The medical condition that is known as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can cause the patient to experience pain and discomfort, in addition to having deformed toes. It may be difficult to stand for extended periods of time, and the feet can ache for the majority of the day. The joints often become weak, which can be a result of tissue, bone, and cartilage breaking down. A common symptom is swelling, and patients may find it difficult to complete daily activities. The feet may change shape, and larger shoes may have to be worn that can accommodate the changing foot. Patients who are afflicted with RA can find relief when the feet are elevated, and it may feel better to soak the feet in warm water. If you have symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in the feet, it is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

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 one of our podiatrists of Family Foot Care of Long Island. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

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 and 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 feel free to contact our office located in Port Jefferson Station, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many people enjoy the feeling of stretching their feet. Stretching helps the overall foot to feel good, in addition to improving mobility and flexibility. There are specific stretches that are suggested for certain foot conditions such as bunions and plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is the portion of tissue which connects the heel to the toes, and it is located on the bottom of the foot. It may become stronger when the toes are pointed and flexed, or when the sole of the foot is rolled on a bottle. Bunions may be caused by wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. It is beneficial to place the ankle across the opposite thigh, and gently rotate the toes to each side. When patients stand for the majority of the day, the toes may become cramped and stiff, and existing discomfort may be relieved when the toes are stretched. For additional information about how to properly perform foot stretches, please consult with a podiatrist.

Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Care of Long Island. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first to determine if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous exercise, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.

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

The medical term for a common foot condition that is known as ingrown toenails is referred to as onychocryptosis. It is a painful ailment that develops as a result of the outer edges of the toenail growing into the surrounding skin. The symptoms that often accompany an ingrown toenail often include redness and swelling. Additionally, if the impacted area becomes infected, there may be a discharge. Ingrown toenails may develop for a variety of reasons. These can include trimming the toenails incorrectly, wearing shoes that do not fit properly, and having an existing medical condition such as diabetes. Many patients have found mild relief when the toe is soaked in warm water, as this may help to soften the edges of the nail. If you are afflicted with an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the correct treatment options.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot Care of Long Island. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

There are several areas in the foot that can feel pain due to specific conditions that may have developed. Heel pain may be indicative of plantar fasciitis and heel spurs, and can cause severe discomfort. Toe pain may signify a bunion, hammertoe, or the arthritic condition that is referred to as gout. A nerve condition that is known as Morton’s neuroma may cause pain in the area between the third and fourth toes, and can be caused by wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. If you are afflicted with any type of foot pain, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat various foot and ankle disorders.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Care of Long Island. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

The medical condition that is known as cracked heels can be uncomfortable and unsightly. Common signs of this ailment can include visible cracks in the skin, in addition to thick and peeling skin. It may occur as a result of wearing shoes that have an open back, or from standing for long periods of time throughout the day. Existing medical conditions that can include psoriasis, diabetes, and eczema may play a significant role in developing this condition. It may be beneficial to stay as hydrated as possible, and mild relief may be found when a good moisturizer is frequently applied. Cracked heels can become infected if they are not promptly treated. If you notice symptoms of this condition, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine what the best treatment is for you.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Care of Long Island. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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