Items filtered by date: August 2021

Tuesday, 31 August 2021 00:00

Buying Shoes That Feel Comfortable

By wearing shoes that fit well, you can prevent the development of many foot conditions such as bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, blisters, ingrown toenails, plantar fasciitis, Morton’s neuroma and more. Start by knowing your true size. You may think your feet are the same size as they were a few years ago, however, age, changes in weight, and other factors may cause your feet to grow and expand. Have your feet measured every time you buy shoes—both in length and width. Make sure you try shoes on at the end of the day, after your feet have expanded. Check for ⅜” to ½” of space between the tip of the shoe and your big toe, and that the ball of your feet don’t feel squeezed. Don’t buy shoes that feel uncomfortable thinking they will expand, or that you will wear them in later. Walk around the store for a while to get a real sense of their fit. Make sure you don’t slip around in them or that they cause friction by rubbing against your feet, toes, back of your heel, etc. If you are struggling to find the shoes with the right fit for you, a podiatrist can offer additional tips for buying shoes that are appropriate for your particular feet.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Robert Stein, DPM from South Shore Foot Care. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

  • When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
  • Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
  • Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
  • Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
  • If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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.

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Tuesday, 24 August 2021 00:00

What Causes Cuboid Syndrome?

Cuboid syndrome is a condition in which the cuboid bone, located in the center of the foot, becomes dislocated. This produces symptoms such as foot pain, difficulty walking, swelling, sensitivity, and a reduced range of motion of the foot or ankle. The symptoms are like a sprain. Although the precise cause of cuboid syndrome is unknown, this condition is thought to arise from a forceful turn of the cuboid bone outwards as the heel bone turns inwards. This can be caused by an ankle sprain or other lower limb injury. Certain factors can increase the likelihood of cuboid syndrome. These include instability in the midfoot, being overweight or obese, wearing ill-fitting shoes or poorly constructed orthotics, and training excessively or on uneven surfaces. If you are experiencing the symptoms of cuboid syndrome, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist near you.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, 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.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

  • Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
  • Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
  • Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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.

 

Read more about All About Cuboid Syndrome
Wednesday, 18 August 2021 00:00

Heel Pain Can Be Treated!

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

Tuesday, 17 August 2021 00:00

Reasons Your Feet May Hurt

Foot pain is one of the most common complaints addressed by podiatrists. Foot pain may be the result of injury, overuse, or inflammation, among other potential causes. Injuries that may cause foot pain can include Achilles tendonitis or rupture, bone fractures, plantar fasciitis, Morton’s neuroma, tarsal tunnel syndrome, and more. Injuries can occur suddenly or due to repetitive overuse. Inflammatory conditions like arthritis are also very common culprits behind foot pain. Skin conditions like corns, calluses, and plantar warts may lead to foot pain as the affected areas rub against the shoes or are put under pressure while walking or standing. Deformities such as hammertoes and bunions can also be quite painful, especially if they are severe. If you are suffering from foot pain, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist near you. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, 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.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.

Read more about Foot Pain
Tuesday, 10 August 2021 00:00

How to Buy Shoes That Fit You

Happy feet start with shoes that are comfortable and fit well. When purchasing shoes, do your shopping in the afternoon when your feet are usually their largest. Have your feet measured every time to make sure your size has not changed, as can happen over time. If you are like most people, one foot will be slightly larger than the other; choose the size that accommodates the larger foot. Ensure that the ball of your foot fits the widest part of the shoe comfortably. Check the length of the shoe to make sure there is ample room for your toes, and choose shoes that are shaped similarly to your feet. Remember that shoe sizes can fluctuate based on brand and other factors, so always try them on. While standing, check to make sure the width of your finger fits comfortably between the top of your toes and the tip of the shoe. Walk around the store to make sure they feel good and do not slip or rub you uncomfortably. If the shoes do not feel great in the store, don’t rely on them stretching out with wear. A podiatrist can make other specific recommendations based on your foot structure and needs, and also provide custom orthotics for additional support, or to correct any gait issues you may have.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Robert Stein, DPM from South Shore Foot Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

  • Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
  • Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
  • Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
  • Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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 and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 03 August 2021 00:00

Am I More Likely to Develop Toenail Fungus?

A fungal toenail infection is a common problem caused by fungi growing in and around your toenails. This condition can change the appearance of toenails making them brittle, thickened, crumbly, or discolored. In more severe cases, the toenail may separate from the nail bed causing pain, a foul odor, and an increased risk of infection. Some people are more at risk for developing a toenail infection than others. People with other medical conditions like diabetes, peripheral artery disease, peripheral neuropathy, or a compromised immune system, are more likely to incur an infection. Previous injury or prior deformities of the toenails can also increase risk. Wearing shoes and socks that prevent air from reaching your feet, having skin that is moist for prolonged periods of time (often due to excessive sweating), and walking barefoot in warm, moist, or public places, like swimming pools and locker rooms, should be avoided. If you are suffering from any kind of toenail fungus please seek the care of a podiatrist.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, 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.

Symptoms

  • Warped or oddly shaped nails
  • Yellowish nails
  • Loose/separated nail
  • Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
  • Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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.

 

Read more about How to Treat Your Toenail Fungus

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