A dislocated toe occurs when the bones in the toe become misaligned, often leading to significant discomfort and mobility issues. Common symptoms include intense pain at the site of the injury, noticeable swelling, and bruising. The affected toe may appear deformed or out of place, and there may be difficulty moving it or walking without pain. Several factors contribute to dislocated toes, with sports injuries being a leading cause. Activities involving running, jumping, or sudden changes in direction can put excessive stress on the toe joints. Also, accidents such as stubbing the toe or dropping a heavy object on it can lead to dislocation. If you have sustained an injury that may have dislocated your toe, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. 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 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 office located in Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Determining whether your foot is broken involves assessing several key symptoms. Pain is often the most immediate sign. A broken foot typically causes sharp, intense pain that worsens with movement. To gauge the severity, compare the injured foot to the uninjured one. Look for any visible deformities or misalignments, such as an unusual angle or protruding bone. Swelling is another common indicator, as a broken foot usually swells significantly around the injury site, sometimes accompanied by bruising. If you experience severe pain, noticeable changes in foot shape, or significant swelling, it is important to seek medical attention from a podiatrist, who can perform an X-ray or other imaging tests that can confirm a fracture and determine the appropriate treatment for recovery. If you have broken your foot, it is suggested that you confer with this type of doctor who can treat this condition.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Gary Saphire, DPM from Parkway Podiatry. 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 Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the bottom or back of the heel. They are often associated with foot conditions like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. When a spur forms on the bottom of the heel, it is typically linked to heel spur syndrome. This occurs where the plantar fascia, a band of tissue supporting the arches of the foot, connects to the heel bone. These heel spurs often develop due to stress, overuse, or some kind of injury to the heel area. Another common type is a dorsal spur. This forms at the back of the heel, where the Achilles tendon attaches. It is often the result of insertional Achilles tendonitis, or inflammation. While heel spurs are common, many people do not experience pain. However, those with symptoms may notice discomfort during walking or running. A podiatrist can diagnose the cause of your heel pain and provide custom orthotics that can help prevent further damage. If you believe you may have developed a heel spur, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

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 Gary Saphire, DPM from Parkway Podiatry. 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 office located in Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain in children is often caused by repetitive stress or overuse, similar to adults. A common cause is plantar fasciitis, which occurs when the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed due to excessive strain. Other potential causes include Sever's disease, Achilles tendonitis, or poorly fitting shoes that lack proper support. The first thing to do to address heel pain is to have the child rest and reduce activities, like running or jumping that might worsen the condition. Ensure your child wears well-fitted shoes with good arch support and cushioning. If the heel pain persists or worsens, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to rule out more serious conditions and explore treatments such as orthotics, targeted exercises, or other interventions. Just as with adults, early treatment is essential to prevent long-term foot issues in children. 

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.

Wearing high heels can significantly alter foot posture and alignment, leading to various long-term issues. These shoes force the foot into an unnatural position, causing the bones and foot structure to deviate from their proper alignment. As a result, the biomechanics of walking are compromised, affecting overall foot function. High heels cause the foot to slide forward, compressing the forefoot, especially in narrower toe boxes, which often leads to increased foot supination. This abnormal alignment can increase the risk of overuse injuries and conditions like hammertoes and bunions. Over time, these biomechanical changes may lead to chronic pain and instability. A podiatrist can assess the damage and offer solutions to ease pain and prevent further complications. If you are experiencing foot pain from wearing high heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Gary Saphire, DPM from Parkway Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads 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.

Running shoes and walking shoes are designed with distinct features tailored to their respective activities. Running shoes are built to handle the higher impact forces of running, featuring more cushioning in the heel to absorb shock and provide support during each stride. They often have a more pronounced heel-to-toe drop, which promotes a forward motion. In contrast, walking shoes are designed for lower impact and typically have a flatter sole, offering even cushioning and greater flexibility. The emphasis in walking shoes is on stability and comfort for the repetitive heel-to-toe motion of walking. Additionally, walking shoes usually have a more rigid midsole to support the arch and enhance stability. Choosing the appropriate shoe based on your activity helps prevent injury and ensures better performance and comfort. If you have endured a foot or ankle injury from wearing the wrong type of shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on which shoes to buy for your desired activity.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Gary Saphire, DPM from Parkway Podiatry. Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

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.

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, primarily resulting from inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot. Common causes can include excessive stress from high-impact activities, prolonged standing, wearing unsupportive footwear, or being overweight. Symptoms typically include a sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, especially noticeable with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and relieving pain. Effective stretches include the calf stretch, where you press against a wall with one leg forward and the other extended back. Another is the plantar fascia stretch, where you pull your toes toward your shin while seated. Wearing supportive shoes or custom orthotics, in addition to performing these stretches, can provide significant relief. If you are experiencing symptoms of plantar fasciitis, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for expert care to effectively manage your condition and improve your foot health.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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 Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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.

Orthotics are shoe inserts that support and align the foot, helping to address various conditions like flat feet, plantar fasciitis, or overpronation. They are made from various materials, including plastic, foam, and carbon fiber, which offer different levels of support and flexibility. Soft orthotics provide cushioning and are ideal for relieving pressure on sore spots, while rigid orthotics offer more structural support, beneficial for controlling motion in the joints. Semi-rigid orthotics strike a balance between comfort and support, making them versatile for various activities. Athletic shoes often come equipped with built-in arch supports and heel cups to enhance comfort and performance. These features help distribute pressure evenly across the foot, reduce strain on the arches, and stabilize the heel during movement. Whether you need extra support for a specific condition or enhanced comfort during exercise, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to see if orthotics can help you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, 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 Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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.