Are you often hiding your feet in closed-toe shoes, even at home? Crooked toes, including conditions like hammertoes, claw toes, and mallet toes, can cause embarrassment and discomfort for many individuals. They often result from a combination of genetic predisposition, wearing ill-fitting shoes, or underlying foot deformities. Besides the physical appearance, crooked toes can lead to pain, corns, and calluses due to friction against the footwear. Podiatrists offer various approaches to relieve symptoms and correct crooked toes. Conservative treatments may include wearing wider shoes, padding to reduce pressure, and custom orthotics to improve toe alignment. In more severe cases, surgical options like toe-straightening procedures may be recommended to alleviate pain and restore normal toe function. If you have bothersome crooked toes, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for tailored treatment and relief.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Emmanuel Bustos, DPM of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

Pregnancy is a transformative journey marked by numerous bodily changes, including those affecting the feet. As the body undergoes hormonal shifts and weight gain, the feet bear the brunt of these transformations, often resulting in the development of various foot conditions. Swelling, or edema, is a common occurrence due to fluid retention, causing the feet to appear puffy and uncomfortable. Additionally, the increased pressure on the arches may lead to the onset or exacerbation of conditions such as plantar fasciitis or flat feet. Hormonal changes can also impact ligaments and joints, potentially causing instability and discomfort in the ankles and feet. To mitigate these issues, pregnant individuals are advised to wear supportive footwear, elevate their feet when possible, and engage in gentle exercises to improve circulation and alleviate swelling. If you have developed foot conditions during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can guide you toward finding relief.

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 Emmanuel Bustos, DPM from New York. Our doctor 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?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Leaving cracked heels untreated poses several risks that can affect your health. When the skin on the heels becomes excessively dry and develops calluses, it leads to deep fissures or cracks. These openings increase the risk of foot infections and leave an entry point for bacteria. Cracked heels can also lead to pain, discomfort, and difficulty walking, which may interfere with day-to-day activities. In severe cases, untreated cracked heels may result in bleeding and increase the risk of cellulitis, a serious bacterial skin infection. Foot wounds may develop when cracked heels become infected, and this is especially important to avoid for people with diabetes and the associated loss of circulation in the feet. Cracked heels may also signal underlying health issues, such as vitamin deficiencies or thyroid disorders. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can treat the issue and prevent complications.

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 Emmanuel Bustos, DPM from New York. Our doctor 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

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

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 New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

In cases of a complete tear of the Achilles tendon, surgery becomes a necessary consideration. This procedure involves carefully bringing the torn ends of the tendon together and stitching them to promote healing. While Achilles tendon repair surgery is generally safe, it's not without risks. Complications can include nerve damage, foot swelling, and issues with blood flow. Further, there's a slight risk of re-rupture, emphasizing the need for thorough post-operative care and rehabilitation. Following surgery, diligent pain management and adherence to post-operative instructions are essential for a smooth recovery. This typically includes wearing a cast or splint, elevating the leg, and gradually reintroducing activities over several months. Full recovery can take up to nine months. If you believe you have torn your Achilles tendon injury or have concerns about treatment options, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist immediately for an exam, a diagnosis, and treatment options.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Emmanuel Bustos, DPM of New York. Our doctor 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 New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis, a common foot ailment, affects millions of individuals worldwide, causing discomfort and hindering mobility. This condition occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes, becomes inflamed or strained. It is characterized by sharp pain at the bottom of the foot, particularly near the heel, especially noticeable during the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest. While the exact cause remains elusive, factors such as overuse, improper footwear, high-impact activities, and tight calf muscles contribute to its onset. Plantar fasciitis is prevalent among athletes, runners, and individuals who spend extended periods on their feet. Fortunately, conservative treatments like rest, stretching exercises, and orthotic inserts, can alleviate symptoms and promote healing in many cases. However, persistent cases may require medical intervention, including corticosteroid injections or surgical procedures. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Emmanuel Bustos, DPM  from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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