A broken pinky toe, while seemingly minor, can cause significant discomfort and affect daily routines. Typically occurring from direct trauma such as stubbing against furniture or dropping a heavy object on the foot, a broken pinky toe can cause intense pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. However, conditions like stress fractures, sprains, or dislocations can mimic similar symptoms, complicating self-diagnosis. Stress fractures result from repetitive stress on the toe, sprains involve stretching or tearing of ligaments, and dislocations occur when the bones are displaced from their normal position. Seeking a podiatrist's expertise is suggested for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Podiatrists employ various diagnostic tools, such as physical examination, X-rays, or MRI scans, to identify the specific issue.For a proper diagnosis, appropriate treatment plan, ranging from rest and immobilization to surgery, if necessary, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Cary Golub, DPM of New York. 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 Williston Park, and Long Beach, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Children's feet undergo significant changes as they grow, making proper shoe selection an important consideration. Typically, infants' feet are soft and pliable, with bones gradually forming over time. They usually start walking between nine and 18 months, signaling the need for wearing supportive shoes to protect their delicate feet. As they grow, their feet require shoes with adequate room for movement and growth, typically needing replacements every few months to accommodate size changes. Parents should watch for signs such as blisters, redness, or complaints of discomfort, indicating that shoes may be too small. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist can help address any developmental concerns, such as flat feet or gait abnormalities, ensuring healthy foot development. If you have an infant, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a consultation on proper foot care and footwear to set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy walking and foot function.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Cary Golub, DPM of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

Foot protection is an often overlooked but critical aspect of workplace safety across various industries. Regardless of the job type, from construction sites to office environments, feet are susceptible to many hazards that can lead to injuries and discomfort. In industrial settings, heavy machinery, falling objects, and sharp materials pose significant risks to foot safety. Properly fitted and durable safety footwear can mitigate these dangers by providing impact resistance and shielding against punctures and crush injuries. Even in office settings, where the risks may seem minimal, slips, trips, and falls can result in painful foot injuries. Wearing comfortable and supportive footwear can help prevent these accidents and promote overall well-being during long hours of standing or walking. Employers play a pivotal role in ensuring that appropriate foot protection measures are in place, including providing employees with access to quality safety footwear and enforcing safety protocols. If you are seeking additional information about what type of foot protection to wear for your profession, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Cary Golub, DPM from New York. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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

Caring for diabetic feet is imperative for preventing serious problems. Diabetes can lead to nerve damage, known as neuropathy, causing feet to become insensitive to pain, heat, and pressure. Consequently, minor injuries can go unnoticed, leading to infections, ulcers, or even amputation if left untreated. Plus, poor blood circulation associated with diabetes slows wound healing, increasing the risk of infections. Diabetic feet require meticulous care, including regular inspections for cuts, blisters, or sores, as well as maintaining proper hygiene. Trimming toenails straight across reduces the risk of ingrown nails and potential infections. It is essential to wear well-fitted shoes and socks to prevent rubbing and pressure points that can lead to skin breakdown. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for routine foot checks for early detection of any issues.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Cary Golub, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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