Bunions are a common foot condition that develops gradually as the big toe joint becomes misaligned, forming a prominent bump along the side of the foot. This structural change can affect balance, walking ability, and overall foot health. Bunions are known to increase in frequency with age and are especially common in women due to both biological and lifestyle factors. Recognizing how these elements contribute to bunion formation can help individuals take proactive steps to protect their feet.

The symptoms of bunions often begin with mild discomfort and progress to more noticeable pain, swelling, and stiffness in the big toe joint. The area may become tender, particularly when wearing shoes that press against the bunion. Over time, the big toe may shift toward the other toes, leading to crowding and difficulty finding comfortable footwear. These symptoms can limit mobility and reduce quality of life if not properly managed.

Risk factors for bunions include inherited foot structure, aging-related joint changes, and footwear choices. As people age, ligaments may lose strength, making the foot more prone to misalignment. Women are at higher risk due to frequent use of narrow or high-heeled shoes that concentrate pressure on the forefoot. Additional causes include repetitive stress on the feet, flat arches, and improper gait patterns. These factors work together to increase strain on the big toe joint and contribute to bunion development.

Preventive strategies include wearing supportive shoes with a wide toe box, maintaining healthy foot mechanics, and avoiding excessive pressure on the forefoot. Early attention to symptoms can help slow progression and improve comfort. Taking a proactive approach to foot care supports long-term mobility and well-being. If you have a bunion or notice worsening symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, 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.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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.

Morton’s neuroma is a common nerve-related foot condition that causes pain in the ball of the foot. It occurs when tissue surrounding a nerve becomes thickened and irritated, creating pressure on the affected nerve. The condition most often develops between the third and fourth toes, although symptoms can vary between individuals. Understanding how Morton’s neuroma develops can help identify warning signs and support early treatment.

The symptoms of Morton’s neuroma may include burning sensations, sharp pain, tingling, and numbness in the forefoot. Many people describe the discomfort as feeling like there is a small object trapped inside their shoe. Pain is typically located beneath the ball of the foot and may extend into the toes. Symptoms often become more noticeable during walking, running, or when wearing shoes that squeeze the front of the foot.

Risk factors for Morton’s neuroma include footwear choices, activity levels, and existing foot structure concerns. Wearing high heels and narrow shoes can force the toes together, increasing pressure on the nerves. Athletes who participate in running or jumping activities may also experience repeated stress in the forefoot. Other risk factors include flat feet, high arches, bunions, and hammertoes, which can change the way pressure is distributed across the foot.

Preventing worsening symptoms involves reducing irritation and supporting proper foot mechanics. Choosing comfortable shoes with enough room for the toes can help decrease pressure on the nerve. Addressing foot alignment concerns early may also improve comfort and mobility. Morton’s neuroma can be painful and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma. 

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Robert Stein, DPM of South Shore Foot Care. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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.

Treadmill running offers a convenient way to exercise in a controlled setting. Runners can choose their speed, adjust the incline, and follow a pace without dealing with traffic or challenging weather. The belt provides a smooth, predictable surface that can feel gentler than concrete. This consistency can help new runners learn pacing and gradually build endurance. A treadmill makes interval training easier because speed settings are precise. For people with busy schedules, indoor access can make regular running more practical. These benefits make the treadmill a useful option for fitness, training, and maintaining a routine throughout the year.

However, treadmill running has drawbacks. The moving belt assists with forward motion, so the legs and feet work somewhat differently than they do outdoors. A flat, even surface also places the body through the same movement repeatedly. This lack of variety can contribute to soreness or strain, especially when speed or distance rises too quickly. Treadmills do not prepare runners for uneven ground, sharp turns, or downhill sections. They can also feel repetitive, and some runners find the indoor setting less motivating. Having poor form and wearing shoes that lack proper support can increase pressure on the heels, arches, and ankles.

A podiatrist can help runners gain the benefits of treadmill exercise while reducing injury risks. The visit can include an examination of foot structure, joint movement, and running form. A podiatrist can identify problems linked to heel pain, arch strain, or repeated stress. Advice can cover proper shoe selection, safe training changes, and the use of custom orthotics. These are shoe inserts designed to improve support and distribute pressure more evenly. A podiatrist can also explain whether treadmill running suits a patient's foot health, symptoms, and training goals. If your feet hurt after running on a treadmill, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Robert Stein, DPM of South Shore Foot Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

• Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
• Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
• “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
• Cross-Training is Crucial
• Wear Proper Running Shoes
• Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause 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.

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, called the plantar fascia. It can cause sharp, burning heel pain or pain under the foot that feels like walking on broken glass. Many patients notice the worst discomfort with their first steps in the morning or after sitting for a long time. The pain usually eases after several minutes of movement, but it can return after long hours of standing, running, or other demanding activities. One or both feet can be affected, making daily routines more difficult.

The plantar fascia supports the arch and helps absorb force with every step. Repeated strain can create tiny tears where the tissue attaches to the heel, leading to irritation and inflammation. Risk factors include running, standing for long periods of time, and shoes that lack proper support. Flat feet, high arches, and tight calf muscles also place extra stress on the tissue. Extra body weight and getting older increase the chance of developing this painful condition. People who return to sports after a long break also face higher risk because the tissue must handle sudden stress. Hard running surfaces and jobs that require many hours on the feet can further increase strain on the heel and arch with every step.

A podiatrist diagnoses plantar fasciitis by discussing symptoms, examining the foot, and checking how you walk. Imaging tests are only used when another problem is suspected. Treatment includes custom orthotics, injections, and target exercises. Surgery may be needed for severe cases that do not improve with other care. A podiatrist also identifies factors that cause repeated strain and recommends changes that protect the foot while supporting healing. If you have heel pain or other pain under the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. 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 the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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.