A recent study conducted by Keele University has shown that gout is not related to foot fractures. This news contrasts with prior speculation that the two foot ailments were correlated. Gout is the most common form of inflammatory arthritis, and it is caused by a buildup of urate crystals in the joint. Some symptoms of gout include severe pain and swelling in the joints, and this pain is most commonly experienced in the big toe. Although the study suggests that gout itself is not related to foot fractures, there has been some evidence that suggests chronic inflammation may result in a foot fracture. Researchers at Keele University found that medications used to lower urate acid in those with gout didn't have an impact on one’s long-term risk of developing a fracture. If you have any questions regarding Gout or are experiencing any symptoms, a consultation with a podiatrist is suggested.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact our podiatrists from Greater Queens Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.
Symptoms
Risk Factors
Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.
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 care needs.
Read more about Everything You Need to Know About GoutFlat feet is a common foot condition that affects millions of Americans. The feet are the foundation of the body, and any misalignment that occurs from flat feet may affect the rest of it. An assessment is often performed to determine the severity of one's flat feet. The ankles may show signs of turning in, and this can an individual’s gait. There are several reasons why flat feet develop, such as an injury that has occurred, diseases like diabetes, or conditions that may develop from arthritis, which may alter the structure of the foot. You may notice pain and swelling surrounding the ankle, and this is a general sign that this condition may be present. Visit a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and possible treatment options.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact our podiatrists from Greater Queens Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flatfoot is 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. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches 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
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, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Flat FeetIt has often been recognized that many conditions concerning the feet may be indicative of the overall health of the body. If muscle spasms in the feet are experienced, it may be a result of certain vitamin deficiencies, which may cause dehydration. Additionally, if the feet are generally cold for a majority of the time, health issues such as diabetes or anemia may be present. Swollen and tender feet may represent the body’s inability to properly circulate the blood. Gout, a form of arthritis, is an extremely painful condition that typically affects men. This ailment is often triggered by a buildup of uric acid crystals, caused by ingesting excessive alcohol or meat. A condition referred to as foot drop indicates difficulty in lifting the front of the foot. This may be a result of the body incurring nerve damage, possibly originating from a leg injury. It’s suggested to consult with a podiatrist if you are affected by any of these conditions.
When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact our podiatrists from Greater Queens Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.
Systemic Diseases of the Feet
Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable. Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.
Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.
Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.
Diabetes of the Feet
Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.
Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet.
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 Systemic Diseases of the FootA recent survey has concluded that 8 out of 10 Americans have experienced some sort of foot problem. Depending on the specific condition, foot pain can cause problems throughout the day and may make completing everyday activities difficult. In order to prevent problematic foot conditions, you should make sure you are choosing the right shoes for your feet. When you are shopping for a new pair of shoes, you should ensure that there is at least half an inch of space between your longest toe and the top of the shoe. If you have foot pain, you shouldn't follow the adage, “If you can walk on it, it isn’t broken” because it isn’t true. If you are experiencing pain in your feet, you shouldn't hesitate to seek help from a podiatrist.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact our podiatrists from Greater Queens Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Everyday Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.
It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
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 Every Day Foot CareIf you have swollen ankles and feet during pregnancy, you are among the majority of the population that experience these uncomfortable side effects. An effective way to alleviate severely swollen ankles is to elevate your feet so they are higher than your heart. This technique makes it easier for additional fluids to drain from your legs that may have accumulated during pregnancy. Additionally, lying on your side while sleeping may result in less pressure the veins typically encounter. There can be physical changes that may occur, including feet that increase in size, or a change in the structure of the foot, which may affect the arch. Research has shown the importance of incorporating walking into your daily routine, periodically stretching your legs and including healthy foods in your daily food intake.
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 our podiatrists from Greater Queens Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctors 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?
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 Pregnancy and Foot HealthIt’s important to maintain proper foot care, and added weight can result in the development of numerous foot conditions. Being overweight may limit the type of exercise that is needed for correct body care, and the feet may be negatively affected. Edema, which is often referred to as swollen ankles, is a common side effect the feet may endure as a result of extra weight. The feet will be among the many parts of the body that will be positively affected after losing weight, which can include better blood circulation and more manageable edema. Choosing shoes with maximum support, which may typically consist of a sturdy sole, can aid the foot in achieving optimum comfort. Please schedule a consultation with a podiatrist to acquire additional information of how obesity can affect the feet
The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact our podiatrists from Greater Queens Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Obesity and Your Feet
People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.
Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity
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 care needs.
Read more about How Obesity Affects Your FeetThe majority of children are born with flat feet, and the foot does not fully develop until the teenage years. Recent research has shown there are benefits of encouraging your child to walk without shoes as often as possible. These include the ability to exercise the muscles in the feet by pointing and flexing the toes. The average age a child begins to walk is 12 months, and it’s important to measure the feet properly for the correct fit. Essential traits to look for when buying children’s shoes include noticing if the shoes have rubber soles, Velcro, or laces. The rubber soles may prevent skidding, and the Velcro or laces will properly support the foot. Children’s feet grow rapidly, and it’s suggested to obtain a proper measurement every so often as your child grows. Common foot ailments that affect children may include blisters, which typically results from poorly fitting shoes. If you notice symptoms of itchy feet, your child may have athlete’s foot. Please consult with a podiatrist to learn more about proper foot care for children.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact our podiatrists of Greater Queens Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
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 care needs.
