Bunions, also known as hallux valgus, may be noticed as they form through various early signs. These signs encompass redness, swelling, thickened skin, and tenderness surrounding the big toe joint, often accompanied by a bony lump or prominence. Additionally, calluses and corns may develop due to increased pressure on the affected area. Early stages of bunion formation can cause discomfort, especially during activities such as walking or wearing tight shoes, and may lead to limited movement and stiffness in the big toe joint. As the bunion progresses, stiffness and decreased mobility of the big toe joint may occur. This can affect your ability to move the toe freely and may lead to further complications if left untreated. Recognizing these signs allows for proactive measures to slow the progression. If left untreated, bunions may lead to chronic pain, difficulty in walking, and other complications such as hammer toe deformities or arthritis of the big toe. Consultation with a podiatrist is suggested for a proper evaluation and treatment plan. 

If you are suffering from bunions, 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 Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• 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.

Sever's disease, despite its name, is not an illness, but a common heel bone disorder that affects children during their growth spurts. Also known as calcaneal apophysitis, this condition occurs when the heel's growth plate experiences inflammation due to repetitive stress and tension. Typically afflicting children aged 8 to 14, Sever's disease emerges as the bones grow faster than the tendons, leading to strain on the heel's growth plate. Young athletes engaged in high-impact sports, such as soccer, basketball, and gymnastics, are particularly susceptible. The symptoms can include heel pain, swelling, and discomfort, which can be worse during physical activities. Recognizing Sever's disease is important, as prompt intervention can alleviate symptoms and prevent long-term complications. If your child has heel pain, and frequently participates in sporting activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Charles Passet, DPM from Forest Hills. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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 and ankle injuries.

Understanding the intricacies of pronation is essential for runners, as it significantly influences shock absorption and the efficiency of push-off during each stride. Pronation, which is simply the natural side-to-side movement of the foot, comes in three main types. Normal or neutral pronation, where the foot rolls naturally inward by approximately15 percent, ensures proper shock absorption and alignment of ankles and legs. Underpronation, or supination, occurs when the foot rolls outward. This is more common among people with higher arches and can lead to injuries like Achilles tendonitis and shin splints. Overpronation involves excessive inward or downward rolling of the foot and is often associated with flat feet. Determining your pronation type is helpful for selecting appropriate footwear, but more importantly, this knowledge can minimize the risk of injuries. A podiatrist can analyze your gait and determine which type of pronation you have, factors that can result in an injury-free and a more enjoyable running experience. For a full assessment, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. 

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Charles Passet, DPM from Forest Hills. 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 Forest Hills, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Corns and calluses are thickened skin areas caused by pressure, often occurring on the feet. They result from a natural skin defense mechanism called hyperkeratosis. Calluses are flat and spread out, while corns are thick, localized, and can have a conical shape. Corns may appear dry or translucent and are also known as helomas or clavi, while calluses are called tylomas. Common areas for corns to develop can include the sole of the foot, the outside of the pinky toe, and between the 4th and 5th toes. Corns between the toes are termed soft corns, while those in other locations are hard corns. Hyperkeratosis occurs when the skin thickens due to friction or pressure, often related to foot deformities, wearing tight shoes, or abnormal walking patterns. Risk factors include foot anatomy, gait issues, bunions, ill-fitting shoes, and certain occupations. If you have a corn or callus that becomes bothersome or shows signs of infection, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can examine the area, provide treatment for relief, and help you find underlying causes for their development.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Charles Passet, DPM of Forest Hills. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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 and ankle needs.

Heel pain is a prevalent issue that affects people of all ages, whether you are an athlete, a busy professional, or a parent. Plantar fasciitis is the most common complaint of heel pain. It occurs when excessive pressure on the feet damages the plantar fascia ligament, resulting in pain and stiffness. This condition is often associated with activities that put stress on the feet, like running or standing for extended periods. The next most common causes of heel pain are sprains and strains, which are injuries to the body. These ailments can range from minor to severe and are often the result of physical activities or accidents. A fractured heel can be caused by accidents, falls, or severe trauma. This is considered a medical emergency and requires urgent care. If you experience sudden, severe pain in your heel, in addition to swelling and difficulty bearing weight, it is beneficial to seek immediate medical attention. Achilles tendonitis is another common reason for heel pain, caused when the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel becomes inflamed due to overuse injuries. Finally, bursitis is an inflammation of the fluid filled sacs surrounding joints, where tendons, skin, and muscle tissues meet bones. It can lead to heel pain and discomfort. If you have any type of heel pain that inhibits your daily life, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Charles Passet, DPM of Forest Hills. 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 contact our office located in Forest Hills, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.