Items filtered by date: August 2024

Heel pain affects people of all ages and lifestyles. It is often referred to by various names, including plantar fasciitis, policeman's heel, tennis heel, and jogger's feet. This type of pain typically stems from inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. Common causes include overuse, wearing improper footwear, sudden increases in activity, or standing for prolonged periods of time. While heel pain can be debilitating, several treatment options exist, ranging from conservative methods like rest and stretching exercises, to more aggressive interventions, such as orthotics or even surgery in severe cases. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist if you have heel pain. This foot doctor can provide an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan to prevent heel pain from worsening.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Darline Kulhan, DPM of Scarsdale Foot Specialists PC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

Flip-flops, while convenient and casual, are not ideal for foot health. Their lack of arch support and cushioning can lead to issues like foot pain, poor posture, and increased risk of injury. The minimal support may worsen conditions like plantar fasciitis and contribute to misalignment of the feet. Flip-flops also offer little protection from sharp objects or uneven surfaces, making them unsuitable for extended walking or physical activities. They are best worn for brief periods in low-risk environments, such as the poolside or beach, where minimal foot protection is needed. For daily wear or activities that involve prolonged standing or walking, opt for footwear that provides proper arch support and cushioning to promote overall foot health and comfort. Foot conditions may develop when flip flops are frequently worn. If this applies to you, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for treatment and who can guide you toward more appropriate shoe choices.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Darline Kulhan, DPM from Scarsdale Foot Specialists PC. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

• Ankle problems
• Hip problems
• Lower back problems
• Pain in the balls of the feet
• Problems with foot arches
• Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

• Sprained ankles
• Blisters
• Infections
• Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

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

The Achilles tendon, the strongest tendon in the body, connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and is important for walking, running, and jumping. Achilles tendon injuries, such as ruptures, often result from sudden increases in activity or trauma. Conservative treatment for Achilles tendon injuries includes rest, compression, and elevation, in addition to immobilization with a cast or brace to allow natural healing. This approach is typically recommended for less severe injuries or for patients who may not be suitable candidates for surgery. Minimally invasive Achilles tendon repair surgery involves making small incisions to stitch the torn ends of the tendon together. This method reduces the risk of infection, minimizes scarring, and often leads to faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgery. Choosing between conservative treatment and surgery depends on the injury's severity, the patient’s activity level, and overall health. If you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to help you determine the best course of treatment. 

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Darline Kulhan, DPM of Scarsdale Foot Specialists PC. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Running is a good way to stay in shape, but it can sometimes lead to foot pain. Major causes of foot pain in runners include overtraining, wearing inappropriate shoes, or having biomechanical issues. The constant impact of running puts extra stress on your feet. This can lead to plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and tendonitis. Overtraining without adequate rest can cause stress fractures in the ankles and long bones of the foot, as well as Achilles tendonitis. Footwear that lacks proper support and cushioning can result in plantar fasciitis and pain in the ball of the foot. A podiatrist can diagnose the exact cause of your foot pain, recommend the right type of footwear, and create custom orthotics to provide the necessary support. This foot doctor can also guide you through specific stretching and strengthening exercises to alleviate pain and prevent future injuries. Treatments like night splints or advanced therapies for persistent conditions may be provided. If you are experiencing foot pain after running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Darline Kulhan, DPM of Scarsdale Foot Specialists PC. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

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