Read more about What to Do to Keep Your Child’s Feet HealthyIf your daily routine consists of standing the majority of the day, you may develop a condition referred to as cracked heels. There are several additional reasons why this ailment may occur, including wearing shoes that do not support the back of the foot, being overweight and requiring the feet to endure additional pressure, and skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. The cracks in the skin, also referred to as fissures, may become painful, which could make walking and standing difficult to manage. If your skin is dry, it’s beneficial to utilize a moisturizer to aid the skin in retaining moisture. Additionally, cracked heels may be a symptom of athlete’s foot, which can lead to an infection possibly occurring through the breaks in the skin. Please consult a podiatrist for additional information about cracked heels and possible treatment options.
If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact our podiatrists from Greater Queens Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.
Ways to Help Heal Them
Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels
If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need.
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 care needs.
Read more about Solutions for Cracked HeelsThere are several early signs that can indicate you may have toenail fungus. Such indicators may include the nails becoming thick and yellowed, and may crumble when touched. An infection is likely to develop if the nail is left untreated, allowing the fungus to grow. The aging process may be a factor in developing this ailment, in addition to having poor blood circulation. Medical conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or athlete’s foot allow easier access for the fungus to enter the body through the tiny openings in the skin these conditions may cause. Toenail fungus lives in moist environments, and socks and shoes that are worn without proper ventilation make it ideal for this fungus to grow. There are several ways to prevent this condition from developing, and these may include trimming the nails straight across, wearing appropriate shoes in public showers or pools, and utilizing a moisturizer to prevent cracked skin. A consultation with a podiatrist is suggested for a complete diagnosis and possible treatment options that are right for you.
For more information about treatment, contact our podiatrists of Greater Queens Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.
Antifungals & Deterrence
Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.
Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Bayside, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Toenail FungusThere are many benefits for maintaining health and strength in the feet, and some can include improved muscle tone, circulation, and enhanced mood. While walking is considered to be one of the best exercises for the feet, recent research has suggested that stretching the feet prior to beginning a walk may be helpful in avoiding injuries. There are several effective choices for foot stretches, and it’s beneficial to combine workouts that include resistance exercises in addition to flexibility warm-ups. A powerful stretch to begin with involves sitting down and rotating the ankle in one direction while the foot is lifted, followed by moving the foot in the opposite direction and repeating on the other side. An effective resistance stretch for the heel consists of slipping your foot into an exercise band after wrapping it around the leg of a table, and a gentle stretch will be felt when the foot is flexed. For additional information on how to perform stretches for the feet, please consult with a podiatrist.
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with our podiatrists from Greater Queens Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Stretching the Feet
Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.
Great ways to stretch your feet:
Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.
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 care needs.
Read more about Stretching Your FeetIf you’ve been on an airplane for several hours, you may know that circulation problems in the feet can develop. It typically occurs when your feet have limited mobility due to small areas. The formation of blood clots can be a result of poor circulation and can be prevalent in diabetics. Generally, the symptoms are easily noticed and may consist of tingling, pain, and swelling in the area where the clot has formed. There are several ways to protect the feet from poor circulation, and these may include avoiding foods that are salty, stretching the feet as often as possible, and walking up and down the aisle of the airplane. If you experience symptoms of this ailment, please schedule a consultation with a podiatrist for more information on ways to avoid poor circulation.
Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact our podiatrists of Greater Queens Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Poor Circulation in the Feet
Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.
Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.
Causes
Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:
Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.
As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication.
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 Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Poor Blood Circulation in the FeetIt’s important to practice good foot care, and this is especially true of the elderly population. This may include checking the feet daily, and if this proves to be a difficult task, a family member may be able to help. Recent research has shown that it's beneficial to elevate the feet as much as possible, and this will enable the blood to circulate freely. The feet typically get larger as the aging process occurs, and a key element in having healthy feet is to choose shoes that fit properly and comfortably. Some of the foot problems that elderly people need to be aware of developing are fungal and bacterial conditions, and this can include athlete’s foot and warts. Prevention of these conditions and others such as corns, calluses, and ingrown toenails is imperative in maintaining good foot health. Please consider scheduling a consultation with a podiatrist for additional information on how to take care of elderly feet.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact our podiatrists from Greater Queens Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
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 Elderly and their FeetFlat feet is a common foot condition where young people typically have no painful symptoms, but may develop as they age. Flat feet may also be referred to as fallen arches, and commonly develop due to an inherited gene. The arch in the foot is not present or minimal, which causes the foot to lie flat against the floor while standing. The foot is comprised of 26 bones, in addition to numerous muscles and tendons. While walking, gravity from the weight of the body may cause pressure, often resulting in muscle imbalance, which may affect the arch of the foot. Age may also play a role in developing flat feet because the tendons surrounding the ankles may weaken, possibly causing the arches to fall. If you experience this condition, there are stretching exercises that can be performed to aid in preventing future foot issues from occurring. Please consider a consultation with a podiatrist if any pain is experienced for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact our podiatrists from Greater Queens Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flatfoot is 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. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches 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
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, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Flat FeetYour child may begin to walk at about 12 months of age. Recent research has shown that it’s beneficial to walk barefoot as much as possible, which may help strengthen the foot muscles. It’s important to measure the feet every few months in the early years to ensure a proper fit while choosing shoes. As your child gets older, common ailments that can occur may include athlete’s foot, ingrown toenails, and plantar warts. It’s crucial to maintain daily foot care, which includes washing the feet in lukewarm water and drying thoroughly between the toes. Additionally, complaints about heel pain can be a common occurrence, typically resulting from playing sports. If the pain becomes severe, a consultation with a podiatrist may be suggested to alleviate any discomfort and to learn about possible treatment options.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact our podiatrists of Greater Queens Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctors 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 office located in Bayside, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about What to Do to Keep Your Child’s Feet HealthyBayside Office 4401 Francis Lewis Blvd Suite L3B Bayside, NY 11361 Phone: (718) 229-0222 Fax: (718) 717-0275 | Monday: 9:30am - 7pm |
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