Tuesday, 23 July 2024 00:00

A sprained ankle occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle joint are stretched or torn, usually due to sudden twists or falls. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. Immediate relief tips for a sprained ankle include rest,  compression, and elevation. Resting the ankle prevents further injury, while compression with an elastic bandage helps control swelling, and elevating the ankle above heart level minimizes fluid buildup. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer treatment methods for this painful condition.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Lance Greiff, DPM from Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Mild to moderate bruising
  • Limited mobility
  • Swelling
  • Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Great Neck Bronx, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Ankle Sprains
Tuesday, 16 July 2024 00:00

Foot and ankle injuries are common among kids and adolescents who play sports, ranging from congenital variants to acute and chronic injuries. Congenital variants can include structural abnormalities present at birth. Osteochondroses, a group of disorders affecting the growth of bones in children and adolescents, can cause pain and swelling. Acute injuries, such as fractures and sprains, and chronic injuries, like stress fractures and tendonitis, are prevalent due to the repetitive stress of sports activities. Soft tissue injuries, including strains and ligament tears, are also frequent. Additionally, infections can complicate injuries if not properly treated. Podiatrists must consider systemic diseases such as inflammatory arthritis when a pediatric athlete presents with unexplained pain and swelling in one or more joints. Adolescents tend to sustain more injuries than younger children due to their increased participation in high-intensity sports and the physical changes during growth spurts. If your child has sustained a foot or ankle injury from playing sports or complains of associated pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Lance Greiff, DPM from Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

  • Achilles Tendonitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains
  • Broken Foot
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Stress Fractures
  • Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

Read more about Sports Related Foot And Ankle Injuries
Tuesday, 09 July 2024 00:00

Osteoarthritis progresses through four stages, each affecting the feet differently. In the early stage, the cartilage in the joints begins to wear down, causing mild pain and stiffness in the feet, often after physical activity. As the condition advances to the moderate stage, the cartilage damage worsens, leading to increased discomfort, swelling, and difficulty in moving the toes and ankles. The severe stage of osteoarthritis is characterized by significant cartilage loss, resulting in constant pain, inflammation, and reduced mobility. In the final stage, the cartilage is almost completely worn away, causing intense pain, deformities, and a drastic decrease in function. This progression impacts daily activities, emphasizing the need for early intervention. If your feet are affected by this type of arthritis, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Lance Greiff, DPM from Great Neck Podiatry. 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 Great Neck Bronx, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about How to Care for Your Arthritic Foot
Wednesday, 03 July 2024 00:00

Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.