Items filtered by date: October 2024

Skiing relies heavily on the coordinated function of the feet for balance, control, and power. The toes grip and engage the ski boots, while the arches provide stability and absorb shock. When turning or shifting weight, the feet guide the skis, ensuring smooth transitions and precise movements. Proper foot alignment is essential for effective weight distribution, improving performance and reducing fatigue. Incorrect biomechanics, such as poor alignment or uneven weight distribution, can lead to foot problems or injuries. Conditions like overpronation or supination may strain muscles and ligaments, causing pain or instability. These imbalances can result in long-term damage if not addressed. If you have experienced a foot injury while skiing, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist. They can treat various foot conditions and offer guidance on improving foot technique, ensuring a safer and more effective skiing experience.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Cecilia Capuano-King, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Basketball is an exhilarating sport that can lead to various foot and ankle injuries due to its fast-paced nature. One common injury is a calf muscle strain that occurs from sudden movements or jumps, resulting in pain and stiffness in the lower leg. Plantar fasciitis is another frequent issue that results in inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, often causing sharp pain, especially the first steps after resting. Ankle sprains are prevalent as well, typically resulting from twisting or landing awkwardly, leading to swelling and bruising. Additionally, achilles tendonitis, an inflammation of the tendon connecting the calf to the heel, can develop over time due to repetitive stress. If you enjoy playing basketball and have endured a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can effectively treat these types of injuries.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Cecilia Capuano-King, DPM of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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

Diagnosing foot fractures, particularly metatarsal shaft fractures, involves a thorough evaluation by a podiatrist. These fractures commonly result from direct trauma, overuse, or sudden twisting movements. Symptoms patients typically experience include localized pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. A physical examination is essential for assessing tenderness and deformity. Diagnostic imaging, primarily an X-ray, is used to confirm the fracture and determine its severity. In some cases, a CT scan or MRI may be recommended for a more detailed view of the injury. Timely and accurate diagnosis is essential for appropriate treatment, which may include rest, immobilization, or in severe cases, surgery. If you have broken your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the type of fracture and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Cecilia Capuano-King, DPM from New York. Our doctor 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 Smithtown, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Eczema on the feet can cause discomfort and may appear in different forms. Included are atopic dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, neurodermatitis, and stasis dermatitis. Symptoms of eczema on the feet can range from itchy, dry, and inflamed skin to painful blisters or thickened, discolored patches. Factors such as genetics, stress, environmental triggers, and poor circulation can contribute to the development of eczema on the feet. Managing this condition requires proper care, including moisturizing to maintain the skin barrier, wearing appropriate footwear, and avoiding potential irritants. A podiatrist can help diagnose the specific type of eczema that affects your feet and recommend treatments. They may include topical medications or other therapies to reduce inflammation and prevent infection. If you have eczema on your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Cecilia Capuano-King, 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 office located in Smithtown, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, where it meets the long bone of the foot. Bunions develop when the big toe pushes towards the second toe, causing the joint at the base of the big toe to protrude. This misalignment is often made worse by wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, particularly those with high heels or a narrow toe box. Symptoms of bunions include pain, swelling, and redness surrounding the affected joint, and difficulty finding comfortable footwear. Over time, the misalignment can worsen, making daily activities uncomfortable. Treatment for bunions focuses on alleviating pain and preventing further progression. A podiatrist can discuss options that may include wearing wider, more supportive shoes, using orthotic devices to correct foot alignment, and performing exercises to improve joint mobility. In persistent cases, surgery may be considered. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a treatment plan.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Cecilia Capuano-King, DPM of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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