronic foot pain. The doctors of Long Island Foot and Ankle Group are podiatrists who specialize in helping in helping people with chronic foot pain and other types of foot conditions.

What is a Jones fracture?

A Jones fracture is an injury to the base of the fifth metatarsal. Jones fracture is caused by a twisting injury to the foot. Other causes also include trauma, overuse, and repetitive stress. It is also mistaken as a sprain.

What are the symptoms of Jones fracture?
Many times patients describe having symptoms that include:

• Sharp stabbing pain on the outside of the foot
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Pain while walking
• Immobility
• Tenderness to the touch
• Discoloration

Visible signs will appear after an injury has been sustained. If you experience any of the above symptoms, seek medical treatment immediately. You need to stop whatever you are doing and talk to your doctor. Your doctor will do a physical exam and will ask you questions regarding the activities that you are doing when you hurt your foot. He will then perform an x-ray to diagnose the fracture and to see the extent of your injury.

What are the treatments for Jones fracture?

• The first step is to rest and to prevent movement in the foot. Apply ice to the injured part as well.
• Immobilization in a cast. Patients are not allowed to put weight on the injured foot until it heals.
• You may be given anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce the pain and the swelling during the healing period.

Jones fracture will take 6 to 8 weeks to heal in a splint, cast, or walking boot. After this period of time, rehab will begin that will last from 2 to 3 weeks. Surgery is usually performed when the injury is severe. Implementations of screws, wires, bone plates, and pins are included in the surgery. Use crutches, walking boot, or splint at all times unless you are resting. Increase your intake of vitamin C and calcium.

To help prevent a Jones fracture

• Wear appropriate shoes for the activity.
• Using proper training techniques.
• Avoid running on uneven surfaces.

At Long Island Foot and Ankle Group with offices located in Valley Stream and Lake Success, we specialize in helping people with foot fractures.   To schedule an appointment phone Valley Stream (516) 825-4070 or Lake Success (516) 327-0074.

Achilles Tendonitis Hits Memphis Grizzlies Mike Conley - Long Island Foot and Ankle Group

One of the most promising players of the Memphis Grizzlies has been battling the pain in his left foot. Mike Conley, a point guard of the Memphis Grizzlies missed a couple of games due to an Achilles Tendonitis. After evaluating his injury, the team doctors made a decision not to allow Conley to return to the game and just wait for him to recover.

The inflammation of Achilles’ tendon is referred to Achilles Tendonitis. It causes pain at the back of your leg near the area of the heel. Once the tendon of your heel become swollen and painful, there is a big risk that you have Achilles Tendonitis. Consult a podiatrist for any type of foot injury. The doctors of Long Island Foot and Ankle Group are podiatrists who specialize in helping people with chronic foot pain and other types of foot conditions.

The following are the signs and symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis

• Difficulty of flexing your foot or pointing your toes
• There is pain above your heel and the back of your foot while stretching
• Stiffness
• Swelling
• A snapping or popping noise during the injury and
• Tenderness

Here are the possible treatments for Achilles Tendonitis

• The use of anti-inflammatory drugs for a limited period of time
• Reducing the physical activity
• Visiting a physical therapist
• Switching to a less strenuous sport
• Applying ice in the area where there is pain
• Elevate the injured foot to reduce the swelling
• The calf muscles should be stretched and strengthen
• Wear a brace or elastic bandage to prevent the movement of your injured foot
• Getting a steroid injection

If ever the conservative treatments are not effective, surgery or an operation is needed to repair the Achilles' tendon.

These activities will strain the Achilles tendon that will result to Achilles Tendonitis

• Wearing high heels shoes daily
• Exercising without having a warm up
• Your foot suddenly turns in or out
• You have a very tight calf muscles
• Wearing shoes that do not have proper support
• Running on concrete or hard surfaces
• Jumping
• Running too often

You can lower the risk of Achilles Tendonitis with the help of these strategies

• Reduce the heel size of your shoes to let your tendons stretch slowly and to increase
• the range of its motion
• Stretching your calf muscles every morning will help to improve your agility
• Choose and wear a shoe that provides arch support and proper cushioning
• Performing a new exercise routine will help intensify your physical activity
• Combining a low and high impact exercises will reduce stress on your tendons

Long Island Foot and Ankle Group with offices located in Valley Stream and Lake Success,
 we specialize in helping people with foot disorders.  To schedule an appointment phone Valley Stream (516) 825-4070 or Lake Success (516) 327-0074.

