Items filtered by date: November 2024

Systemic sclerosis, or scleroderma, is a rare autoimmune disease that causes skin and connective tissues to harden and tighten, often impacting the feet. This condition affects blood vessels and internal organs as well, leading to complications in various body areas. When systemic sclerosis targets the feet, it can lead to thickened skin, limited mobility, and poor circulation, increasing the risk of ulcers and infections. Although it primarily affects women, typically between the ages of 30 and 50, anyone can develop systemic sclerosis. Risk factors include genetic predisposition, environmental exposures, and certain infections. Foot care for those with systemic sclerosis includes moisturizing, wearing proper footwear, and regular foot inspections. If you have this condition, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for tailored care. This type of specialist can help with custom orthotics, ulcer prevention, and circulation support, improving foot comfort and preventing complications related to this challenging condition.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Robert Stein, DPM from South Shore Foot Care. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the 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 and ankle needs.

Bunions are bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of the big toe, often causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. While bunions are primarily structural issues, targeted exercises can help manage discomfort, improve flexibility, and slow progression. Toe stretches, big-toe circles, and towel scrunches are effective for maintaining joint mobility. Resistance exercises with a band around the big toe can also strengthen the surrounding muscles, helping stabilize the foot. However, if pain from a bunion persists or limits your daily activities, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a comprehensive treatment plan, which may include custom orthotics, footwear advice, and in severe cases, surgical options.

If you are suffering from bunions, 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?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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 spurs are bony growths that form on the underside of the heel bone, often due to repeated stress on the foot. They develop over time as calcium deposits build up in response to strain, particularly in the plantar fascia, which is the ligament connecting the heel to the toes. Many people with heel spurs feel a sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, especially when taking their first steps in the morning or after prolonged sitting. Heel spurs are common among runners, people who are overweight, and those with flat feet or high arches. While they do not disappear, symptoms can be managed effectively. A podiatrist can recommend treatments such as orthotic devices, targeted exercises, anti-inflammatory medications, or cortisone injections to relieve pain. In severe cases, surgical removal may be considered. If you have pain from a heel spur, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for care.

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 Robert Stein, DPM from South Shore Foot Care. Our doctor 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 our offices located in Cedarhurst and Franklin Square, NY . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Plantar fasciitis causes sharp heel pain, especially noticeable in the morning or after long periods of sitting. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes, becomes inflamed due to excessive strain. Common causes include overuse, flat feet, high arches, and wearing inadequate footwear. Symptoms typically include a stabbing pain at the bottom of the heel, which may improve with movement but worsen with prolonged standing or walking. Treatment options for plantar fasciitis include rest. Custom orthotics and supportive shoes can also provide relief by improving foot mechanics. A podiatrist can offer specialized assessments and tailored treatment plans to address your specific needs. They may suggest targeted exercises or corticosteroid injections for persistent pain. If you are struggling with heel pain, consider making an appointment with a podiatrist to get back on your feet comfortably.

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 and ankle needs.