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Patients that have a medical condition known as plantar fasciitis may notice the pain that often accompanies this ailment is worse in the morning upon arising. It occurs as a result of an inflamed plantar fascia, which is the tissue on the sole of the foot that connects the heel to the toes. This can happen from an injury that has occurred, or from standing for extended periods of time throughout the day on a hard surface. Patients who have developed this condition may find moderate relief when the foot is elevated as frequently as possible. Additionally, it may feel better to wear shoes that have adequate cushioning in the heel area. If you feel you have plantar fasciitis, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer proper treatment options.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many people have tired feet at the end of a working day. Reflexology can help ease sore feet and may be beneficial in preventing specific foot conditions. During reflexology, a certain amount of pressure is applied to different parts of the feet to ease pain. Stretching the calves during reflexology may also help release tension that can build up in the legs during the day. A foot massage with essential oils can also be therapeutic for the feet and may positively enhance the emotional state of the patient. If you would like to learn more about different types of foot therapy, consult with a podiatrist.

Foot therapy is often necessary for those recovering from either foot deformities or foot injuries. If you have concerns regarding therapy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Most Common Injuries

People who are active or athletes are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is often important to take part in physical therapy in order to quickly get back on the right track. 

What to Do When Injured

Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.

During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. Physical therapy often involves:

Basic stretching and twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.

Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.

Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Research has indicated the feet may undergo changes as pregnancy develops. Many pregnant women notice a loss of arches in their feet, and this may be indicative of flat feet. This can be a result of the weight of the growing fetus, and hormone changes may play a significant role. It is common for the feet to become swollen, and this typically occurs in the second and third trimesters. Moderate relief can be obtained when the feet are elevated for frequent periods of time throughout the day. Additionally, it may be beneficial to reduce excess salt intake, and it can be helpful to drink plenty of water daily. If you would like more information about how pregnancy can affect the feet, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist.

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 one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Research has indicated patients who are obese may suffer from tendon damage in the feet and ankles. This may precede serious foot conditions. People who are obese may choose to wear shoes that have little or no support because they are easy to slip into, but these types of shoes can cause severe arch problems, and can lead to possible bone damage. Additionally, being excessively overweight can damage the plantar fascia, which is a band of tissue that is located on the bottom of the foot. This connects the heel to the toes, and plantar fasciitis may develop if it becomes inflamed. Children may endure structural changes to the feet if they are overweight, and this may change the way they walk. If you have concerns about how obesity can affect the feet, it is strongly suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can answer any questions or concerns you may have.

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A large bump on the side of the big toe may be indicative of a bunion. It is considered to be a bone deformity, and can develop from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. The skin may appear red on and surrounding the bony protrusion, and a callus may develop over it. Some patients can experience pain and discomfort with bunions, and it may be difficult to wear shoes. Relief may be found if larger size shoes are worn, in addition to wearing protective pads over it that can provide cushioning. If you are afflicted with a bunion, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide correct treatment options, which may include surgery for permanent removal.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

One of the injuries that many ballet dancers endure are ingrown toenails. It can occur as a result of balancing on the tips of the toes for the majority of the dance, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. The noticeable symptoms of this ailment often include the sides of the nail growing into the surrounding skin, and it may often be red and inflamed. Common causes for ballet dancers to develop ingrown toenails can include dancing for hours at a time during rehearsals and performances. Additionally, if the nails are trimmed incorrectly, this may cause the condition to develop. There are methods that can be implemented which may prevent ingrown toenails from forming. These can include trimming the nails straight across the toe, and keeping the toes and feet clean. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested to speak with a podiatrist who can treat this condition and can help you to avoid an infection from developing.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle pain can occur for a variety of reasons. A large percentage of ankle pain often includes ankle sprains, and this typically happens if the ankle rolls inwards. This can occur as a result of stepping off of a curb unexpectedly, which can cause the ligaments to overstretch and tear. The symptoms of an ankle sprain that many patients experience can include bruising on and around the affected site, swelling and tenderness, and it may even be difficult to walk. When treatment is started, it is important to keep the weight off of the foot as much as possible. This can be accomplished by using crutches, and frequently elevating the foot. Support may be found when an elastic bandage is wrapped around the ankle, or a brace may also be used. An ankle sprain is one form of ankle pain. If you have ankle pain for any reason, it is suggested to speak to a podiatrist who can offer the best treatment options.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

In the foot, arthritis causes inflammation and swelling of the cartilage and in the lining of the joints. Arthritic feet can result in a loss of mobility and independence, but early diagnosis will help significantly. Besides showing up hereditarily, some other causes of arthritis include bacterial and viral infections in the joints, ignored injuries in athletes and industrial workers, and bowel disorders such as colitis and ileitis that lead to arthritis. The three main types of arthritis most often found in the foot are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout. The symptoms to look for in arthritis are swelling in one or more of the joints, recurring pain or tenderness, redness or stiffness in the joints and any skin changes or rashes. There are also several treatments available for arthritis in the feet. These include physical therapy and foot exercises, aspirin and orthotics. Surgery would be a last resort option if the joints in the foot are extensively damaged and need to be replaced with artificial joints. If you feel you are developing some sort of arthritis in your feet, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist. 

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.