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Orthotics as a Solution for Children’s Foot Problems

Orthotics as a Solution for Children’s Foot Problems

Orthotics, special inserts that are worn inside the shoe, can provide foot support, promote healthy foot development, and help alleviate foot-related pain for children. Children's feet are continually growing and developing, and certain conditions, such as flat feet or foot misalignments, may benefit from orthotic intervention. Orthotics designed for children can help correct gait abnormalities, improve foot alignment, and minimize pain associated with common problems like plantar fasciitis or shin splints. By providing additional support to growing feet, orthotics contribute to optimal biomechanics and can prevent the progression of certain foot conditions. If your child is experiencing foot-related pain or other foot issues, it is suggested you consult with a podiatrist who can discuss the possibility of orthotics tailored to your child’s growing feet or other treatment solutions. 

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Cary Golub, DPM from New York. 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 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.

Read more about Ankle Foot Orthotics for Athletes

Foot Care for Pregnant Women

Foot Care for Pregnant Women

The natural weight that pregnant women gain causes their center of gravity to be completely altered. This causes them to have a new weight-bearing stance which adds pressure to the knees and feet. As a result, pregnant women often experience severe foot pain. The two most common foot issues experienced by women in their pregnancies are edema and over-pronation. It is important for all pregnant women to learn more about how to take care of their feet so they are more comfortable during their pregnancy.

Over-pronation, which is commonly referred to as flat feet, is caused when a person’s arch flattens out upon weight bearing. This causes the person’s feet to roll inward while walking. Pregnant women often experience this due to the sudden weight they gain.

Edema, also referred as swelling in the feet, typically occurs in the later part of the pregnancy. It is the result of the extra blood accumulated in the pregnant woman’s body. The enlarged uterus puts more pressure on the blood vessels in the pelvis which causes leg circulation to slow down. This causes blood to pool in the lower extremities.

Fortunately, there are ways to treat both edema and over-pronation. Edema can be treated by elevating the foot as often as possible. Wearing proper fitting footwear will also be helpful for those with edema. A treatment method for over-pronation could be orthotics. Orthotic inserts should be designed with appropriate arch support and medial rear foot for your foot.

It is best for pregnant women to buy new shoes during the day, because this is the time where swelling is at its peak. Pregnant women also shouldn’t rush when buying shoes. It is always advised that you make sure your shoes fit properly but this is especially important during pregnancy.

If you are a pregnant woman, you should consult with a podiatrist in order to make sure your feet are healthy throughout the entirety of your pregnancy.

Pregnancy-Related Foot Swelling and Alleviation Strategies

Pregnancy-Related Foot Swelling and Alleviation Strategies

Pregnancy, a momentous journey marked by various changes, also brings about alterations in the body, including swelling in the feet. This phenomenon, known as edema, is a common occurrence during pregnancy due to increased blood volume and pressure on the pelvic veins. The growing uterus exerts pressure on the vena cava, which hinders blood flow from the lower extremities and leads to fluid retention. Hormonal changes further contribute to this swelling by causing the body to retain more water. To find relief, elevation of the feet whenever possible helps reduce fluid buildup. Supportive footwear and avoiding prolonged periods of standing can alleviate the strain on the feet. Staying hydrated, incorporating gentle exercises like walking, and incorporating a low-sodium diet can also aid in managing pregnancy-related foot swelling. If you have foot swelling or pain in any area of your foot during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can help you to find additional relief measures.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Cary Golub, DPM from New York. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

  • Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
  • Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
  • Wear shoes with good arch support
  • Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
  • Elevate feet if you experience swelling
  • Massage your feet
  • Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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 and ankle needs.

Read more about Foot Care for Pregnant Women

Are You Suffering From Nerve Damage?

Are You Suffering From Nerve Damage?

Neuropathy is a condition that can lead to numbness or loss of sensation in the feet, but it can also cause pain. This condition is more likely to develop for those who are diabetic, obese, or with high blood pressure.

