Foot drop occurs when the peripheral nerves controlling the feet become compressed or damaged. This can happen from a neurological problem, such as multiple sclerosis or a stroke, or a nerve issue. Those with diabetes, a herniated disk, or calcium deposits in the spine are more apt to develop foot drop. Sitting cross-legged or kneeling for prolonged periods, as well as injury or surgery involving the knee, hip, or lower back, can contribute to this condition as well. Foot drop can cause weakness and paralysis in muscles that pull the foot toward the shin, in addition to walking difficulties. This affliction can come on gradually or suddenly. Precursors include one shoe feeling looser than the other and the foot being difficult to lift, walking with a higher step, or one foot feeling weaker or numb compared to the other foot. Ankle and foot braces, exercises, nerve stimulation, and surgery can help with this condition. If you have problems with your feet and suspect foot drop, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to get treatment underway. 

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Charles Passet, DPM from Forest Hills. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Poor circulation can cause tingling sensations, and the feet may feel cold. This generally occurs in the feet and may happen from sitting with the legs crossed for extended periods. Poor circulation can occur from medical conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, and obesity. It may also happen from smoking, eating unhealthy foods, or from leading a sedentary lifestyle. Blood flow may be disrupted if there is an injury to the foot, and poor circulation may develop as the wound heals. This condition may be remedied when a healthy lifestyle is chosen, including engaging in a gentle exercise routine and eating foods that are low in fat. If you have symptoms of poor circulation, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Charles Passet, DPM of Forest Hills. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

An injury can cause toe pain, making it difficult to complete daily activities. Toe pain may also occur due to an abnormal foot structure or from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Existing medical conditions like hammertoe, bunions, or gout can also play a role. The big toe is affected by gout, and the pinky toe can hurt if a corn develops. Some people endure a broken toe, and buddy taping may be used as an effective healing method. The foot condition known as athlete’s foot can cause the toes and bottom of the foot to itch, which can be uncomfortable. Many diabetic patients have nerve pain, which can develop in the feet. This may lead to getting a foot ulcer, and pain relief is generally sought. An ingrown toenail is defined as a nail that grows into the skin instead of over it, and pus may ooze from it if it becomes infected. If you have toe pain, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer effective treatment methods.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Charles Passet, DPM of Forest Hills. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Forest Hills, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.