Proper athletic shoe fitting is essential for protecting the feet, toes, and ankles from injury and strain. Shoes should bend where the foot bends, which is usually near the ball of the foot. The width must match the natural shape of the foot without squeezing the toes together. Because many people have feet of different sizes, both shoes should be tried on, with sizing based on the longest toe, which may not always be the big toe. Proper heel support helps prevent slipping and ankle instability, and adequate midfoot support allows smoother movement during activity. Shoe design features like rocker soles, stack height, and heel-to-toe drop are important factors. A podiatrist can evaluate the structure of the foot, leg length differences, or issues like Morton’s toe to guide shoe selection and help prevent injury. If you experience foot pain from the shoes you wear for your sport or activity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, appropriate treatment, and guidance.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Livingston Foot Care Specialists. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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

Stepping on a rogue object can turn a pleasant walk into a painful memory. We have all experienced that sudden, sharp sting of a puncture wound on the foot. While it may seem like a small annoyance, ignoring it can lead to bigger problems lurking beneath the surface. When a sharp item penetrates the skin, it can push dirt, bacteria, or pieces of the object itself deep into the tissue. This creates a perfect environment for infection. Even a small piece of glass or a splinter can cause significant trouble if not properly removed and treated. Your feet are your foundation, and their health is vital to your overall wellbeing. If you have a puncture wound, especially if it is deep, bleeds significantly, or if you see signs of redness and swelling, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist as quickly as possible for appropriate treatment.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Livingston Foot Care Specialists. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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

Pain on the inner side of the foot, known as medial foot pain, can affect the area from the inside of the heel through the arch to the big toe. A common cause of medial foot pain is posterior tibial tendonitis. This is an irritation of the tendon that helps support the arch and allows you to push off when walking. Stress fractures, which are small cracks in bones such as the navicular or first metatarsal, may also cause this type of pain that often worsens with activity. Plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, may also cause inner heel pain. A podiatrist can identify the source of discomfort and provide the proper treatment. If you have pain in the middle of the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this type of foot pain. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Livingston Foot Care Specialists. 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 North Bellmore, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Achilles tendinitis is an overuse injury that affects the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. When this tendon becomes irritated, it can cause stiffness, swelling, and pain along the back of the ankle or heel. The discomfort often feels worse in the morning or after physical activity such as running, climbing stairs, or playing sports. This condition can develop from suddenly increasing exercise, wearing unsupportive shoes, or having foot structures that place extra stress on the tendon. Rest and stretching can ease early symptoms, while wearing supportive footwear and targeted exercises may help in ongoing cases. Severe or untreated tendinitis can lead to tears in the tendon, making prompt care important. With the right treatment, most people recover well and return to their normal activities. If you have pain in your heel or Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for proper care.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Livingston Foot Care Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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