Items filtered by date: May 2025

Heel spurs are bony growths that form on the underside of the heel bone, often due to long-term strain on foot muscles and ligaments. They commonly develop along with plantar fasciitis, especially in people who spend a lot of time on their feet, wear unsupportive shoes, or have flat feet or high arches. Symptoms include sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, especially when standing up in the morning or after sitting for a long period of time. While heel spurs themselves may not always cause pain, the inflammation around them often does. The area may feel tender or appear swollen. A podiatrist can diagnose heel spurs with a physical exam and X-rays. Treatment options include stretching exercises, orthotic inserts, anti-inflammatory medications, and cortisone injections. Surgery is rarely needed, but may be considered in severe cases that do not respond to conservative care. If you have ongoing heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat heel spurs.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Mital Patel, DPM from South Shore Podiatry. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Massapequa, NY . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Ankle pain without a clear injury can be surprising and uncomfortable. Several medical conditions may be responsible. Arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, is a common cause that leads to joint inflammation and stiffness. Tendonitis results from overuse or repetitive motion and causes pain due to inflammation of the tendons around the ankle. Bursitis occurs when fluid-filled sacs that cushion the ankle joint become irritated. Gout is another possible cause, which results from the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joint. Additionally, nerve-related issues such as tarsal tunnel syndrome can also create pain or tingling. Infections or poor circulation may contribute as well. If ankle pain persists or worsens over time, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Mital Patel, DPM from South Shore Podiatry. 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
• 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 Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

As you age, managing bunions becomes important for maintaining mobility and comfort. A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, often caused by years of pressure, wearing improper footwear, or genetic factors. Over time, the joint can become more stiff and painful, especially during walking or standing. Choosing supportive shoes with a wide toe box helps reduce pressure on the bunion and prevents further irritation. Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can improve joint flexibility and ease discomfort. Custom orthotics may also help realign the foot and reduce stress on the affected area. If you have a bunion that is causing any discomfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treat methods.

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.

As pickleball continues to gain popularity, especially among adults over 50, so do related injuries. The fast pace and sudden directional changes of the game place stress on muscles, joints, and tendons, particularly in players who may be returning to sports after years of limited activity. Epidemiological data shows a steady increase in pickleball-related injuries, with strains and sprains being the most common. Ankles are frequently affected, often due to quick pivots or inadequate warm-up. While many injuries are mild, some may lead to chronic pain or reduced mobility if not properly addressed. Wearing supportive footwear, proper technique, and flexibility exercises can help reduce risk. If you have experienced foot or ankle discomfort or limited movement after playing pickleball, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. 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.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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 and ankle needs.