Sores on the feet develop when pressure damages the skin and tissue beneath it. They frequently form over bony areas, especially the heels and ankles. People who spend long periods in bed, sit in a wheelchair, or have limited movement face increased risk. Diabetes and poor blood flow raise the risk, because wounds can be harder to notice and heal. Early signs include red or discolored skin, warmth, and tenderness. The area may feel firm or spongy. A sore can later become a blister or open wound, and, in severe cases, extend into deeper tissue.

Pressure is the main cause, but friction and sliding can add to the damage. Moisture can weaken the skin and make it more open to injury. Foot deformities, prominent bones, and shoes that create repeated pressure can lead to sores. Reduced feeling in the feet is concerning, because a patient may not notice pain or skin changes. A pressure sore should receive medical attention. Increasing redness, drainage, or swelling can point to infection. An unpleasant odor is another warning sign. Fever or spreading redness requires urgent care. Without treatment, the wound can deepen and affect muscle or bone.

A podiatrist can examine the pressure sore, measure its depth, and check blood flow and sensation in the foot. The evaluation also identifies the source of pressure and looks for infection. Treatment includes professional wound cleaning, dressings, and monitoring. The podiatrist can provide off-loading devices that shift weight away from the injured area. Orthotics or shoe changes can reduce harmful rubbing and pressure. For deeper sores, the podiatrist can remove damaged tissue to support healing and coordinate care with specialists. Early podiatric care can help limit tissue damage, reduce infection risk, and protect mobility. If you have pressure sores on your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions. 

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Lance Greiff, DPM from Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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.

An ankle fracture is a break in one or more bones that form the ankle joint. The injury can involve the tibia, which is the larger lower leg bone. It can also involve the fibula, the smaller bone on the outside of the leg. Less often, the talus, which connects the leg to the foot, is affected. The location of the break helps determine whether the ankle remains stable or becomes unstable. A stable fracture keeps the joint properly lined up. An unstable fracture allows the bones to shift. Types of ankle fractures depend on which part of the ankle is broken. Some involve the outside of the ankle, some affect the inside, and others involve both sides. The most serious fractures can affect three areas of the ankle joint. These injuries usually require more advanced treatment because the bones are no longer properly lined up.

Fractured ankles happen when the bones are forced beyond their normal limits. A sudden twist while playing sports can cause a break. Falling on uneven ground can also fracture the ankle. Car accidents and other high-impact injuries create enough force to break one or more bones. The type of injury depends on the direction and strength of the force. It also depends on the position of the foot when the accident occurs. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty standing or walking. 

A podiatrist can help by examining the ankle and ordering imaging studies to identify the exact location and pattern of the fracture. This information guides treatment and helps protect the ankle joint from further damage. Stable fractures sometimes heal without surgery, while unstable fractures may require surgery to restore proper alignment. Regular follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to monitor healing and check that the bones remain in the correct position. If you have symptoms of a broken ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. 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. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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 braces are supportive devices designed to stabilize the ankle joint and limit excessive movement that can lead to injury. They are commonly used for both prevention and recovery, especially in individuals who are active or have a history of ankle instability. Ankle braces come in several forms, including lace up support designs that provide adjustable compression and a secure fit. These braces help maintain proper alignment of the joint while allowing controlled movement, making them an effective tool for protecting the ankle during daily activities and physical exercise.

Symptoms that may indicate the need for an ankle brace include swelling, weakness, and a feeling of instability in the ankle. Individuals recovering from sprains or dealing with chronic conditions such as Achilles tendon injuries often benefit from added support. An ankle brace can help reduce strain on the Achilles tendon by limiting excessive motion and providing gentle compression. This support helps decrease inflammation and promotes a more stable walking pattern, which is essential for healing and long term joint health.

Risk factors that increase the need for ankle support include previous ankle injuries, high impact sports, and wearing poor footwear. Weak ligaments and reduced balance can also contribute to instability. Lace-up ankle braces are particularly helpful because they allow for a customized fit that adjusts to swelling and activity level. These braces provide consistent support throughout movement, helping reduce the risk of re-injury while improving confidence during physical activity.

Using an ankle brace as part of a comprehensive care plan can improve recovery and prevent further injury. It is important to pair bracing with strengthening exercises and proper footwear to support overall foot and ankle health. Early use of supportive devices can make a significant difference in healing outcomes. If you have foot pain and need to wear an ankle brace, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to explore appropriate treatment solutions, which may include using orthotics. 

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, 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.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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 hammertoe is a toe that bends downward at the middle joint instead of lying flat. This change in position most often affects the second toe, although it can develop in other toes as well. At first, the toe may still move freely, but it can become more rigid as the condition progresses. The abnormal bend can create pressure inside a shoe and cause pain while walking. Corns and calluses sometimes develop where the toe rubs against the shoe. A podiatrist can evaluate the shape of the toe, identify the cause of the deformity, and recommend treatment that improves comfort and function.

Several factors can contribute to a hammertoe. Muscle and tendon imbalance is one of the leading causes because it changes how the toe moves. Tendons are strong bands of tissue that connect muscles to bones and help control movement. Arthritis, previous injuries, and shoes that lack proper support can also increase the risk. Shoes that fit too tightly around the toes can place added pressure on the joints and make the deformity worse. A podiatrist performs a physical examination and checks how well the toe moves. X-rays help evaluate the position of the bones and determine how advanced the deformity has become.

Treatment depends on the severity of the hammertoe and how much it affects daily activities. A podiatrist can recommend custom orthotics to improve foot alignment and reduce pressure on the affected toe. Other treatment options include padding and splints to improve flexibility and support better movement. Prescription medications can also help reduce pain and inflammation. When the toe becomes stiff or other treatments do not provide enough relief, surgery can straighten the toe and improve function. Early treatment helps prevent the deformity from becoming more severe and supports healthier movement. If you have symptoms of hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Lance Greiff, DPM from Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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.