Children's feet are a critical part of their development. Children's feet continue to mature until about age 13. For that reason, providing them with appropriate shoes from an early age is important for their natural development. Kids experience rapid growth, with up to nine size changes in their first three years. Regular measurements and well-fitted shoes are necessary during this period to prevent deformities. Moreover, children's feet endure about three times more stress than adults due to their high activity levels, making shoes with shock absorption, proper footbeds, and durability vital. Additionally, it is important to recognize that foot problems in adulthood often stem from childhood issues, like ill-fitting shoes, emphasizing the importance of proper footwear. Furthermore, arch support for children differs from that of adults, as children's arches develop later. Look for shoes that provide arch support or high-quality footbeds. Breathable materials like leather and canvas are ideal, while shoes made of plastics should be avoided. The right shoe size matters as shoes that are too small or too large can lead to discomfort and hinder proper growth. In the debate between soft and hard sole shoes, both sides have valid points, but hybrid options offer a balanced solution. If you would like to ensure the best foot health for your child, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to have your child’s feet examined and to heed recommendations made by this expert.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Gary Saphire, DPM of Parkway Podiatry. 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 Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Becoming a podiatrist, who is a specialized medical professional focusing on foot and ankle health, involves a well-defined educational journey. An interested student will typically need to complete a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as biology or premed. After this foundation, a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine, or DPM, degree is obtained, which is a comprehensive four-year program. During the DPM program, the subjects studied can include anatomy, physiology, and podiatric medicine, accompanied by clinical training. This phase will provide hands-on experience and exposure to various foot and ankle conditions. Following graduation, the competent student will likely complete a residency program, which can last from two to four years, focusing on specialized areas, such as surgery or sports medicine. The final step is to obtain licensure by passing state-specific exams. Becoming a podiatrist requires dedication, a strong educational foundation, and a commitment to promoting foot health. If you have questions about the field of podiatry, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with pertinent information. 

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact Gary Saphire, DPM from Parkway Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

• Physical therapy
• Drugs
• Orthotic inserts or soles
• Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

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

Neuropathy is a nerve-related condition causing tingling, numbness, and pain, and can greatly diminish the quality of life. In the realm of medical advancements, laser treatment emerges as a ray of hope for those grappling with neuropathic discomfort. Laser treatment for neuropathy involves the application of specific wavelengths of light to targeted areas. These photons penetrate the skin, stimulating cellular activity, and promoting circulation. This process prompts the release of endorphins, natural pain relievers that provide relief from neuropathic symptoms. By fostering cellular repair and reducing inflammation, laser treatment can aid in restoring nerve function and minimizing discomfort. This approach is non-invasive and offers a promising alternative to traditional therapies. If you are experiencing neuropathy that affects the feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can help you consider if laser treatment is the right approach for you.

MLS Laser Therapy is a successful alternative for treating any pain you may be experiencing related to certain podiatric conditions.  If you are interested in MLS Laser Therapy, consult with Gary Saphire, DPM from Parkway Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

MLS Laser Therapy

Multiwave Locked System (MLS) Laser Therapy is a patented, FDA-cleared technology that helps relieve pain and inflammation from a number of podiatric conditions, including:

• Heel Pain
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Sports Injuries
• Wounds
• Achilles Tendonitis
• Arthritis
• Neuropathy
• Neuromas

MLS Laser Therapy is an ideal alternative to surgery and prescription medication, as it has no negative side effects and encourages accelerated healing. Among its many clinical benefits, MLS Laser Therapy also:

• Reduces swelling due to bruising or inflammation
• Blocks pain
• Reduces formation of scar tissue
• Improves nerve function

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

Cracked heels are a common foot ailment stemming from dry and thickened skin around the heel edge. While they often cause cosmetic concerns, they can also trigger discomfort and pain. When left untreated, cracked heels may even lead to infection. Studies indicate that among adults who have encountered cracked skin on their feet, women report the condition more frequently than men. Deep cracks can be painful and bleed, particularly while standing. Obesity, wearing ill-fitting shoes, and prolonged standing can contribute to developing cracked heels. The skin's lack of moisture and decreased elasticity, especially under the heel's fat pad, can worsen the situation. Additional culprits include wearing open-back or poorly fitting shoes, friction, improper gait, and dry, cold weather. Additionally,  athlete's foot, fungal infections, and heel spurs can significantly contribute to getting cracked heels. Countermeasures involve moisturizers, keratolytic creams, cotton socks, and liquid bandages. If soreness, redness, swelling, or severe pain from cracked heels persists for days, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist for a consultation and treatment.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Gary Saphire, DPM from Parkway Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

