Greater Queens Podiatry, PLLC

(718) 229-0222

Monday, 17 October 2016

How to Tell If You Have Flat Feet

flat feet9If you have flat feet, you may be a part of the 30 percent of people who experience problems from the condition. Symptoms of flat feet include back and leg pain and fatigue from walking often. In order to tell if you have flat feet, you can wet your feet, then stand on a piece of paper to make an imprint. If your foot shows a full outline on the paper, this means you have flat feet. If you do have flat feet, make sure to avoid and prevent things that can exacerbate your condition. Wearing high heels, being overweight, working long hours on your feet, and strenuous exercise can make the pain caused by flat feet much worse.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Nicholas Megdanis from Greater Queens Podiatry PLLC. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What are Flat Feet?

Flat feet are a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. Standing about 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arch never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – if you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms:

Pain around the heel or arch area

Trouble standing on the tip toe.

Swelling around the inside of the ankle.

Flat look to one or both feet.

Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment:

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Bayside, New York. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Flat Feet

Monday, 10 October 2016

Gout: Major Condition in the UK

gout3Gout was found to be one of the most common conditions affecting people in the UK, as discovered by a 2014 study. Early-on diagnosis and treatment are both important for preventing progression of symptoms. Gout exists “as the third most common form of arthritis,” and is caused by increases in uric acid levels in the body, usually from consuming certain foods and drinks such as alcohol. See your doctor for proper diet management and weight management to help in the prevention of gout.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Nicholas Megdanis from Greater Queens Podiatry PLLC. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Bayside, New York. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Gout

Arthritis5The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a new biological drug designed to treat inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. The new drug, called Erelzi, is classified as a biosimilar, “a biological product approved on findings that it is highly similar to an already-approved biological product and has no clinically meaningful differences in terms of safety and effectiveness, according to the FDA.” The drug is given by injection and can also assist in the alleviation of symptoms with psoriatic arthritis or other conditions such as juvenile arthritis.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Dr. Nicholas Megdanis from Greater Queens Podiatry PLLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

- Swelling & pain in the feet
- Stiffness in the feet
- Pain on the ball or sole of feet
- Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Bayside, New York. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more on Rheumatoid Arthritis

foot care7Amari Cooper was suffering from a foot injury when he became “the first rookie in Oakland Raiders history to reach 1,000 receiving yards.” Cooper played throughout most of the 2015 season with plantar fasciitis, a condition that caused him foot pain. However, Cooper was confident in his ability to play. “[I]t really affected my game, but I was mentally tough and I fought through it,” he said.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries need proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Dr. Nicholas Megdanis from Greater Queens Podiatry PLLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Sport Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

●     Plantar Fasciitis

●     Plantar Fasciosis

●     Achilles Tendinitis

●     Achilles Tendon Rupture

●     Ankle Sprains

Sports-related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Bayside, New York. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about sports related injuries.

Monday, 19 September 2016

Foot Care for Diabetics

elderly feet 3It is important for people with diabetes to take extremely good care of their feet. Scientific research has been done to figure out why diabetics tend to have foot problems. Researchers have found that neuropathy, or nerve damage, can prevent an individual from being able to sense pain in their feet. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent foot-related diabetic complications from happening. Having good control of your blood sugar will protect viral nerve function. A lot of problems can also be prevented by simply having a healthy lifestyle, and getting routine check-ups.

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 Dr. Nicholas Megdanis from Greater Queens Podiatry PLLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including 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 because 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 Bayside, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Diabetic Foot Care

Monday, 12 September 2016

McCown Suffers Broken Foot

broken foot7Matt McCown, junior defensive tackle for Illinois State, was sidelined for six weeks with a broken foot. McCown started 9 out of 12 games last season. ISU coach Brock Spack was hopeful that McCown would recover in time to play in the game against North Dakota state in October. “Matt is really a leader, a hard worker,” Spack said. “You hate to lose him. But the good news is we’ll get him back.”

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Nicholas Megdanis from Greater Queens Podiatry PLLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

  • Bruising

  • Pain

  • Redness

  • Swelling

  • Blue (foot)

  • Numbness

  • Cold

  • Misshapen

  • Cuts

  • Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

Read more about Broken Feet

Monday, 05 September 2016

ITU Technology May Treat Heel Pain

heel pain01Plantar Fasciitis is a very common cause of heel pain. The condition causes severe heel pain within the first few steps one takes in the morning, and it is also causes pain during activity. Fortunately, there are treatment options for people with plantar fasciitis. Some options for those with plantar fasciitis include medications, shoe inserts, and stretching. ITU technology has also been used to help those with pain in their heels. ITU, which stands for intense therapeutic ultrasound, heals musculoskeletal injuries without breaking the skin.

Anyone can wind up suffering from heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Nicholas Megdanis from Greater Queens Podiatry PLLC. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Causes of Heel Pain

● Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

● Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

● Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

- Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  

- Wearing non-supportive shoes

- Weight change         

- Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a thing of the past.

With the advancements in technology and greater knowledge of how muscles and joints work, physical therapists can turn things around dramatically.  

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

Read more about Heel Pain

Monday, 29 August 2016

What Are Plantar Warts?

foot stretch massagePlantar warts develop on the bottom of our feet as round growths on the skin, described as brown dots. Warts are caused by the papillomavirus and usually go away on their own, typically not requiring any treatment. Avoid picking at the wart to prevent infection. A potential option for treating your wart is covering it up with tape, as “warts deprived of air and sun exposure sometimes die without the need for topical treatments.”

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet contact Dr. Nicholas Megdanis from Greater Queens Podiatry PLLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

·      Legions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy

·      Hard or thick callused spots

·      Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots

·      Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

·      Freezing

·      Electric tool removal

·      Laser Treatment

·      Topical Creams (prescription only)

·      Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, will help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bayside, New York. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Plantar warts
ankle surgeryKekuta Manneh, forward of the Vancouver Whitecaps, recently underwent surgery to repair a broken fifth metatarsal bone in his right foot. A timetable for his return was not released by the team, however head coach Carl Robinson has suggested Manneh can return this season. “Kekuta is an important member of the club and we’re happy to hear the surgery went well,” Robinson stated. “We anticipate he will make a complete recovery and will be back training with the group in the fall." This season Manneh has scored five goals and had two assists.    

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to fix a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Nicholas Megdanis from Greater Queens Podiatry PLLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to help with the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary are:

●      Removing foot deformities like bone spurs and bunions

●      Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues

●      Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

●      Bunionectomy for painful bunions

●      Surgical fusion for realignment of bones

●      Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Read more about foot surgery.
Monday, 15 August 2016

Hyperhidrosis and Your Feet

childrens feet 2Hyperhidrosis is the medical term for excessive sweating. Although hyperhidrosis only affects 3% of the global population, it is still viewed as a serious health condition. People who suffer from the condition are often self-conscious, anxious and depressed. Hyperhidrosis usually affects the hands, feet, and forehead of people who have it. Those with hyperhidrosis know that there is a strong body odor that is caused by the condition. It is important to wash every day and shave under your arms. Bacteria and moisture can easily become trapped in hair so it is recommended that you shave it off.

If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact Dr. Nicholas Megdanis from Greater Queens Podiatry PLLC. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Hyperhidrosis of the Feet

Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.

Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.

Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.

In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.

A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bayside, New York. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about hyperhidrosis of the feet.
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Contact Information

Bayside Office
4401 Francis Lewis Blvd
Suite L3B
Bayside, NY 11361

Phone: (718) 229-0222
Fax: (718) 717-0275

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