Ankle Pain

Ankle Pain

Pain experienced in the ankle can be caused by a multitude of conditions. While the most common cause is an ankle sprain, other possible problems can include arthritis, gout, ankle instability, an ankle fracture, nerve compression, or tendinitis. In more serious cases, ankle pain can be a sign of improper alignment of the foot or an infection.

Ankle pain can often be accompanied by symptoms such as redness, swelling, stiffness, and warmth in the affected area. Pain can be described differently depending on the condition: short, stabbing pain and a dull ache are some examples. If such symptoms are persistent and do not improve after time, be sure to schedule an appointment with your local podiatrist.

Depending on the condition causing your ankle pain, different treatments may be prescribed by your podiatrist. For ankle sprains, the first step in treatment involves rest, ice, elevation, and compression. Be sure to avoid placing pressure on the ankle, use an ice pack several times a day, and use a compression bandage and elevation to reduce swelling. Other, more serious conditions may require the assistance of certain drugs and medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), physical therapy, or even cortisone injections. 

Depending on the severity of your ankle pain and the condition behind it, recovery from ankle pain may take some time.

Consult with your foot and ankle doctor to best determine the cause of your ankle pain and the appropriate treatment.

Causes of Ankle Pain at Night

Causes of Ankle Pain at Night

Experiencing ankle pain at night is a common and distressing phenomenon that disrupts sleep and affects daily life. The root causes of this discomfort are diverse, ranging from common injuries to underlying health conditions. One prevalent contributor is ankle sprains or twists that may stem from injuries or small ligament tears and result in persistent pain and swelling. Plantar fasciitis, a leading cause of ankle pain, affects millions in the United States. It results in heel pain and is linked to chronic overload, whether from lifestyle or exercise. Ligament sprains, occurring during sudden foot movements or twists, are another common trigger of ankle pain, with exercise, walking, or missteps being potential instigators. Stress fractures, though not complete, can lead to nighttime ankle pain due to repeated stress on foot bones. Conditions such as gout, poor circulation, and arthritis also play a role in causing ankle discomfort. Addressing the root cause of nighttime ankle pain is pivotal for obtaining relief and restoring a peaceful night's sleep, promoting overall well being. For an exam and diagnosis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Cary Golub, DPM from New York. 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 Williston Park, and Long Beach, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

Read more about Ankle Pain

Diabetic Foot Conditions

Diabetic Foot Conditions

According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), diabetes is a condition that affects approximately 23.6 million Americans.  Around 750,000 new cases are diagnosed each year, and the disease’s most common form, Type 2 diabetes, makes up for 90 to 95 percent of these cases.  Type 2 diabetes is especially prevalent among older Americans, those who are obese, and those who lead sedentary lifestyles.

Complications of the disease may lead to several foot and ankle-related conditions.  The loss of nerve sensation, or neuropathy, can cause diabetics to lose feeling at the bottom of the feet and therefore leave them unaware of pain, pressure, and heat.  Decreased circulation is another complication of diabetes that can slow down the healing of wounds and injuries; this can lead to the development of foot ulcers.

To prevent foot ulcers from forming, diabetics should examine their feet every day for small cuts and wear shoes that curtail pressure.  Constant monitoring for the risk factors associated with ulcer formation can allow for early detection and therefore lessen the possibility of ulcers or, even worse, amputation.  The removal of calluses and ingrown toenails should be left to the podiatrist to avoid improper removal and possible infection.

Diabetic patients may also experience foot deformities due to complications in their feet, such as limited joint mobility, muscle atrophy, and decreased fat padding.  These complications can increase pressure in certain areas of the foot, which in turn can cause certain deformities, such as hammertoe, to form.  Another deformity, Charcot foot, develops due to the collapsing of microfractures in the bones of the feet.  The resulting deformity is a foot that is flattened and wider in appearance.

