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.

Toenail infections develop when organisms enter small openings in the nail or surrounding skin and slowly affect nail structure. Athlete’s foot allows organisms to spread from skin to nail. Repeated exposure around pools, locker rooms, and communal showers increases contact with fungi. Nail injuries from sports, nail trimming, or pressure from tight shoes create entry points. Long-term moisture inside shoes with inadequate support raises risk of toenail infections, especially with prolonged sweating. Circulation problems in the legs related to diabetes or artery disease reduce nail defenses. A weakened immune system and family history also increase risk of toenail infections. A podiatrist can examine the nails, confirm the cause, guide treatment, and discuss surgery when necessary. For help with foot problems, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

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 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.

Gout is a type of arthritis that occurs when uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints, causing sudden and intense pain. Although often associated with men, women are also affected, particularly after menopause when changes in hormone levels can increase uric acid levels. Symptoms include swelling, redness, warmth, and sharp pain, most commonly in the big toe or other foot joints. Causes may include genetics, diet, obesity, certain medications, and underlying medical conditions. Left untreated, gout can lead to joint damage and decreased mobility. A podiatrist can evaluate symptoms, confirm a diagnosis, and provide treatment strategies including medication management, lifestyle guidance, and foot care to prevent flare-ups. If you have pain in the big toe, it  is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Robert Stein, DPM from South Shore Foot Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment 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.

Although the term “bunionette” may sound like something small and cute, it actually refers to a foot deformity. Indeed, a bunionette is a small bunion. While most bunions occur on the outer edges of big toes, bunionettes develop on the outside of the pinky toes. Bunionettes can cause pain and difficulty finding comfortable shoes that don’t rub against the bumps. Left untreated, bunionettes can also progressively worsen. In mild, asymptomatic cases, wearing wider, more comfortable shoes can prevent the condition from getting worse. In more severe cases, surgery can be used to correct the deformity. If you have a troublesome bunionette, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

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?

Podiatrists 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 provider.

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.

High arches can place added stress on the feet because they sit higher off the ground and are not able to lower enough to absorb shock. This often makes the heel tilt inward, which can shift weight toward the outer edge of the foot and the base of the big toe. When this area takes too much pressure, pain can develop under the big toe joint, including irritation of the tiny sesamoid bones beneath it. The midfoot is usually stiff in people with high-arched feet, which forces the tendons along the outer ankle to work harder and raises the risk of irritation in that region. The inward tilt of the heel can also increase pressure on the inner side of the ankle joint. A podiatrist can evaluate foot shape, recommend shoes or inserts that provide adequate support, and discuss whether surgery is needed to solve the problem. If you have high arches that are causing pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

If you have any concerns about your feet, 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.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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.

Foot exercises are an effective way to improve strength, flexibility, and overall foot health. Strengthening the arch supports balance, reduces strain on the plantar fascia, and helps prevent injuries. Foot yoga offers gentle, mindful movements that enhance mobility and alignment. Exercises may include big toe dissociation to improve control and coordination, spreading toes to create space and improve balance, deep plantar fascia stretches to relieve tension, and myofascial massage to release tightness in muscles and connective tissue. Regular practice can improve foot function, reduce discomfort, and enhance overall mobility. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot mechanics, recommend the most appropriate exercises, provide guidance on proper technique, and design a personalized plan to strengthen your feet. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional foot strengthening exercises. 

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, 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.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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.

Congenital foot deformities are structural abnormalities present at birth that affect the shape or function of an infant’s feet. One of the most recognized conditions is clubfoot, in which the foot turns inward and downward, making normal movement difficult without treatment. Early care often includes manual manipulations that gently guide the foot into a healthier position, followed by supportive methods to maintain correction as the child grows. A podiatrist can evaluate the deformity, create a personalized treatment plan, and guide families through each stage of care to improve long term mobility and foot health. If your child shows signs of a foot deformity, it is strongly suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can help you with effective management tips.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. 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.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

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.