Items filtered by date: September 2024

Bunion surgery is designed to alleviate pain and correct the misalignment caused by bunions. The procedure may involve several techniques depending on the severity and specific characteristics of the bunion. Exostectomy is the removal of the bony bump, while osteotomy realigns the bones of the toe to correct its position. Arthrodesis, or fusion surgery, involves joining two bones in the toe to stabilize the joint and reduce pain. Resection arthroplasty removes the damaged joint and reshapes the bones to improve function. Post-surgery, you can expect a recovery period involving rest, wearing special footwear, and gradual rehabilitation exercises. If you have a bunion that is causing discomfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Lance Greiff, DPM of Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Great Neck Bronx, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Hammertoe is a condition where one or more toes bend abnormally at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. This deformity often causes the affected toe to curl downward rather than lie flat. Symptoms include pain and discomfort, especially when wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes. Hammertoes also cause the formation of corns or calluses on the toe or the top of the joint as it rubs against the shoe. Hammertoe typically results from muscle imbalances or imbalances in the tendons that control toe movement. Contributing factors include wearing high heels or shoes with inadequate room for toes, genetic predisposition, and conditions such as arthritis or diabetes. If you notice signs of hammertoe, it is suggested that you promptly visit a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions. 

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Lance Greiff, DPM from Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Great Neck Bronx, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain can arise from a variety of causes, most often related to overuse, wearing improper footwear, or structural issues in the foot. Plantar fasciitis, which involves inflammation of the thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes, is the most frequent cause. Other possible causes of heel pain include Achilles tendonitis, stress fractures, or nerve entrapment like tarsal tunnel syndrome. Systemic conditions, such as arthritis or diabetes, can also contribute to heel pain, especially in older adults or those who are overweight. Regardless of the underlying cause, a podiatrist can diagnose the condition through a physical examination and imaging tests. Treatment options may include practicing specific exercises, custom orthotics, or in some cases surgery. If you have persistent or worsening heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Lance Greiff, DPM of Great Neck 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 contact our offices located in Great Neck Bronx, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a form of arthritis marked by sudden, intense joint pain, often starting with the big toe. This condition occurs due to the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joint, causing inflammation. Symptoms typically include severe, throbbing pain that may begin unexpectedly, often at night. The affected joint becomes swollen, red, and warm to the touch, and even light pressure from clothing or bedding can be excruciating. Warning signs of an impending gout attack include persistent joint discomfort, frequent episodes of pain, or swelling without a clear cause. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help to manage this condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Lance Greiff, DPM from Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Great Neck Bronx, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.