Running places repeated stress on the feet and ankles, making these areas vulnerable to injuries that interrupt training and everyday activities. Some injuries develop gradually when the body struggles to handle repeated strain. Others happen suddenly after a misstep or an awkward landing. Increasing mileage too quickly raises the risk of injury, particularly when runners also add hills or faster workouts. Shoes that lack proper support contribute to discomfort in some patients. A podiatrist evaluates the location of pain and reviews recent changes in running habits. This helps distinguish an injury from temporary muscle soreness and guides an appropriate treatment plan.

Plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis are two frequent causes of running-related foot pain. Plantar fasciitis affects the strong band of tissue connecting the heel to the front of the foot. It usually causes pain beneath the heel, especially with the first steps after rest. Achilles tendinitis involves irritation of the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Symptoms include tenderness, stiffness, and pain behind the heel or lower leg. A podiatrist examines these tissues and checks how the foot moves. Treatment includes targeted support and, for certain patients, custom orthotics that help reduce strain on the affected area.

Stress fractures are small cracks in a bone caused by repeated force. Runners frequently develop them in the bones of the forefoot, although other foot bones may be affected. Pain usually starts during activity and becomes more persistent as the injury progresses. Swelling and tenderness directly over a bone warrant careful evaluation. Ankle sprains occur when a twist stretches or tears the ligaments that support the joint. Bruising, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight are typical symptoms. A podiatrist assesses joint stability and orders imaging when appropriate. Early stress fractures sometimes require an MRI scan because initial X-rays do not always reveal them.

Podiatric treatment depends on the injured structure and the severity of the damage. A walking boot or brace protects certain injuries while healing progresses. A podiatrist also evaluates shoe fit and identifies pressure patterns that contribute to repeated injury. Follow-up visits allow the doctor to monitor recovery and determine when running can be resumed. Persistent foot or ankle pain requires attention because continuing to run on an injury risks further damage. Sudden severe pain or an inability to bear weight calls for prompt assessment. If you have injured your feet or ankles while running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Mital Patel, DPM of South Shore Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

• Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
• Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
• “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
• Cross-Training is Crucial
• Wear Proper Running Shoes
• Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury

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 occurs when one or more bones in a toe crack or break. The injury can happen after dropping a heavy object on the foot or striking the toe against a hard surface. A forceful bend or twist could also cause a break. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and bruising. The toe can also become tender and difficult to move. Some broken toes look crooked or appear out of their normal position. Pain becomes more noticeable when standing or walking because body weight places pressure on the injured area. A broken big toe has a greater effect on movement because the big toe plays an important role in balance and pushing the foot forward while walking.

A podiatrist evaluates a broken toe by examining the injury and asking how it happened. An evaluation includes checking swelling, tenderness, and the position of the toe. The podiatrist also determines whether the skin or toenail was damaged during the injury. X-rays help confirm a break and show the location of the damaged bone. Treatment depends on which toe is injured and the severity of the break. A podiatrist stabilizes the toe to protect the bone while it heals. A protective shoe or other supportive device can reduce pressure on the injured area. When a broken toe is out of position, a podiatrist carefully realigns the bone when appropriate.

A broken toe affects balance and changes the way a patient walks. Shifting weight away from the injured toe can place additional stress on other areas of the foot or ankle. A podiatrist monitors healing and determines when the toe is ready for increased activity. Follow-up evaluations also identify problems with bone position, joint movement, or continued pain. Proper treatment helps protect the injured toe and support a safe return to regular activities. Care can be adjusted as swelling decreases and movement becomes more comfortable. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. 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 to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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.

Achilles tendon injuries from cycling occur when the strong band connecting the calf muscles to the heel becomes irritated or damaged. Although cycling is considered low-impact, repetitive pedaling can place stress on the Achilles tendon, especially during long or intense rides. Symptoms may begin gradually and include stiffness at the ankle, swelling, and tenderness near the heel. Some cyclists notice discomfort when starting a ride that improves temporarily with movement. More serious injuries can cause severe pain and make walking difficult.

Overuse is a common cause of Achilles tendon problems among cyclists. Repeating the same pedaling motion for hours can place constant strain on the tendon. A poor bike fit may also contribute by placing the ankle in an awkward position during each pedal stroke. Muscle imbalance can create uneven forces between the legs and feet, increasing stress on the Achilles tendon. Risk factors include suddenly increasing mileage, frequent hill riding, and inadequate recovery between rides. Previous Achilles problems may also increase the chance of another injury.

Pay attention to symptoms instead of trying to push through pain. Taking a break from painful activity can help prevent further irritation. Gentle movement may be appropriate when symptoms are mild, but severe pain should not be ignored. A proper bike fit can help reduce unnecessary strain on the ankle and heel. Supportive cycling footwear may also improve foot positioning. If swelling or tenderness continues after rest, professional evaluation can help identify the cause before the injury becomes more serious.

A podiatrist will examine the foot, ankle, and Achilles tendon and may assess walking and ankle movement. Treatment options include activity modification, wearing supportive footwear, or temporary immobilization depending on the injury. The podiatrist can also provide guidance for gradually returning to cycling without placing excessive stress on the tendon. If you have Achilles tendon pain from cycling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. 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 Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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.

A bunion is a foot deformity that develops when the big toe gradually moves toward the smaller toes while the joint at its base shifts outward. This creates a noticeable bump along the inside of the foot near the big toe joint. Bunions usually develop gradually and may become more prominent over time. Although some people experience little discomfort, others may develop pain, swelling, or stiffness. Shoes that press against the bump can cause friction and irritation, making standing and walking uncomfortable.

Bunion symptoms can become more noticeable as the deformity progresses. Pain may occur while walking, standing, or while wearing narrow shoes. Swelling and tenderness surrounding the joint are common, and repeated pressure may lead to calluses or thickened skin. The big toe may become less flexible and gradually move closer to the second toe. Genetics, inherited foot structure, abnormal foot mechanics, and footwear that places excessive pressure on the toes may contribute to bunion development. A family history of bunions can also increase the risk.

A podiatrist can evaluate the bunion and determine how it affects foot function. An examination may assess toe alignment, joint movement, and walking mechanics. X-rays may also be recommended to evaluate bone alignment and changes within the joint. Treatment depends on the severity of the bunion and the symptoms involved. Conservative options may include wider shoes, protective padding, and other measures designed to reduce pressure and improve comfort. Surgery may be considered when persistent pain significantly interferes with daily activities.

Early attention to bunion symptoms can help manage discomfort and support healthy foot function. Wearing shoes with adequate room around the toes can reduce pressure on the affected joint. Ongoing pain, swelling, or difficulty wearing shoes should not be ignored. If you have a painful or swollen bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation, appropriate treatment, and long-term management.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, 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 Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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.