Blog

Ankle Fracture? Don’t Wait for Treatment

If you're suffering from an ankle fracture, professional attention shouldn't wait. Fractures may worsen over time and can make completing everyday activities incredibly difficult. See your specialist for treatment and guidance through the healing process. 

How Aging Affects Your Feet

As we age, the feet naturally undergo changes that can affect comfort, mobility, and overall health. Common changes include thickened or discolored toenails, joint stiffness, thinning skin, and reduced fat padding on the soles. Circulation may also decline, leading to cooler feet or changes in color, such as bluish or reddish tones. These changes can make walking more difficult and increase the risk of falls or injury. Joint stiffness may indicate arthritis, while numbness or tingling could be a sign of nerve issues or diabetes. Thickened toenails and dry skin can also make self-care harder and lead to infections. A podiatrist can evaluate these symptoms with a physical exam, medical history, and diagnostic tests to identify underlying conditions. Treatment may include custom orthotics, targeted exercises, nail care, or recommendations for supportive footwear. If you are noticing changes in your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment.

If you need your feet checked, contact Cary Golub, DPM of New York. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

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

Read more about Geriatrics and Podiatry

Foot Risks to Watch for in Zumba Classes

Zumba is a fun and energetic workout, but the fast-paced movements and frequent pivoting can place stress on the feet. Sudden direction changes may lead to ankle sprains or strains in the arches. Without proper footwear, repetitive impact can cause heel pain, tendon irritation, or pressure on the ball of the foot. Some participants may also develop blisters or bruised toenails from shoes that do not fit well or provide enough support. Hard studio floors can add to the strain, especially for those with flat feet or high arches. Taking precautions such as wearing well-cushioned shoes with good lateral support and stretching before and after class can help reduce the chance of injury. If you experience ongoing foot pain after dancing, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and guidance on protecting your feet while staying active.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Cary Golub, DPM from New York. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

  • Achilles Tendonitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains
  • Broken Foot
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Stress Fractures
  • Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Williston Park, and Long Beach, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Sports Related Foot And Ankle Injuries

Causes of and Caring for Blisters

Blisters on the feet often form from friction, usually when skin rubs against tight or poorly fitted shoes. This repeated pressure separates layers of skin, allowing fluid to collect. Blisters can also appear due to burns, cold exposure, allergic reactions, or infections. On the feet, these fluid-filled pockets can become painful, especially when walking. Popping a blister yourself is not recommended, as breaking the skin increases the risk of infection. People with diabetes or circulation issues should be especially cautious, as blisters can become infected more easily. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, warmth, or pus. A podiatrist can evaluate the blister, relieve pressure safely, and recommend treatment to reduce pain and protect the surrounding skin. If you have developed a problematic blister on your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Cary Golub, DPM of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

  • Bubble of skin filled with fluid
  • Redness
  • Moderate to severe pain
  • Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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

Read more about Blisters on the Feet

Morton’s Toe Can Lead To Ongoing Foot Pain

Morton’s toe is a foot structure where the second toe appears longer than the big toe. In fact, in most cases, the first bone of the big toe is shorter than normal. While it may seem like a minor difference, this shape can lead to a range of problems. The imbalance shifts pressure in the foot, often causing pain in the ball of the foot, calluses, and even arch discomfort. Over time, walking or standing for long periods may become more difficult. Custom orthotics can help redistribute weight more evenly and reduce strain. Proper footwear with good arch support and cushioning can also make daily activities more comfortable. Understanding this condition is the first step toward relief. If you have a longer second toe and are experiencing foot discomfort, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Cary Golub, DPM of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Trauma
  • Sports injury
  • Wearing shoes that are too tight
  • Arthritis
  • Gout
  • Corns and calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Blisters
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Sprains
  • Fractures (broken bones)
  • Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

  • Severe pain
  • Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
  • Signs of infection
  • Continued swelling
  • Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Williston Park, and Long Beach, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Toe Pain

Stop Your Toenail Fungus

Have you noticed discoloration of your toenails? Have they become thickened or brittle? If so, you may be experiencing symptoms of a fungal nail infection. For some, having a fungal nail can be embarrassing. Overcome your embarrassment, and get treated.

Symptoms and Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Feet

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is an autoimmune condition that often affects the joints in the feet, leading to pain and inflammation. In the feet, symptoms may include swelling, stiffness, and tenderness, particularly in the toes and the balls of the feet. Some individuals may notice warmth or redness around the joints, along with difficulty walking or wearing shoes comfortably. As the condition progresses, joint deformities and reduced mobility may develop. The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is not fully understood, but it involves the immune system mistakenly attacking the lining of the joints. Genetic factors, environmental triggers, and hormonal changes may all play a role. Early diagnosis and proper management are important to help reduce pain, preserve joint function, and maintain quality of life for individuals affected by this chronic condition. If you have symptoms of RA and your feet are affected, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Cary Golub, DPM of New York. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

  • Swelling and pain in the feet
  • Stiffness in the feet
  • Pain on the ball or sole of feet
  • Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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

Read more about Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Feet

Common Causes of Itchy Feet

Itchy feet can be an irritating and persistent problem with several possible causes. Skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema often lead to redness, flaking, and intense itching. These conditions may become worse with heat, moisture, or irritation from certain fabrics. Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that thrives in warm, damp environments like shoes and locker rooms, often leading to peeling, burning, and itching between the toes. Dry skin, especially in cooler weather, can also cause itching and discomfort, sometimes leading to small cracks or rough patches. Another possible cause of itchy feet is peripheral neuropathy, a condition that affects the nerves and can cause unusual sensations. If your feet itch, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the cause  and offer effective relief and treatment remedies.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Cary Golub, DPM from New York. 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 offices located in Williston Park, and Long Beach, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Foot Pain

What Is a Heel Spur?

A heel spur is a bony growth that develops on the underside of the heel bone, often where the plantar fascia attaches. It typically forms over time as a response to ongoing stress or pressure on the foot. One of the main contributing factors is aging, as the tissues naturally lose elasticity and strength. Abnormal stress from repetitive activities, poor foot function, or walking patterns can place excessive strain on the heel. Carrying extra weight increases the load on the feet, which can lead to small tears in the plantar fascia. These micro-tears trigger inflammation and can encourage calcium deposits to build up, forming a spur. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat heel spurs.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Cary Golub, DPM from New York. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

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

Read more about Heel Spurs

Everyday Habits for Healthier Feet

Maintaining good foot health is essential, especially as feet endure daily stress from walking, standing, and wearing shoes. Cleaning your feet thoroughly each day helps prevent infections and skin conditions, particularly between the toes where moisture can linger. Gentle foot exercises, such as toe curls and ankle rotations, promote circulation and maintain strength and flexibility. Rotating between different pairs of shoes allows footwear to air out and helps reduce pressure points, which can contribute to discomfort or injury. Paying attention to early signs of foot pain or changes in skin or nail health is important, as these can indicate underlying issues. Routine foot care, combined with regular check-ins from a podiatrist, can prevent small problems from becoming serious. If you experience ongoing foot discomfort, changes in appearance, or difficulty walking, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Cary Golub, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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

Read more about Every Day Foot Care

Connect With Us