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.

The Achilles tendon is a band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It helps lift the heel when a person walks, runs, or jumps. Achilles tendonitis develops when this tendon becomes irritated and inflamed. Pain appears above the back of the heel and can become worse with activity. Signs include swelling, stiffness, and limited ankle motion. The area also can feel tender when touched. Runners and patients face a higher risk because repeated strain can irritate the tendon. An increase in exercise can place stress on it as well.

Several factors can contribute to Achilles tendonitis. Tight calf muscles can pull on the tendon and increase strain near the heel. Shoes that fit poorly or lack proper support can affect how pressure moves through the foot. Wearing high heels can shorten the calf muscles and place added stress on the tendon when other shoes are worn. Achilles tendonitis may be linked to a joint condition that affects other areas of the body. Without treatment, the tendon can weaken and become more likely to tear. Persistent heel pain should therefore receive professional attention before it interferes with daily movement or exercise.

A podiatrist can examine the heel, assess ankle motion, and identify the location of tenderness. The evaluation includes questions about symptoms, activity levels, and recent changes in exercise. The podiatrist may ask the patient to rise onto the balls of the feet to observe heel strength and movement. Imaging can provide detail when the cause or severity is unclear. An ultrasound or MRI may be ordered to reveal inflammation, damage, or a tear. Treatment from a podiatrist can include orthotics, supportive shoe recommendations, or a brace that limits harmful movement. If you have symptoms of Achilles tendonitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition.

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.

Arthritis can make every step difficult by affecting joints in the feet and ankles. It causes pain, swelling, and stiffness that can limit movement and disrupt daily activities. Some people notice morning symptoms, while others feel pain after standing. Types that affect the feet include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. Osteoarthritis develops as joint cartilage wears down because of age or injury. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system attacks healthy joint tissue. Gout develops when crystals collect inside a joint, causing sudden pain and swelling. A podiatrist can identify the type and explain how it affects the feet.

Arthritis can make walking and standing harder. Pain can affect the toes, the ball of the foot, the middle of the foot, or the ankles. Swelling can make shoes feel tight, while stiffness can reduce joint movement. Some patients develop bone spurs, which are extra areas of bone near damaged joints. Others notice changes in toe position or foot shape. These changes can place added pressure on nearby tissues. Arthritis can affect one foot or both feet, depending on the type. An early evaluation can identify joint damage and guide treatment before symptoms become more severe.

A podiatrist begins with an examination of the feet and ankles. The visit includes reviewing symptoms, checking joint movement, and watching how the patient walks. X-rays and other imaging scans can show joint damage, loss of joint space, and changes in bone structure. After making a diagnosis, the podiatrist can recommend custom orthotics, braces, or other medical treatments that reduce pressure and improve comfort. The podiatrist can also suggest shoes that provide proper support and enough room for swollen joints. Surgery is considered when joint damage is severe and other treatments do not provide enough relief. If you have symptoms of arthritis in the feet or ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief, treatment, and management solutions.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, 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.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

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.

As people get older, ongoing foot discomfort can make everyday movement more difficult and reduce overall independence. Carrying additional body weight may place greater pressure on the feet, ankles, and joints, which can contribute to soreness, fatigue, and difficulty with walking or standing for extended periods of time. This added strain may gradually affect balance, mobility, and participation in normal daily activities. Some individuals notice aching in the heels, arches, or forefoot, while others experience swelling, instability, or discomfort that limits exercise and social routines. Because the feet support the entire body, even mild pain can have a meaningful effect on quality of life. A podiatrist can evaluate the source of discomfort, assess walking mechanics, and recommend treatments that improve support, reduce strain, and restore comfort during movement. Addressing foot pain early may help preserve mobility and confidence. If foot discomfort is making daily activities more difficult, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for care.

The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, 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.

Obesity and Your Feet

People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.

Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity

• When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
• Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
• Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.

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.