Heel pain can make every step uncomfortable and interfere with work, exercise, and daily activities. The discomfort sometimes begins gradually, but it can also start after an injury. Pain near the bottom of the heel frequently points to plantar fasciitis. This results from repetitive stress of the strong band of tissue that supports the arch. Pain at the back of the heel can result from Achilles tendonitis or bursitis. A sudden injury with severe pain, swelling, or a popping sound can signal a heel fracture or a torn Achilles tendon. Because several conditions produce similar symptoms, an exam by a podiatrist is important before treatment begins.

This foot doctor starts by reviewing symptoms, daily activities, and recent injuries. The foot and ankle are examined to identify any swelling, tenderness, or changes in movement. Imaging tests, like X-rays or ultrasound, help confirm certain conditions and rule out a fracture or other serious injury. Once the cause is identified, treatment includes custom orthotics to improve foot support and reduce strain on painful areas. It also includes padding that reduces pressure and recommendations for shoes that provide proper support. When symptoms do not improve with conservative care, surgery is considered for selected conditions.

Ignoring heel pain can limit normal movement and allow the problem to become more difficult to manage. Prompt care also helps patients return to comfortable walking with greater confidence. Heel pain linked to a fracture, severe tendon injury, or another serious condition benefits from early diagnosis. Long-lasting discomfort benefits from a professional evaluation, because it can indicate a serious problem. A podiatrist develops a treatment plan based on the specific cause of the pain and follows your progress to improve comfort and foot function. Early evaluation also helps address worsening symptoms before they disrupt mobility. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Mital Patel, DPM of South Shore 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 Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken toe refers to a fracture in one of the small bones of the foot, often caused by direct impact or repetitive stress. This injury is common and can significantly affect mobility. Symptoms include immediate pain, swelling, bruising, and sensitivity when touching the area. Many people find it difficult to walk or place weight on the affected foot, which can disrupt daily routines and physical activity.

Common causes include stubbing the toe against furniture and other hard surfaces and dropping heavy objects on the foot. These sudden forces can damage the bone and surrounding tissue. Among runners, broken toes may develop from repeated stress, especially when training intensity increases too quickly. Wearing poorly fitted shoes and running on hard or uneven surfaces can further raise the risk of injury.

The effects of a broken toe are especially noticeable during movement. Pain during push-off can limit running ability and reduce overall performance. Swelling and stiffness may make it difficult to wear shoes comfortably. In more severe cases, the toe may appear misaligned, and walking becomes increasingly painful. Early symptoms such as swelling and difficulty bearing weight should not be ignored, as proper care is necessary for recovery.

Risk factors include high-impact sports, wearing inadequate footwear, and the lack of rest between activities. Strengthening foot muscles and using proper running techniques can help lower the risk. Recognizing symptoms early allows for timely treatment and improved healing outcomes. A broken toe is often painful and needs immediate treatment to ensure a safe recovery. If you enjoy running and have broken your toe, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can guide you toward effective treatment tips, enabling you to safely return to this popular activity.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Mital Patel, DPM from South Shore Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Custom foot orthotics are specialized shoe inserts designed to support the feet and improve alignment during movement. Unlike over-the-counter insoles, these devices are tailored to fit the unique contours of each foot. Functional foot orthotics focus on correcting abnormal motion, while custom-molded total contact insoles provide full-surface cushioning and pressure control. These orthotics are commonly used to manage a wide range of foot conditions and improve overall biomechanics.

Common symptoms that may lead to the use of orthotics include arch pain, heel tenderness and swelling. Fatigue after standing or walking is another factor. Misalignment in the feet can also lead to discomfort in the knees, hips, and lower back. Risk factors include poor footwear choices, repetitive stress from physical activity, and excess body weight. Structural abnormalities, such as flat feet or high arches, are additional risks. Individuals who spend long hours on their feet are especially at risk for developing chronic foot issues.

Different types of orthotics serve different purposes. Functional foot orthotics are designed to correct movement patterns and improve stability. Custom molded total contact insoles focus on distributing pressure evenly and enhancing shock-absorption. These devices help reduce strain on muscles and joints while supporting natural foot motion. They also play an important role in improving balance and reducing the risk of injury during daily activities.

The benefits of orthotics extend beyond comfort. They can improve posture, enhance mobility, and reduce the likelihood of long-term complications. Proper support allows the body to move more efficiently and with less strain. Orthotics are a practical solution for managing both acute and chronic foot conditions. If you have symptoms that may require orthotics, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for guidance on proper support and treatment options.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Mital Patel, DPM from South Shore 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 Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken or detached toenail occurs when part or all of the nail separates from the skin beneath it. The damage can cause pain, bleeding, and swelling. Dark discoloration can also develop. A loose nail can catch on socks and shoes, which can tear the skin below. Causes include stubbing the toe, dropping a heavy object on it, or repeated pressure from wearing tight shoes. Fungal infections can weaken and thicken the nail until it cracks or lifts. Skin conditions like psoriasis can affect nail growth and cause separation. A detached toenail can take up to 18 months to grow back.

A podiatrist should examine a damaged nail when there is severe pain, bleeding, or a dark area beneath it. An examination can show how much of the nail remains attached and whether the nail bed is injured. The podiatrist can also check for a broken toe or signs of infection. These signs include redness, warmth, and drainage. Patients with diabetes, poor blood flow, or reduced feeling in the feet should seek prompt care for a toenail injury. Even a small wound can become serious when healing is slow or the injury goes unnoticed.

Treatment depends on the cause and extent of the damage. A podiatrist can smooth sharp edges, trim loose portions, and protect exposed tissue. When blood trapped beneath the nail creates pressure, the podiatrist can drain it through a tiny opening. Testing a nail sample can identify a fungal infection and guide treatment. If the nail is badly damaged or infected, removing part or all of it can help the area heal. The podiatrist can also explain whether the nail is likely to return normally. Follow-up visits allow the doctor to watch for infection and check new nail growth. Well-fitted shoes can reduce pressure on the healing toe and help prevent another injury. If you have problematic toenails, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Mital Patel, DPM of South Shore 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 Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.