orthotics

Plantar Fasciitis: A Big Pain in the Heel

Plantar Fasciitis: A Big Pain in the Heel

Are the first steps you take getting out of bed in the morning sending shooting pains up your heel? Do you have pain in the arch of your foot that’s been increasing over the last few months? Have you noticed swelling on the bottom of your heel?

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.