Feet work hard every day, so it is no surprise that they are prone to a variety of issues. Some of the most common foot problems include bunions, which cause a painful bump at the base of the big toe, and plantar fasciitis, a leading cause of heel pain. Flat feet, high arches, and hammertoes can also lead to discomfort and imbalance. Corns, calluses, and ingrown toenails are often caused by pressure or wearing poor-fitting shoes. Fungal infections like athlete’s foot or toenail fungus are also common, especially in damp environments. Overuse, aging, and medical conditions such as diabetes or arthritis can contribute to or worsen these issues. While some problems may improve with simple changes in footwear or home care, persistent pain or changes in the appearance of the feet should not be ignored, and it is suggested that you see a podiatrist.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Mital Patel, DPM from South Shore Podiatry. Our doctor 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 Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of the nail grows into the skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. One helpful treatment is a gutter splint. This is a small, smooth tube placed under the edge of the nail to gently lift it away from the skin. The splint takes pressure off the sore area and gives the skin a chance to heal. Over time, the nail grows out in a better position. Gutter splints are used when the problem keeps coming back or when surgery is not the best option. They are safe, do not hurt, and can be a good choice for both children and adults. A podiatrist will make sure the splint fits right and teach you how to care for your toe at home. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

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 Mital Patel, DPM of South Shore Podiatry. Our doctor 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 Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pain in the ball of the foot, known as metatarsalgia, is a condition that affects many people. It often feels like a sharp, burning, or aching pain in the area between the arch and the toes. Common causes include wearing shoes that lack proper support or cushioning, high-impact activities that place excessive pressure on the forefoot, and foot deformities such as bunions or hammertoes. Other possible reasons for forefoot pain include nerve problems like Morton’s neuroma or thinning of the fat pad that cushions the bones in the ball of the foot. Without proper care, the pain may worsen over time and interfere with daily activities. If you are experiencing persistent pain in the ball of your foot, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan that can relieve discomfort and help prevent further complications.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Mital Patel, DPM of South Shore Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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