A podiatrist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the feet and ankles. Podiatrists complete a medical degree along with specialized training focused on foot care. They work with patients of all ages and can manage a wide range of foot and ankle problems. Treatment may involve conservative care or surgery, when necessary. Since the feet contain many bones, muscles, and joints, problems in this area can affect a person’s ability to stand and walk comfortably. A podiatrist provides specialized knowledge to help patients maintain healthy feet and stay active.

Podiatrists treat many different foot and ankle conditions. Common problems include bunions, heel pain, and flat feet. They also care for tendon injuries and broken bones. Other patients may need treatment for ingrown toenails, arthritis, or gout. Podiatrists also play an important role in caring for diabetes-related foot problems, including monitoring the feet and managing infections. Certain symptoms may require testing before treatment begins. For example, changes in a toenail do not always mean a fungal infection is present. A podiatrist may take a small nail sample for testing to determine the cause before recommending the appropriate treatment.

The role of a podiatrist extends beyond addressing one specific type of foot pain. These specialists evaluate symptoms, determine the likely cause, and develop treatment plans based on each patient’s needs. Depending on the problem, a podiatrist may provide non-surgical treatment or perform a procedure when necessary. Professional podiatric care can be especially important when foot or ankle pain continues or begins interfering with normal movement. Healthy feet support walking, standing, and an active lifestyle, making proper care important for overall mobility. If persistent foot or ankle problems are causing pain or limiting your daily activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Whitestone Podiatry PC. Our doctors 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 Whitestone, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken foot occurs when one or more bones in the foot are fractured. This type of injury can happen after a fall, sports injury, or sudden impact. Some fractures occur without the bone breaking through the skin, while an open fracture happens when the broken bone pushes through the skin. Pain, swelling, and difficulty putting weight on the foot can occur after an injury. Some patients also notice tenderness or changes in how the foot looks. The location and type of fracture help determine how serious the injury is and what treatment the foot requires.

A podiatrist can examine the injured foot and determine the location and type of fracture. Imaging can help provide a clearer view of the broken bone and guide treatment. Depending on the injury, treatment can include a splint, cast, or protective shoe. Some fractures require surgery to place the bones in the correct position and support proper healing. A podiatrist can also monitor the foot during follow-up visits and check for changes in pain, swelling, or sensation. A fracture can take several weeks to heal, so professional follow-up is an important part of care.

Certain symptoms after a foot injury require prompt attention. New or worsening pain, a foot that becomes pale or cool, or numbness and tingling in the toes can signal a problem that needs evaluation. A cast or splint that feels too tight also requires attention. A podiatrist can assess these concerns and determine whether the foot is healing as expected. Professional care can also help identify problems that could affect the foot’s function or ability to bear weight. Getting the injury evaluated can provide a clearer understanding of the fracture and the treatment needed for recovery. If you have broken your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with 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 Whitestone Podiatry PC. 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 Whitestone, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pain in the ball of the foot can make each step uncomfortable. This area bears considerable pressure when a person stands, walks, or pushes off the ground. Symptoms include aching, sharp pain, or tenderness beneath the toes. Swelling or hardened skin can also develop near the painful area. Burning, numbness, or tingling can point to an irritated nerve rather than a joint problem. Because several bones, joints, and soft tissues meet in this area, finding the exact source of pain is important.

Several conditions can place too much pressure on the front of the foot. A high arch, flat feet, or an abnormal walking pattern can shift weight toward the ball of the foot. Bunions and hammertoes can also change how pressure moves across the foot. Other causes include arthritis, a damaged joint, or inflammation in the tissue supporting a toe joint. A thinning fat pad can reduce the natural cushioning beneath the bones. Running and other high-impact activities can increase discomfort. Shoes with a narrow toe box, high heels, or limited cushioning can also place added stress on this sensitive area.

A podiatrist can examine the painful area and assess how the foot moves while walking. The examination includes checking joint motion, areas of tenderness, and changes in foot shape. X-rays or other imaging tests can help reveal bone or joint damage. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the symptoms. A podiatrist can provide custom orthotics to improve weight distribution and reduce pressure. Other options include protective padding, footwear recommendations, or a medical walking boot. In severe cases involving major joint damage or a lasting deformity, surgery may be considered. Early care can keep the problem from limiting normal movement and help protect nearby joints from added strain. If you have persistent pain in the ball of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Whitestone Podiatry PC. 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 Whitestone, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a form of arthritis that causes sudden, intense joint pain that can make even light pressure difficult to tolerate. It develops when tiny crystals made of uric acid collect inside a joint and trigger inflammation. Gout most often affects the base of the big toe, but it also affects the midfoot, ankle, or other joints in the foot. Uric acid is a substance that the kidneys usually remove from the body. When too much uric acid builds up, crystals form and irritate the joint. An attack usually begins without warning. The affected joint becomes swollen, red, warm, and extremely painful. As the swelling improves, the skin around the joint sometimes begins to peel.

Several factors increase the risk of developing gout. The kidneys play an important role because they remove uric acid from the bloodstream. When they do not remove enough, uric acid levels rise and crystals develop. Risk factors include being overweight, drinking large amounts of alcohol, and eating excessive amounts of foods high in purines. Purines are natural substances that break down into uric acid. Certain medicines also raise uric acid levels. After one attack, many patients experience additional flare-ups. These attacks become more frequent and affect more than one joint. Repeated inflammation can damage joints and make walking more difficult.

A podiatrist can diagnose gout by reviewing your symptoms, examining the affected foot, and ordering imaging studies or laboratory testing when appropriate. Early diagnosis helps distinguish gout from infections, fractures, or other forms of arthritis. Treatment focuses on reducing pain, controlling inflammation, and protecting the affected joint. A podiatrist also monitors changes in the foot and recommends better foot support to reduce stress on painful joints. Prompt care improves mobility and reduces the risk of lasting joint problems. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Whitestone Podiatry PC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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