Items filtered by date: April 2023

A bunion is a bony protrusion that forms on the side of the big toe and may cause toe pain. The pain may come from the joints in the big toe as the bunion pushes it out of alignment. The big toe may be swollen, red, and stiff, and may worsen until medical attention is received. This condition is caused by wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. A small bump can develop, causing a deformity in the big toe. This toe contributes significantly to walking, rising up on the balls of the feet, and maintaining the body’s balance. Toe pain can cause difficulty in accomplishing these moves, and relief is often sought. This can begin with choosing shoes that fit correctly and wearing custom-made orthotics may help the affected foot to regain alignment. Large bunions may cause the toes to shift toward each other, and the toe pain may become severe. If you have toe pain, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose a bunion, and offer you treatment to alleviate any toe pain it may cause.

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 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.

There are many reasons why people buy shoes. They may be needed to perform in high-intensity activities or for casual everyday walking. Whatever the reason, wearing shoes that fit correctly and adequately support the feet is beneficial. Research has shown that approximately two-thirds of people worldwide may have poor foot health from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. It is helpful to have an accurate foot measurement before purchasing shoes. This can be done by measuring the feet at the end of the day when they are at their largest and while wearing socks. Stand on a piece of paper taped to the floor and begin by tracing the outline of the foot, which may be easier if done by another person. After measuring the length and width, the correct shoe size can be found using a conversion chart. Alternatively, many shoe stores have a Brannock device, which is generally successful in determining the correct shoe size. If you have additional questions about buying shoes that fit correctly, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can help you find the knowledge you seek.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Lance Greiff, DPM from Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without 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.

Healthy feet allow seniors to stay independent longer. Foot care is essential to reaching this goal and keeping senior feet comfortable and healthy. Since the feet take one through a lifetime of mobility, it stands to reason that aging feet need extra attention. Over time, feet become flatter and wider. The fatty padding on the foot naturally wears down, and the bones and joints are exposed to more wear and tear. Simple foot problems, like blisters, can interfere with mobility and balance in older adults. More serious foot conditions, like ingrown toenails, sprains, or fractures, can increase the risk of falling and result in various health conditions. Simple foot care tips to help keep feet as healthy as possible include washing, drying, and moisturizing the feet daily, trimming nails straight across, and examining the feet for abnormalities, such as sores. Wearing properly fitted shoes that are sturdy and low-heeled is recommended. If you are an older person or taking care of one, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist among the doctors you visit to monitor any problems brewing and continue caring for the feet.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, 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.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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.

Wearing high heels can make you feel more attractive, but there is often a price to pay for this fashion. High heels can cause a host of foot problems that result in pain. Wearing them too often or for too long can cause other foot problems, such as hammertoes, bunions, or neuromas. Additionally, wearing high heels can put stress on the back, hips, and legs which can affect posture, gait, and balance. High heels place feet in an extended downward position and increase pressure on the forefoot. The rest of the body is thrown off and must compensate for the change in balance. Wearing high heels interferes with the ability to push off the ground with the toes efficiently. The rest of the body must work harder to propel the body forward. The higher the heel, the worse things can get. Trying to walk on uneven surfaces or with elevations and declines can be hazardous and increase the risk of injury. It is best for your health to wear lower-heeled shoes. Occasional high heel use is acceptable with frequent time off the feet and stretching and relaxing the feet while wearing. See a podiatrist to learn more about wearing high heels and getting help for the problems high heels may create is suggested.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, 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.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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.