Falls are a major concern for older adults, often leading to injuries that affect mobility and independence. Foot health plays an important role in maintaining balance and stability. The feet provide a foundation for standing and walking, helping the body adjust to uneven surfaces. When foot pain, weakness, or reduced sensation develops, maintaining balance may become more difficult. Conditions such as arthritis, bunions, and nerve damage may affect how the feet function during everyday activities. Poorly fitting footwear may also increase the risk of slipping or losing stability. Shoes that lack proper support or have worn soles may make walking less secure. Understanding the connection between foot health and fall prevention is important for individuals experiencing changes in mobility as they age.

Several foot-related problems increase the likelihood of falls. Persistent foot pain sometimes causes individuals to change their walking patterns, affecting balance and coordination. Reduced sensation in the feet, often associated with peripheral neuropathy, makes it harder to detect changes in the ground beneath them. Limited ankle movement or weakened foot muscles often interfere with stability. Footwear is another important consideration in falls prevention. Shoes with secure fastenings, supportive heels, and slip-resistant soles provide greater stability during movement. In contrast, loose-fitting shoes or footwear with poor traction increase the risk of stumbling. Changes in foot shape, including painful toe deformities, also make finding supportive footwear more difficult. These problems sometimes develop gradually, making changes in walking ability less noticeable. Recognizing foot discomfort and balance difficulties helps identify factors that contribute to falls.

Podiatric care supports falls prevention by identifying foot problems that affect walking, balance, and stability. A podiatrist evaluates foot structure, joint mobility, and areas of discomfort to determine whether these factors contribute to an increased risk of falling. During an examination, the podiatrist may assess walking patterns and review footwear for proper fit and support. Depending on the findings, treatment may address painful foot conditions, improve pressure distribution, or provide recommendations for supportive footwear. Custom orthotics may also be prescribed when additional foot support is appropriate. Podiatric care focuses on maintaining comfortable movement and addressing physical limitations that may affect stability. Regular evaluations are particularly valuable for older adults experiencing changes in foot function. If you are experiencing foot pain, balance difficulties, or concerns about falling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate falls-prevention care.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Lance Greiff, DPM from Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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.

Blisters are small pockets of fluid that form beneath the outer layer of skin. On the feet, they frequently develop when repeated rubbing or pressure damages the skin. Wearing shoes that are too tight or that rub against certain areas of the foot contribute to blister formation. Moisture inside shoes also increases friction against the skin. A blister causes pain, tenderness, and redness around the affected area. Some blisters contain clear fluid, while others contain blood after greater skin damage. Blisters commonly develop on the heels, toes, or sides of the feet. Pain becomes more noticeable when walking because shoes continue rubbing against the irritated area. Although some blisters are minor, larger or painful blisters interfere with normal activities and require professional attention.

A podiatrist examines a blister and determines how seriously the skin has been damaged. An evaluation includes checking the blister's size, location, and surrounding skin. The podiatrist also looks for signs of infection or other problems that could affect healing. Treatment depends on the condition of the blister and what caused it. A podiatrist can safely drain certain painful blisters while protecting the skin covering the affected area. Professional treatment also includes protective padding to reduce pressure and friction. When infection is present, the podiatrist provides appropriate treatment to address it. The feet can also be evaluated for pressure points or structural problems that contribute to repeated blister formation.

Repeated blisters make walking uncomfortable and cause patients to change how they place weight on their feet. These changes create added pressure on other parts of the foot. A podiatrist identifies sources of friction and determines whether shoes are contributing to the problem. Professional care focuses on protecting damaged skin, reducing pressure, and supporting proper foot function. A podiatrist also recommends properly-fitting shoes or custom devices when foot structure contributes to repeated rubbing. Follow-up care helps monitor healing and reduce the chance of complications. If you have developed foot blisters, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and prevention tips.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Lance Greiff, DPM of Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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.

Ball-of-foot-pain while running is a common complaint that can make this activity uncomfortable. One frequent cause is metatarsalgia. This a condition involving irritation and inflammation around the long bones of the feet, called metatarsals. Pain may feel sharp, aching, or like there is a pebble inside your shoe. Symptoms can become stronger during running, walking, or standing for long periods. Some runners also notice tenderness, numbness, or discomfort when pushing off.

Several factors can contribute to metatarsalgia and running-related foot pain. Intense training can repeatedly stress the forefoot before tissues have enough time to recover. A sudden increase in mileage, speed, or frequency can also increase pressure. Foot structure matters because high arches, flat feet, and certain toe positions can change how weight moves across the foot. Excess weight may add further stress to the metatarsals. Poorly fitting shoes, worn cushioning, or hard running surfaces increase irritation.

Risk factors include high-impact sports, rapid training changes, and shoes that lack adequate support. Arthritis and foot deformities also affect pressure distribution. A podiatrist will examine your feet, watch your walking or running pattern, and check for tenderness or swelling. Imaging tests may be recommended when a stress fracture needs to be ruled out. Treatment may include activity changes, supportive footwear, or custom orthotics. Padding can also help reduce pressure while the foot heals.

Returning to running too quickly can prolong symptoms, so gradual recovery is important. A podiatrist identifies the underlying cause and creates a treatment plan based on your foot structure, and activity level. If ball-of-foot-pain is interfering with running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, enabling you to return to this popular activity.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Lance Greiff, DPM from Great Neck Podiatry. 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 Great Neck Bronx, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A lump on the toe can develop for many reasons and may appear on the top, bottom, or side of the toe. The lump may feel hard, soft, or tender, depending on its cause. Some bumps are painless and remain small, while others can become painful while walking or wearing shoes. Common causes include bunions, tailor's bunions, and other structural changes. 

A bunion is a common source of a noticeable bump near the base of the big toe. It develops when the big toe gradually shifts toward the smaller toes while the joint moves outward. A tailor's bunion, also called a bunionette, develops near the base of the little toe, and can create a bump along the outside of the foot. Hallux rigidus is another possible cause of a hard bump near the big toe joint. This condition involves arthritis and stiffness of the joint, which can make bending the big toe painful or difficult. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, and discomfort when shoes press against the affected area.

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing lumps on the toes. Genetics and inherited foot structure may contribute to bunions and other alignment problems. Shoes with a narrow toe box can place repeated pressure on the toes and may worsen existing deformities. Arthritis, abnormal foot mechanics, and prolonged standing can also contribute. People who develop recurring corns or calluses may notice thickened areas that feel like lumps. 

A podiatrist can examine a toe lump and determine whether it is related to bone alignment, joint changes, pressure, skin thickening, or another condition. The evaluation may include checking the location, joint movement, and overall foot structure. If you have a hard, soft, or growing lump on your toe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Lance Greiff, DPM of Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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