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June 2023

Tuesday, 27 June 2023 00:00

Common Foot Problems During Pregnancy

More than half of pregnant women experience some type of foot problem. Common ailments can include collapsed arches, swelling, cracked heels, and foot pain. Fallen arches are largely due to a weight gain and the release of a hormone called relaxin. This hormone, which relaxes the ligaments in the feet and ankles as well as other body parts, contributes to the appearance of flat feet. A common complaint during pregnancy is swollen feet, which is the result of a buildup of fluid in the lower extremities. Pregnant women are cautioned not to stand for long periods of time, and to keep their feet elevated as often as possible. Heel pain caused by an inflammation of the plantar fascia can be treated by wearing shoes that have more arch support and ample cushioning. Certain exercises can also help to reduce the symptoms. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause the skin to dry out, and as it becomes more difficult to reach the feet to keep them properly moisturized, cracked heels may develop. These can become painful and lead to infection if ignored. If you are experiencing any foot problems during pregnancy, it is suggested that you make an appointment 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 Dr. Larry Cohen from New York City. 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 Midtown, Manhattan . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 20 June 2023 00:00

The Function of the Sesamoid Bones

There are bones that are located underneath the big toe that include the sesamoid bones. Inflammation of them can cause the foot condition that is known as sesamoiditis, and can happen from overuse. People who enjoy running may be prone to developing sesamoiditis, and the repetitive running motion may cause the sesamoid bones to become injured. The sesamoid bones protect the surrounding tendons, and also increase the strength of the muscle. Additionally, they act as a lever and can take the majority of the weight off of the inside of the foot. Common symptoms that are associated with this condition can include swelling and tenderness under the foot, and patients may limp to compensate for the discomfort. Treatment generally begins with reducing existing pain and implementing methods that can protect the foot from further injury. If you have foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose sesamoiditis, and offer additional treatment options.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. Larry Cohen of New York City. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

  • Sudden increase in activity
  • Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
  • Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

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Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

Published in Blog
Tuesday, 13 June 2023 00:00

Facts About Children’s Feet

There are basic facts involving children’s feet that are interesting to know. The bones in children’s feet do not fully develop until the age of 13, and it is helpful to provide them with shoes that have the necessary support as they grow. This is crucial in maintaining good foot health. Many parents realize they are buying shoes at an accelerated rate during the first few years after birth. Research has shown the feet grow the fastest in the first three years. Flexible and comfortable shoes are ideal to purchase, and this can help the child to get accustomed to their growing feet. The feet house one-quarter of the bones that are in the body, and the majority of babies are born with flat feet. The arch generally develops during the teenage years, and having an abnormal foot structure may cause flat feet to lead into adulthood. If you would like more information about children’s foot health, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Larry Cohen of New York City. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

  • Make sure their shoes fit properly
  • Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
  • Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
  • Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
  • Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
  • Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
  • Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
  • Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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

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Published in Blog
Tuesday, 06 June 2023 00:00

Gout Often Flares up at Night

The joints in the big toe are affected with the condition that is known as gout. This painful arthritic condition happens as a result of excess uric acid in the blood. This can be caused by genetic reasons or from eating foods that are high in purines. These types of foods include shellfish, red meat, and drinks that are made with large amounts of sugar. Gout attacks generally begin at night and may last for several weeks. This condition can be managed when lifestyle changes are implemented, such as replacing some of the foods that are eaten with healthier choices. It is beneficial to engage in a gentle exercise program on a regular basis, in addition to drinking plenty of water daily. People who are overweight may be prone to developing gout, and additional weight may be lost when they limit the type of, and amount of, foods that are eaten. If you have had one or frequent gout attacks, it is strongly suggested that a podiatrist is contacted who can help you to manage, and possibly prevent, this uncomfortable condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Larry Cohen from New York City. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

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