Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, affecting people from all walks of life. It happens when the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot, the plantar fascia, becomes irritated or inflamed. Many people describe the pain as a sharp, stabbing sensation in the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest. Treatment for plantar fasciitis starts with conservative methods. Stretching exercises for the foot and calf, wearing proper footwear, and orthotics can make a significant difference. Anti-inflammatory medications often help reduce pain and swelling. More persistent cases may benefit from advanced options such as corticosteroid injections or possibly surgery. Because plantar fasciitis can worsen without proper care, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body and is essential for walking, running, and jumping. Unfortunately, it is also prone to several common injuries. Achilles tendinitis occurs when the tendon becomes inflamed from overuse or repetitive stress, often causing pain and stiffness at the back of the ankle. Another injury is Achilles tendinosis, which involves degeneration and thickening of the tendon over time. More serious injuries include partial tears or a complete rupture of the tendon, which can happen suddenly during sports or physical activity. Symptoms of Achilles injuries include pain, swelling, tenderness, and difficulty walking. Ignoring early warning signs can lead to more serious problems. If you are experiencing Achilles tendon pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Co-Op City, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Pain in the forefoot can result from various conditions that affect the bones, nerves, and soft tissues. Metatarsalgia occurs when the ball of the foot experiences excessive pressure, leading to inflammation and discomfort, often worsened by high-impact activities. Sesamoiditis involves inflammation of the small sesamoid bones beneath the big toe, commonly affecting individuals who engage in activities that place repetitive stress on the area. Morton’s neuroma develops when the tissue around a nerve thickens, causing sharp pain, tingling, or numbness between the toes. Toe pain can also result from arthritis, bunions, or improper footwear that crowds the toes. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose the cause, and offer effective treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists  from Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors 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 Co-Op City, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Fungal nail infections primarily affect toenails, causing them to thicken, become discolored, and occasionally separate from the nail bed. In mild cases, fungal toenail infections might not require immediate treatment, yet some patients have a higher risk of complications and should seek professional advice promptly. Risk factors include diabetes, psoriasis, peripheral arterial disease, smoking, or medications that weaken the immune system. Fungal infections typically develop from minor injuries near the nail. They can be spread by sharing personal items like nail clippers or towels, walking barefoot in moist public areas, or transferring athlete’s foot from the skin between toes to the toenails. Treatment is often challenging due to frequent recurrences, and may include prescription antifungal nail lacquers, or oral antifungal medications prescribed by a podiatrist. In severe cases, a podiatrist may recommend surgery to remove the affected nail completely. If you notice that your toenail appears infected, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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

Arthroscopic ankle surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that allows a podiatrist to diagnose and repair damaged tissues in the ankle joint. Using a small camera called an arthroscope, the podiatrist can assess the condition of bones, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons through small incisions. This method is commonly used to treat ligament tears, loose bone or cartilage fragments, and scar tissue that may be causing pain or limiting movement. Ankle arthroscopy can also help reduce discomfort caused by arthritis or impingement, where swollen tissues restrict joint motion. The procedure involves inserting surgical instruments through additional small incisions to repair or remove damaged structures. Compared to open surgery, arthroscopy generally results in less pain and a shorter recovery time. However, healing can vary depending on the severity of the damage and the extent of the repair. A podiatrist can evaluate whether arthroscopic ankle surgery is appropriate and provide guidance on the recovery process. If you would like more information about arthroscopic ankle repair, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists  from Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. 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 tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• 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 our office located in Co-Op City, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Fall prevention is essential for seniors, as falling can lead to serious injuries that impact their health and independence. Regular fitness activities that improve balance, strength, and flexibility can help seniors maintain stability and reduce the risk of falls. An eye exam is essential to ensure that vision problems, which can contribute to falls, are addressed. Seniors should also remove floor clutter and ensure their living space is free from obstacles like rugs or furniture that could cause tripping. Wearing supportive footwear, such as Velcro sneakers, provides better grip and stability compared to loose or high-heeled shoes. These simple yet effective steps can significantly lower the risk of falls, promote safety, and enhance the overall quality of life for seniors. If you are elderly or are caring for a senior citizen, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist as part of a healthcare team who can effectively monitor foot health.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Foot fractures can be painful and debilitating, with some more complex than others. Three common types include calcaneal fractures, Chopart fracture-dislocations, and metatarsal fractures. Calcaneal fractures, or heel bone fractures, usually result from high-impact injuries like falls or car accidents. They cause severe heel pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight. These fractures often require extensive recovery time and, in severe cases, surgery. Chopart fracture-dislocations affect the midfoot joint, often from high-energy trauma like twisting injuries or falls. This type of injury can be difficult to diagnose, leading to long-term instability if untreated. Symptoms include swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. Metatarsal fractures involve the long bones in the foot and commonly occur from direct impact, overuse, or stress. Pain, swelling, and tenderness are typical signs. For proper healing and long-term mobility for any type of foot fracture, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

Off-loading is essential for promoting healing in a wounded foot, as it reduces pressure on the affected area and prevents further damage. By redistributing weight away from the wound, off-loading minimizes pain, enhances blood flow, and accelerates tissue repair. Common methods include wearing specialized footwear, such as surgical shoes, total contact casts, or orthotic inserts, which cushion and protect the foot while allowing limited mobility. For severe wounds, crutches, knee scooters, or wheelchairs may be recommended to completely off-load weight. Regularly elevating the foot also helps reduce swelling and improve circulation. It is vital to keep weight off the wound to avoid reopening or worsening the injury. Proper off-loading techniques depend on the type, location, and severity of the wound. To ensure effective care and recovery, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a personalized treatment plan.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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