Items filtered by date: December 2024

Psoriatic arthritis, or PsA, is a type of arthritis that can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the feet, toes, and ankles. People with psoriatic arthritis often experience pain in areas where the foot's tendons or ligaments attach to the bones, particularly in the heel or the bottom of the foot. This can make walking or standing for long periods difficult. Swelling can also affect the toes, making them look sausage-like, which can make daily movements uncomfortable. In addition, changes to the toenails, such as small dents, discoloration, or nails lifting away from the skin, are common. Stiffness in the ankle or foot joints is often worse in the morning or after sitting for a while, which can impede daily activities. Over time, if PsA is not managed properly, it can cause long-term joint damage and limit mobility. A podiatrist can provide treatments to reduce pain, improve foot function, and help you to stay active. If you have foot pain caused by psoriatic arthritis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact the foot specialists from Certified Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

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

Walking is an excellent way to stay healthy, improving heart health, boosting mood, and supporting weight management. However, your feet bear the impact of every step, so proper care is essential for a safe and comfortable walking routine. Start by choosing well-fitting footwear with good arch support, cushioning, and a roomy toe box. Replace shoes when they show signs of wear, as worn-out soles can lead to discomfort or injury. Pay attention to your feet after walking. Look for signs of blisters, redness, or pain, which may indicate improper footwear or overuse. Stretch your feet and calves regularly to maintain flexibility and avoid stiffness. Use moisture-wicking socks to prevent irritation and keep feet dry. If foot pain or issues develop, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist. They can address concerns and guide you toward a pain-free, enjoyable walking routine.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact the foot specialists from Certified Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctors to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Larchmont and Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A high ankle sprain is an injury to the ligaments that connect the tibia and fibula, the two bones of the lower leg, just above the ankle joint. Unlike a regular ankle sprain, which affects the ligaments surrounding the ankle joint, a high ankle sprain involves the syndesmotic ligaments, which help stabilize the lower leg. This type of sprain is less common but often more severe, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. High ankle sprains are typically caused by twisting or rotating the ankle, especially during sports activities like football, skiing, or basketball. A sudden force or impact, such as an awkward fall or tackle, can stretch or tear the ligaments. These sprains are often slow to heal and may require rest, or in severe cases, surgery for recovery. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and effectively treat ankle sprains.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact the foot specialists from Certified Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, often resulting in sharp pain in the bottom of the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged sitting. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes, becomes inflamed due to overuse, wearing poor footwear, or excessive pressure. To manage plantar fasciitis, stretching exercises like calf stretches, toe stretches, and plantar fascia stretches can help relieve tension and improve flexibility. Strengthening exercises for the foot and ankle can also aid in recovery. Additionally, wearing supportive shoes and using orthotic insoles can provide extra cushioning and protect the heel from further strain. A podiatrist can recommend personalized treatments, including custom orthotics, and guide you through proper care to prevent recurrence. If you are struggling with heel pain from plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to develop an effective treatment plan.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact the foot specialists from Certified Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

Lipedema and edema are conditions that can affect the feet, causing discomfort and swelling. Lipedema is a chronic disorder that causes abnormal fat accumulation, typically in the legs, hips, and sometimes the feet. It is often mistaken for obesity, but it is a distinct condition that does not respond well to diet or exercise. Edema, on the other hand, refers to fluid retention, which can cause swelling in the feet and ankles. Both conditions share symptoms like swelling, pain, and a feeling of heaviness, and they can be aggravated by standing for long periods of time, or wearing ill-fitting shoes. While the exact causes are not fully understood, genetic factors, hormonal changes, and poor circulation are believed to contribute. Treatment options include compression therapy, elevation, lymphatic drainage massage, and specialized footwear. A podiatrist can offer tailored treatment plans to manage symptoms, improve circulation, and relieve discomfort. If you are experiencing swelling or pain in your feet or ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact the foot specialists of Certified Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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