Achilles tendon injuries, particularly ruptures, can be painful and debilitating. This essential tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, plays a pivotal role in activities like running, jumping, and pushing off with the foot. Achilles tendon ruptures can be caused by falling from a great height, stumbling into holes, and engaging in sports that demand forceful foot movements, like sprint starts. Even a deep cut over the tendon site can lead to a rupture. Risk factors for an Achilles tendon rupture include age because natural wear and tear over time weaken the tendon. Those with a history of Achilles tendonitis or prior injuries to the tendon are at an elevated risk. Conditions such as obesity, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout can also contribute to Achilles tendon injuries. Inappropriate footwear is yet another factor that can strain the tendon. Engaging in activities with caution, wearing proper footwear, addressing underlying medical conditions, and seeking prompt treatment for previous injuries are important steps in safeguarding the Achilles tendon's health and minimizing the risk of rupture. If you believe you have an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Gary Saphire, DPM of Parkway Podiatry. Our doctor 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 Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common and bothersome condition that affects millions of people worldwide. This fungal infection occurs when microscopic fungi, such as dermatophytes or yeast, penetrate the nail bed through small cuts or openings. The warm and damp environment inside closed-toe shoes provides an ideal breeding ground for the fungi to thrive. The infection often starts with a white or yellow spot under the nail and gradually spreads, causing the nail to become discolored, thickened, and brittle. Individuals with compromised immune systems, or who have diabetes or poor circulation are generally at a higher risk. Additionally, frequent exposure to moist environments, wearing tight-fitting shoes, or walking barefoot in public places may also increase the likelihood of developing toenail fungus. Early detection and proper treatment are essential in preventing the spread of the infection and can help restore healthy toenails. Toenail fungus can be treated by a podiatrist, and it is suggested that you contact this type of doctor for relief options that are correct for you.

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 Gary Saphire, DPM of Parkway Podiatry. Our doctor 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 contact our office located in Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Hammertoe is a common foot condition that can happen from an imbalance of muscles surrounding the toe joints. Hammertoe can be categorized as classic hammertoe, mallet toe, and claw toe. In classic hammertoe, the affected toe will bend down at the joint and resemble a hammer. As toes are important to the balance of the foot and control pressure distribution, hammertoe can cause problems with walking. The affected toe can appear deformed, calluses can form on them, and it may be painful to wear shoes. Relief options for hammertoe pain can include choosing shoes with wide toe boxes, using toe pads, and wearing orthotics. If these conservative options are not successful and pain persists or worsens, surgery may be an option to straighten the toe. If you suffer from a painful hammertoe, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an evaluation and to receive treatment that is personalized to your specific situation.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Gary Saphire, DPM of Parkway Podiatry. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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

The majority of babies are born with flat feet, and the arch generally develops during childhood years. The arch runs lengthwise along the bottom of the foot, and it may not become developed in adults for various reasons. These may include genetic reasons, or it may not form if an injury has occurred. Additionally, there may be existing medical conditions which may cause flat feet, such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes. Many people do not have pain with flat feet, and there are some patients who have pain from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. There may also be changes in the work environment, which may involve standing on different surfaces. There are specific stretches that can be performed which may help people who have flat feet. A calf stretch can be effective in strengthening the lower part of the leg. This is done by standing on a step and lowering one heel at a time until a gentle stretch is felt. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can prescribe custom-made orthotics for relief, if needed. 

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Gary Saphire, DPM from Parkway Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Heel pain is a common foot condition and can be caused by various reasons. Plantar fasciitis is the most common reason patients may have heel pain, followed by Achilles tendonitis and arthritis. When heel pain occurs in physically active children and young adults, it may indicate that Sever’s disease has developed. Heel pain often comes from overuse, or from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Additionally, there may be existing medical conditions that can lead to experiencing heel pain, such as flat feet or obesity. A stress fracture of the heel bone will often lead to heel pain, or it can come from osteomyelitis, which is a heel bone infection. Heel pain may be prevented by gently stretching the heel before engaging in running and jumping activities. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer correct treatment options.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Gary Saphire, DPM of Parkway Podiatry. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.