What Should I Do For Plantar Warts? - Long Island Foot and Ankle Group

Plantar warts, also referred as Verruca Plantaris are small, hard growths that commonly appear on areas of the feet that undergo the most pressure. Plantar warts are caused by the Human Papillomavirus or HPV. The virus enters the body through cuts or weak spots on the feet.

HPV Type 1 is responsible for most plantar warts. It can gain access to the skin through direct contact. However, our immune system is usually capable of handling and getting rid of this infection.

Signs and symptoms of plantar warts include the following:

• Pain emanating from a thickened skin area on the sole
• A smooth, discolored surface usually brown or grayish-yellow in color
• Firm, thick lesions with dark spots
• Skin imperfections that are flat due to intense pressure

Plantar warts do not require treatment but can be a cause of discomfort and pain. However, you should consult with a podiatrist if pain is persistent or the wart starts to spread. Self-medication is not advised. It is important that you seek the advice of a podiatrist. Self-treatment can actually bring more complications than solutions.  The doctors at Long Island Foot and Ankle Group are podiatrists who specialize in foot care and treating foot warts.

Over-the-counter medications may contain acids that can destroy healthy skin cells. Self-treatment should never be done by people suffering from diabetes and cardiovascular/ circulatory disorders. For those who wish to get rid of their plantar warts, they should seek the help of a podiatrist.

There is no guaranteed cure for plantar warts. Plantar warts may reappear at any time. Studies show that 60 percent of people who suffer plantar wart cases go into remission. This is an indication that the HPV remains in the person’s system. 

Plantar wart treatments may require multiple treatments. This is why consulting with a podiatrist gives you the best course of treatment.

Plantar warts could easily be prevented by following simple health reminders. Wearing footwear in public places, proper foot hygiene and avoiding direct contact with those infected goes a long way in preventing foot warts.

At Long Island Foot and Ankle Group with offices located in Valley Stream and Lake Success, we specialize in helping people with foot disorders. To schedule an appointment phone Valley Stream (516) 825-4070 or Lake Success (516) 327-0074.

Getting Rid of Cracked Heels Safely for Diabetics - Long Island Foot and Ankle Group

Cuts and wounds are easy entry points for infection. And when you’re suffering from diabetes, a simple wound could quickly turn out to be a full-blown infection that may require amputation. Complications from diabetes could have a serious implication on foot health. People with poor eyesight can suffer from a fall or accident which can lead to sprains or foot injuries. 

A cracked heel should also be treated with the same level of concern.  Like wounds or cuts, cracked heels can be entry points of infection. And of course there is the problem of wearing sandals that visually expose these unsightly cracked heels. 

There are a few simple reminders when treating cracked heels in diabetics. Greater care should be done when treating cracked heels due to numerous diabetic complications. For diabetics suffering from a foot disorder, consulting a podiatrist is recommended. The doctors at Long Island Foot and Ankle Group are podiatrists who specialize in foot care and treating foot disorders in diabetics. 

Cracked Heel Treatment for Diabetics

Inspect your heels daily for cracks or sores. The best way to treat cracked heels is to manage it during its early stages. Daily feet inspection is advised for diabetics. Use your fingers to feel any skin thickening. This might not be visible to diabetics suffering from poor eyesight or have lost nerve sensations in their feet. 

 Drink 8 glasses of water or more to maintain your skin’s moisture levels. Diabetics are at higher risk for dehydration or fluid loss due to high glucose levels in their blood. Provide you skin with that extra level of protection against dry skin by keeping yourself hydrated. 

Washing our feet regularly should be done with or without cracked feet. But this should take more urgency when we have diabetes. Cracked feet could provide germs an opportunity to infect. Just be sure to dry the feet thoroughly especially between the toes. 

A pumice stone comes highly recommended when filing away excess skin on the heels. However, this should be done gradually to avoid creating cuts or bruising the skin. 

Use a moisturizer to soften up the skin after washing or before going to bed. Lotions help lock moisture and helps in softening dry skin. Apply moisturizers after a bath or before sleep.  

At Long Island Foot and Ankle Group with offices located in Valley Stream and Lake Success, we specialize in helping diabetics with foot disorders.  To schedule an appointment phone Valley Stream (516) 825-4070 or Lake Success (516) 327-0074.

