Pressure ulcers on the feet, heels, and ankles are skin injuries caused by constant pressure that reduces blood flow to the area. They are more common in people who spend long periods in bed or in a wheelchair. Early signs include skin that looks red, purple, or blue and does not turn white when pressed. The area may feel warm, firm, or painful. If the pressure continues, the skin can break down and form an open sore, or ulcer. In severe cases, the wound can become deep enough to reach muscle or bone. Risk factors include diabetes, poor circulation, nerve damage, and limited movement. A podiatrist can examine the skin, check blood flow and feeling in the feet, and determine the stage of the ulcer. Treatment involves removing damaged tissue if needed, and applying proper wound dressings and pressure-relieving devices to protect healing tissue. If you have developed pressure ulcers in the lower limbs, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Robert Stein, DPM from South Shore Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Cedarhurst and Franklin Square, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Falls in the home are a common concern, especially for older adults, and can result from poor balance, muscle weakness, foot pain, or environmental hazards. Cluttered walkways, loose rugs, and slippery bathroom surfaces often increase the risk of injury. Preventing falls begins with keeping living spaces clear and well organized, installing grab bars in the bathroom for added stability, using slip resistant bath mats, and refraining from using a ladder without proper support. Wearing supportive footwear indoors can also improve balance. A podiatrist can assess foot health, address pain or instability, and recommend supportive devices to enhance safety. If you have injured your foot or ankle from falling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional fall prevention techniques.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Robert Stein, DPM from South Shore Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Swelling of the feet, also known as edema, occurs when excess fluid collects in the tissues. It is often caused by prolonged standing or sitting, injury, pregnancy, or underlying medical conditions, such as heart, kidney, or circulation problems. Symptoms include puffiness or tightness and discomfort that worsens as the day progresses. The feet may look enlarged or shiny, and pressing on the skin can leave a temporary indentation. Swelling can feel achy, stiff, or tender, and may limit mobility or make shoes feel tight. A podiatrist can help by starting with a detailed evaluation of the feet, circulation, and medical history, sometimes using diagnostic testing to determine the cause. Treatment may include lifestyle modifications, compression support, targeted exercises to improve circulation, and management of contributing conditions. Early care helps prevent complications and maintains foot health. If you have swollen feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management tips.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Robert Stein, DPM of South Shore Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Cedarhurst and Franklin Square, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Exercise can be a powerful tool for managing foot arthritis, when done correctly. Movement helps nourish joints, reduce stiffness, and support daily mobility. One helpful option is toe curls. While seated, place a towel on the floor and gently scrunch it toward you using your toes. Another exercise is ankle circles. Lift one foot and slowly rotate the ankle in both directions to improve flexibility. Calf stretching can also ease pressure on arthritic foot joints. Stand facing a wall, keep one heel down, and lean forward until a stretch is felt. Exercises should be slow and controlled, stopping before pain increases. Consistency matters more than intensity and supports long-term joint health overall. When foot arthritis limits comfort, balance, or walking ability, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for relief options.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Robert Stein, DPM from South Shore Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Cedarhurst and Franklin Square, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain that develops when the thick band of tissue supporting the arch becomes strained or inflamed. It often begins gradually and is frequently linked to overuse, foot mechanics, prolonged standing, or unsupportive footwear. Symptoms usually include sharp or aching pain in the heel, stiffness after rest, and discomfort that improves slightly with movement but returns later in the day. The heel may look normal or mildly swollen, yet it can feel tender, tight, or burning with pressure. Common contributing factors include repetitive stress, tight calf muscles, and weight changes such as soreness, inflammation, and reduced flexibility. A podiatrist can help by starting with a detailed examination and imaging when necessary to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes of heel pain. Treatment often begins with footwear guidance, supportive devices, and custom orthotics, then progresses to medications, targeted exercises, or advanced procedures if symptoms persist. If you think you may have heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Robert Stein, DPM from South Shore Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

Corns are areas of thickened skin that develop as a response to ongoing friction and pressure on the feet. They commonly form on the tops and sides of toes or between toes where shoes rub repeatedly. Wearing tight footwear, abnormal toe positioning, and foot deformities are frequent causes that increase stress on the skin. There are different types of corns, including hard corns on bony areas and soft corns that appear between toes and may stay moist. Corns can be quite painful, especially when pressure is applied during walking or standing. A podiatrist can safely treat corns, relieve discomfort, and address the underlying cause. If you have developed a corn, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Robert Stein, DPM of South Shore Foot Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

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

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Heel pain can result from several causes, including plantar fasciitis, fractures, or tendonitis. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the thick band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes becomes inflamed, often due to overuse, improper footwear, or high impact activities. Heel fractures can result from trauma or stress and may cause swelling, bruising, or difficulty walking. Tendonitis involves inflammation of the tendons around the heel, often from repetitive strain or sudden increases in activity. Heel pain may look subtle from the outside but can feel sharp, stabbing, or aching, especially with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged activity. A podiatrist can diagnose the cause through physical examination, imaging if needed, and gait analysis. Treatment may include stretching, orthotics, supportive footwear, anti-inflammatory therapies, or targeted interventions for fractures. Early evaluation supports faster healing and prevents chronic pain. If you experience persistent heel discomfort, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Robert Stein, DPM of South Shore Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

Sever's disease is a common cause of heel pain in children, named after JW Sever who first described the condition in 1912. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to overuse of the bones and tendons in the foot, often from running, jumping, or other high impact sports. Children with Sever's disease may experience pain at the back or bottom of the heel, limping, stiffness, and difficulty participating in physical activities. The condition is typically seen in active children during growth spurts. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity, recommend stretching and strengthening exercises, provide supportive footwear or orthotics, and guide activity modification. If your child has heel pain or is limping, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management tips for Sever’s disease.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Robert Stein, DPM from South Shore Foot Care. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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