Items filtered by date: June 2022

Anyone who is active physically on a regular basis is a prime candidate for stress fractures. Among the main causes of these hairline cracks in a bone are changing your workout program, improper footwear, and improper technique. Going from running on turf to running on a road or other hard surface also may put you at risk. High-impact sports, such as soccer, running, basketball and dance, increase the likelihood of sustaining stress fractures. Non-athletes can also develop stress fractures, usually by increasing activity after refraining for a long time. Having osteoporosis and vitamin D deficiency, especially common among postmenopausal women, is another risk factor. If you have sustained stress fractures in the past, you are more likely to experience them again. If you suspect you may have developed stress fractures in your feet, it is a good idea to consult a podiatrist who can conduct a thorough examination and offer appropriate treatment options to reduce your pain.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Afsaneh Latifi, DPM from Lenox Hill Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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.

Arthritis can have painful effects on the feet, toes, and ankles. Some of the more common types of arthritis are described here. Osteoarthritis (OA) mainly affects the first metatarsal joint connecting the big toe to the foot, as well as the midfoot and ankle. It is a wear and tear arthritis because it causes cartilage in the joints to wear down, leading the bones to rub together. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the lining of the joints, including the ankle, heels, midfoot, and forefoot. Over time, the damage can lead to joint deformity and/or disability. Gout is an inflammatory type of arthritis caused by uric acid build up and crystallization in joints, often in the big toe of the foot. Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is also an inflammatory arthritis that can happen to those with psoriasis. It can affect the joints in the ankle as well as ligaments and tendons in the foot. Anyone with any type of arthritis can experience foot involvement, which can make it hard to walk and perform activities of daily life. While arthritis has no cure, treatment options exist to slow the progression of the disease and relieve symptoms. If you experience the pain of arthritis in your feet and ankles, seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can help you manage pain, stay active, and lead a fulfilling life.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Afsaneh Latifi, DPM from Lenox Hill Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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.

A corn on the foot can cause extreme pain despite its small size. A corn is defined as a small area of hardened skin that generally forms on top of the toes, or on the side of the pinky toe. Some people have corns that develop between the toes which are referred to as soft corns. This can occur from wearing shoes that are too tight which may cause excess pressure. Additionally, seed corns are typically found on the soles of the foot and may be seen in clusters. Many patients can find relief when thinner socks are worn and larger shoes are purchased. A protective pad may be worn over the corn which may help to reduce existing friction. If the corns are severe and are interfering with daily activities, an X-ray may be taken which can help to determine the cause. It is advised that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist if you suffer from corns, who can guide you toward correct options.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Afsaneh Latifi, DPM of Lenox Hill Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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.

Children’s feet may look like miniature versions of adult feet, but this is not true. They differ in shape and will change as they grow. The first year of life brings ample fat pads on the soles helping the feet to be soft and flexible. The arch will develop as the child begins to walk, and the feet will grow in length and width. It is beneficial for parents to have their child walk barefoot in order to help to strengthen the entire foot. The toes and the arch become stronger as the toes grip the floor, and growth can be restricted when tight shoes are worn. When children start to wear their first pair of shoes, it helps their feet when they have adequate cushioning and stability. Children of all ages can find it easier to wear shoes when they are easy to close, in addition to preventing feet from slipping. Research has indicated the average life of a pair of children’s shoes is four months, and it is advised that they be replaced approximately within this time frame. It is important for parents to purchase new shoes at the appropriate time because this can help to protect the feet against unwanted foot conditions. If you would like more information about what type of shoes to buy for your child, please consult with a podiatrist who can guide you in the right direction. 

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Afsaneh Latifi, DPM of Lenox Hill Podiatry. Our doctor 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 New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.