Why Do Women Get Bunions? - Long Island Foot and Ankle Group

Bunions are a common affliction, especially for women. Caused by a combination of genetics and poor shoes, hallus vaxus, or bunions are a bump at the base of your big toe. Victoria Beckham, model and wife to famous soccer star David Beckham is notorious for her severe bunions caused by years of wearing high heels. In October of 2013, Beckham had a bunionectomy to remove the bunions and realign her toes. 

How do I get bunions? 

There are several ways that bunions can develop, although experts debate the causes. It has been proved though that wearing pointed shoes is a possibly factor. Recently, studies have shown that the condition might hold some genetic roots in it, since girls whose mothers had bunions seem to be more likely to develop the disorder. 

What can I do to treat my bunions?

 A bunion can usually be diagnosed by a simple examination by the doctor, though usually there will be an X-Ray to confirm the diagnosis. The doctors at Long Island Foot and Ankle Group are podiatrists who specialize in foot care and treating foot disorders. 

There are various remedies which can possibly aid those suffering from bunions. Both non-invasive and surgical options are available, depending on the severity of the deformity. For some patients, orthotics that elevate your arches and help distribute pressure evenly across your feet might be beneficial.

Wearing comfortable shoes can prevent unnecessary confinement that can irritate the bunions further. Applying ice to the bunion can provide temporary relief by reducing soreness and inflammation. 

For those with more severe bunions, a bunionectomy might be a suitable course of treatment. There are a few different options when looking at surgery to treat bunions, a few of which include:

• Cutting the swollen tissue from around your big toe
• Removing part of the big toe bone to straighten the alignment
• Joining the bones of the affected joints 

At Long Island Foot and Ankle Group with offices located in Valley Stream and Lake Success, we specialize in helping people with foot disorders.  To schedule an appointment phone Valley Stream (516) 825-4070 or Lake Success (516) 327-0074.

Swollen Ankles and Feet during Pregnancy - Long Island foot & Ankle Group

Pregnancy is that stage of a woman’s life where many physical changes happen. Along with these changes, a pregnant woman might take notice that as her baby is growing bigger; her lower extremities are starting to swell.

What she is experiencing is edema where both the ankles and feet are swollen. This usually happens during the third trimester of the pregnancy and disappears after childbirth as the woman eliminates the excess fluids.

Edema occurs when there is a collection of excess fluids in your tissue and it is a normal occurrence that swelling occurs during pregnancy because a pregnant woman retains more water and there are changes in the blood chemistry causing fluids to shift in the tissues.

Swollen ankles and feet may also be because of the growing uterus. Since it is growing, it puts pressure on the pregnant woman’s pelvic vein and the vena cava. The pressure slows the return of blood from her legs and forces the fluids from her veins into the tissues of the ankles and feet.

Although these changes are perfectly normal during pregnancy, this can also be symptoms of a foot injury. A podiatrist can help reduce swollen ankles or identify if this was caused by a foot injury.

The doctors at Long Island Foot and Ankle Group are podiatrists specialize in helping people with foot disorders and injuries.   

Swollen ankles can be reduced during pregnancy by these following ways:

• Resting on your left side will work as the vena cava is on the right side of your body.
• Never cross your legs or ankles while sitting.
• Wear shoes that are comfortable for you and accommodates the swelling.
• Do not use socks or stockings that are tight around the ankles and calves.
• Use high-waist maternity support stocking. Wear them before going out of bed in the morning because this helps prevent the pooling of fluids around your ankles.
• Elevate your feet up every time you have the chance.
• Exercise and stretch your legs regularly even when sitting. Stretch and straighten your leg out with heel first. Flex your foot and stretch your calf muscles. Rotate your ankles and move your toes.
• If you can, do swimming or water aerobic classes. Soaking yourself in the water helps reduce swelling temporarily.
• Drink plenty of water. Though you might get shock, drinking lots of water helps your body retain less fluid.

At Long Island Foot and Ankle Group with offices located in Valley Stream and Lake Success, we specialize in helping people suffering from foot conditions.  To schedule an appointment phone Valley Stream (516) 825-4070 or Lake Success (516) 327-0074.

Diagnosis and Management of Foot Stress Fractures

Stress fractures commonly develop in the weight-bearing bones especially those located in the lower foot. This type of injury can be seen in track and field athletes or just about anyone who participates in activities that place too much stress on the foot. 

What causes foot stress fractures? 

Stress fractures can be the result of repetitive abuse of the foot during jumps or long distance running. It can also be the result of weakened bones due to an underlying disease. 

