Morton’s neuroma is a painful thickening of tissue surrounding a nerve in the ball of the foot. It is benign, meaning it is not cancerous. The condition usually develops between the third and fourth toes, although it can also form between the second and third toes. Pressure on the nerve can cause burning pain, tingling, or numbness. Some patients describe feeling as though a pebble is trapped beneath the foot or a sock is bunched under the toes. Symptoms can spread into nearby toes and become worse with standing or activity.

The exact reason Morton’s neuroma begins is not always clear. Wearing high-heeled shoes that have a narrow toe box can squeeze the front of the foot and increase pressure on the nerve. Running and other high-impact activities can also irritate this area. Certain foot shapes or movement problems may place added stress on the ball of the foot. A podiatrist examines the painful area and gently presses the sides of the foot to check whether this brings on the symptoms. X-rays can rule out a fracture or another bone problem. An ultrasound or MRI scan may be ordered when the diagnosis remains uncertain.

Treatment from a podiatrist focuses on easing pressure and calming nerve irritation. The podiatrist may recommend shoes with a wide toe box, a low heel, and proper support. Custom orthotics can improve how pressure is distributed across the foot. Special padding can also reduce stress near the affected nerve. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, the podiatrist may provide an injection to reduce pain and inflammation. When these treatments do not provide enough relief, surgery may be considered to create more room for the nerve or remove the damaged section. If you have symptoms of Morton's neuroma, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Lance Greiff, DPM of Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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.

Flat feet develop when the arches along the inside of the feet are low or absent while standing. These arches help distribute body weight, maintain balance, and absorb shock with each step. Some people have flexible flat feet, where an arch appears when sitting or standing on tiptoes. Others have rigid flat feet, where the arch remains absent in every position. Flat feet do not always cause problems, but symptoms can develop when changes in foot structure place added stress on the feet and ankles.

Flat feet can be present from childhood or develop later in life. In adults, fallen arches can be related to aging, injury, or wear and tear. Other risk factors include diabetes, obesity, and rheumatoid arthritis. Symptoms can include tired or aching feet after standing for long periods of time. Patients can also experience swelling along the inside of the foot or ankle. Pain can extend into the ankles, legs, or back. Changes in toe position or flexibility can also occur. A tight Achilles tendon can contribute to flat feet by affecting normal foot movement.

A podiatrist can examine the arches and determine whether flat feet are flexible or rigid. The evaluation can also assess walking patterns, foot alignment, and areas of pain. Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause. A podiatrist can recommend custom orthotics to support the arches and improve how pressure is distributed across the feet. Treatment can also include targeted stretches or shoes with built-in arch support. Severe cases linked to structural problems can sometimes require surgery. Proper evaluation is especially important when fallen arches develop suddenly or begin interfering with comfortable movement. If you have pain from having flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief, treatment, and management tips.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Lance Greiff, DPM from Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of 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 care needs.

Ankle pain is discomfort affecting the ankle joint, surrounding muscles, or ligaments. It can develop gradually or occur suddenly after an injury. Pain may range from a dull ache to severe discomfort that makes walking difficult. Common symptoms include swelling, bruising, or stiffness. Tenderness, and reduced movement are also common. Ankle pain can affect daily activities, especially while standing, walking, or exercising. Understanding the cause can help guide appropriate care and prevent symptoms from becoming worse.

Several factors can contribute to ankle pain. Excessive exercise may place repeated stress on muscles, tendons, and joints, especially when activity increases too quickly. Wearing tight shoes can also create pressure around the ankle and affect foot movement. Other causes include sprains, tendon irritation, or overuse. Risk factors may include previous ankle injuries, physically demanding activities, and sudden changes in exercise routines. Paying attention to discomfort can help prevent minor problems from progressing.

A podiatrist can evaluate ankle pain by reviewing your symptoms, activity level, and injury history. The examination may assess swelling, tenderness, and foot strength. They may also check flexibility, and walking mechanics. Imaging tests may be recommended when a fracture or significant structural problem is suspected. Treatment depends on the underlying cause. A podiatrist may recommend activity modification, supportive footwear, or targeted exercises. More involved care may include bracing, physical therapy, or other treatments designed to reduce pain and restore ankle function.

Do not ignore ankle pain that persists, becomes severe, or interferes with movement. Resting from aggravating activities and wearing comfortable shoes may help reduce irritation. However, continued symptoms require a podiatric evaluation to identify the source and prevent further damage. Your podiatrist can develop a treatment plan based on your needs and monitor your progress during recovery. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle 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.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Pediatric flat feet occur when the arches of a child’s feet appear low or absent while standing. In many children, flexible flat feet are painless and part of normal development, especially during the early years of growth. Flexible flat feet mean the arch is visible when the child is sitting or standing on tiptoe, but it flattens while standing normally. However, some children experience discomfort, fatigue, balance problems, or difficulty keeping up with physical activities. Parents may notice uneven shoe wear, frequent tripping, ankle pain, or a walking pattern that appears unusual. Flat feet can sometimes place added strain on the muscles and joints of the feet and legs, particularly during sports or long periods of activity. Rigid flat feet occur when the arch remains stiff and absent even when the foot is not bearing weight, which may point to an underlying structural problem. A podiatrist can examine foot structure, evaluate walking mechanics, and determine the best treatment approach. If your child experiences ongoing foot pain or difficulty walking, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, 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.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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.