To help minimize pressure and prevent the development of these diabetes-related foot and ankle conditions, your podiatrist may consider using orthotics or special shoes.  Charcot foot may be treated using walkers, custom orthotic insoles, or non-weight-bearing or rigid weight-bearing casts or braces.  In more serious cases, surgery may be considered to treat more developed deformities.  Ulcers can be further cared for with the help of proper diet, medication to control glucose, intensive wound care, and infection treatment.

Progression of Diabetic Foot Problems

Progression of Diabetic Foot Problems

Diabetic foot problems associated with diabetes mellitus can affect one or both feet in type one or type two diabetes cases. These issues, often linked to nerve damage and circulatory problems inherent to diabetes, exhibit symptoms over time. Common diabetic foot problems include skin complications and structural foot alterations, foot ulcers, infections, and foot structure changes. The root cause of diabetic foot problems lies in inadequate insulin regulation, as diabetes disrupts insulin production or responsiveness. Elevated blood sugar levels, over time, inflict nerve damage, leading to peripheral neuropathy and hindered blood circulation, resulting in peripheral artery disease, or PAD. Peripheral neuropathy symptoms can consist of numbness, tingling, and diminished sensation in the feet, making ulcer detection challenging. Left untreated, infections can fester due to impaired blood flow, potentially leading to gangrene and tissue death. Early-stage diabetic foot problems often go unnoticed but can be identified by leg pain, numbness, and skin changes. Timely intervention is crucial. Diabetic foot issues progress at varying rates. Untreated complications may entail ulcers, corns, deformities, muscle weakness, and impaired blood flow. Seeking professional treatment for wounds and infections is vital, with treatments like wound dressings, antibiotics, off-loading devices, and debridement. In severe cases, surgical intervention, such as vascular procedures, skin grafts, or deformity correction may be necessary. If you suffer from diabetic foot problems, it is strongly suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist to monitor your feet and do all that is necessary to prevent problems from arising and taking care of those that do.

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 and ankle needs.

Read more about Diabetic Foot Conditions

Bunions

Bunions

A bunion is a bump that forms at the base of the big toe. Bunions form when the big toe pushes against the next toe, which forces the big toe joint to get bigger and stick out.  As a result, the skin over the bunion may start to appear red and it may feel sore.

There are risk factors that can increase your chances of developing bunions. People who wear high heels or ill-fitting shoes are more likely to develop them, in addition to those who have a genetic history of bunions or have rheumatoid arthritis.

The most obvious way to tell if you have a bunion is to look for the big toe pushing up against the toe next to it. Bunions produce a large protrusion at the base of the big toe and may or may not cause pain. Other symptoms are redness, swelling, and restricted movement of the big toe if you have arthritis. 

Nonsurgical methods are frequently used to treat bunions that aren’t severe. Some methods of nonsurgical treatment are orthotics, icing and resting the foot, taping the foot, and pain medication. Surgery is usually only required in extreme cases. However, if surgery is needed, some procedures may involve removing the swollen tissue from around the big toe joint, straightening the big toe by removing part of the bone, or joining the bones of your affected joint permanently.

Your podiatrist will diagnose your bunion by doing a thorough examination of your foot. He or she may also conduct an x-ray to determine the cause of the bunion and its severity.

Less Invasive Bunion Surgery

Less Invasive Bunion Surgery

Foot surgery is typically advised when less invasive treatments fail, or if the foot condition's long-term prognosis is poor. Patients often worry about perceived risks such as infection, swelling, and pain, as well as extended recovery periods impacting work and activities. However, these concerns are mainly linked to outdated surgical methods. Modern foot surgery, particularly minimally invasive techniques, uses smaller incisions and less surgical time, reducing postoperative risks and shortening recovery. For instance, bunion surgery has evolved from traditional open methods requiring larger incisions to keyhole surgeries with minimal incisions. This approach lessens infection risks, pain, and speeds up recovery. If you have a bunion or another foot condition that is not improving, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to see if you can benefit from minimally invasive foot surgery.

If you are suffering from bunions, 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 Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

  • Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
  • Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
  • Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
  • Orthotics or foot inserts
  • Surgery

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.

Read more about Bunions

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