Types of foot stress fractures

There are two types of stress fractures, fatigue and insufficiency fractures. Fatigue fractures are the result of repeated stress on the foot that results to an injury beyond the bone’s natural healing ability. An insufficiency fracture on the other hand is caused by a weakened bone structure like those seen in people suffering from osteoporosis. 

Stress fractures remain unnoticed until pain becomes unbearable. This is why early diagnosis is essential to prevent the condition from progressing. A podiatrist is a foot specialist that is highly qualified to identify and treat foot stress fractures.The doctors at Long Island Foot and Ankle Group are podiatrists who specialize in helping people suffering from foot stress fractures.

Symptoms of a foot stress fracture

1. Foot pain that often manifests itself during physical activities and decrease with rest
2. Pain that intensifies over time
3. Swelling and tenderness

 Diagnosis of foot stress fractures

Pain is a signal that indicates injury or something abnormal. Foot pain during physical activities can be an indication of foot stress fractures. Consulting with a podiatrist gives you the best chance for early diagnosis and drastically improves prognosis. 

Diagnosis starts with a thorough check of your medical history and previous activities. The podiatrist inspects your foot for swelling and tenderness.

A thorough diagnosis involves obtaining a detailed history of your condition and performing an examination of the injury and surrounding area. Stress fractures are not easily identified on X-ray until about 3 weeks after the onset of symptoms. More detailed tests such as MRIs, CT scan or bone scans are performed if a podiatrist suspect a stress fracture even after testing negative on X-ray. 

Treatment for foot stress fractures

• Rest – reducing pressure on the feet prevents further injury and buys time for it to heal properly
• Ice – this reduces swelling and helps relieve pain
• Pain medications – stick to acetaminophen based pain relievers. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pain relievers may interfere with proper bone healing. 

At Long Island Foot and Ankle Group with offices located in Valley Stream and Lake Success, we specialize in helping people find relief from Foot Stress Fractures.  To schedule an appointment phone Valley Stream (516) 825-4070 or Lake Success (516) 327-0074.

Charcot Foot Simplified - Long Island Foot and Ankle Group

Charcot foot is a foot condition that is caused by neuropathy or the loss of sensation in the feet. Nerve damage leads to the loss of sensation which increases the risk for foot injuries. Repeated injuries to the bones and joints can lead to long term damage to the structures of the feet. This is often noticed when symptoms have become so severe. Without proper treatment, this may require serious medical intervention such as amputation.

 Symptoms of Charcot Foot

A Charcot foot may remain relatively unnoticed because of the loss of sensation in the feet. Swelling and redness are the first noticeable symptoms. This is because it can be detected visually. The loss of sensation makes it impossible to experience pain when injury has occurred. If untreated, this can lead to foot deformities, fallen arch or ankle instability. 

Because of its nature, diabetics are advised to visit a podiatrist regularly. This is to enable early detection and treatment. The doctors at Long Island Foot and Ankle Group are podiatrists in helping people suffering from Charcot foot. 

Possible Causes of Charcot Foot

Diabetics are at high risk for developing Charcot foot. This is because diabetes can lead to peripheral neuropathy or nerve damage in the feet. Other conditions that can cause Charcot foot are leprosy, alcoholism, syphilis and smoking. 

Repeated trauma and injury to the feet when left untreated can cause dislocation and fractures. Problems with circulation can interfere with the flow of nutrients to the feet which can lead to bone weakening. This makes the bones more susceptible to dislocation and fractures. 

Diagnosis

• Signs and symptoms of Charcot feet may remain undetectable for weeks or months. Charcot foot may only be suspected when the first visible signs are evident or when the patient experiences difficulty in moving the feet. Redness, tenderness and warmth in the foot are the earliest signs of the foot condition. Pain is also expressed by patients with less severe peripheral neuropathy. It only becomes evident with the development of a foot deformity. 
• Non-surgical treatments are available for treating Charcot foot. This includes the use of splints, walking braces and even a cast. Patients who are undergoing treatment are discouraged from any weight bearing activities until the foot is healed. After the foot has been stabilized, a podiatrist recommends the use of protective foot ware and therapeutic shoes. 

At Long Island Foot and Ankle Group with offices located in Valley Stream and Lake Success,  we specialize in helping people with Charcot foot.  To schedule an appointment phone Valley Stream (516) 825-4070 or Lake Success (516) 327-0074.