Items filtered by date: October 2022

There are several reasons why people have ankle pain, and one of them may be arthritis. Arthritis can be a debilitating condition that can cause severe ankle pain and discomfort, and it may be difficult to move the foot. The ankles may become swollen and stiff, and wearing shoes could become challenging. The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis, and this may cause wear and tear on the ankle joints. The condition known as lupus can cause a considerable amount of swelling in the ankles and may even turn them blue from becoming cold. One of the first things that is noticeable with reactive arthritis can be an inflamed Achilles tendon, which is in the back of the lower leg. If you have ankle pain for any reason, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is as well as offer you the correct treatment options.

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 William Street Podiatry. 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 one of our offices located in William Street in New York, NY, Forest Hills, NY, and Broadway in New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flip-flops can be stylish, breathable, and easy to slip on, but this flimsy footwear can be harmful to the feet. Just wearing flip-flops on city streets can cause grime to coat the feet. If you develop even a small cut on your foot, bacteria can enter and cause an infection. Such an infection can enter your bloodstream and if left untreated, cause dire consequences. The feet and toes also work extra hard to keep flip-flops securely on. It is best to keep flip-flop wearing to a minimum. Sandals with a back strap are good for trips to the beach, swimming pools, and gym areas. Well-fitting closed-toed shoes are best for foot protection. If you develop problems from wearing flip-flops or want further suggestions for the best footwear for your feet, see a podiatrist who is trained in everything related to the feet and ankles.  

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from William Street Podiatry. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

• Ankle problems
• Hip problems
• Lower back problems
• Pain in the balls of the feet
• Problems with foot arches
• Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

• Sprained ankles
• Blisters
• Infections
• Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in William Street in New York, NY, Forest Hills, NY, and Broadway in New York, NY .  We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The Achilles tendon connects the muscles of the calf and lower leg to the heel bone. When it is stretched beyond its limits, it can become inflamed (called tendonitis) or tear (also known as a rupture). Injuries to the Achilles tendon can cause mild to severe pain and stiffness. Achilles tendonitis can come on from a variety of reasons, including sudden increase in exercise, insufficient stretching of the calf muscle, flat feet, a bony spur on the back of the ankle, or leg length differences. The pain one feels with this inflammatory condition can be felt near the bottom of the calf muscle, along the tendon, or near the heel bone and is described as a burning sensation that worsens with activity. There may be mild swelling and warmth in the affected area and some stiffness, especially before warming up. Untreated, tendonitis can progress to tendinosis, which is when the collagen fibers that make up the tendon break down. There is no inflammation with tendinosis, but scar tissue may result from this and lead to permanent thickening. An Achilles tendon rupture is rarer but happens when the tendon fibers tear and separate completely or in part. This can occur from sudden force being exerted on the tendon, severe overstretching causing the tendon to tear, or taking a type of antibiotic called fluoroquinolones. This will bring on severe heel pain and an inability to walk or bear weight on the foot. If you feel Achilles tendon pain, it is best to consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment that is right for you.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of William Street Podiatry. 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 one of our offices located in William Street in New York, NY, Forest Hills, NY, and Broadway in New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A heel spur is a bony protrusion on the underside of the calcaneus or heel bone. A heel spur can extend as much as half an inch from the bone. Some heel spurs are painless, but others can induce chronic pain that is sometimes associated with plantar fasciitis. These spurs are more common among athletes who do a lot of jumping and running. Risks for the development of heel spurs include running or jogging on hard surfaces, gait abnormalities that place excessive stress on the calcaneus, and being overweight. In addition, poorly fitted shoes that lack sufficient arch support can increase the risk of heel spurs. Just the process of aging can be a risk factor as the result of thinning fat pads in the heels. Other risks are engaging in short bursts of activity, spending an excessive amount of time on your feet, and having flat feet or high arches. Prevention tips include wearing well-fitting shoes with ample heel support and shock-absorbing soles. In some cases, custom orthotics may be the answer. For details on dealing with heel spurs and information on orthotics, please consult a podiatrist.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from William Street Podiatry. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact one of our offices located in William Street in New York, NY, Forest Hills, NY, and Broadway in New York, NY . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.