Foot pain can significantly affect hikers by limiting endurance and enjoyment on the trail. Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot that causes heel pain. Toenail problems, such as thickening or ingrown nails, can create pressure and discomfort. Blisters are fluid-filled lesions caused by friction and moisture that can become painful if not treated. Prevention includes wearing properly fitting shoes and moisture-wicking socks, as well as stretching the feet before starting activity to improve flexibility. Keeping feet clean and dry also reduces risk. A podiatrist can diagnose foot conditions, provide treatment, and recommend supportive footwear. If you have developed foot pain from hiking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment and prevention tips.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Lesly Honore, MD, DPM from New York. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hempstead, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cold feet can be more than a comfort issue fixed by putting on a thicker pair of socks. This discomfort may signal peripheral artery disease, where narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the legs and feet. When circulation is limited, the skin can feel cool, look pale, or become numb. People may also notice leg pain with walking that improves when stopping. Risk factors for peripheral artery disease include diabetes, smoking, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. A podiatrist can assess circulation by checking pulses in the feet, comparing blood pressure in the arms and ankles, and ordering imaging tests. Treatment focuses on improving blood flow and protecting the feet from skin breakdown or slow-healing wounds or ulcers. If you have cold feet on a regular basis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Lesly Honore, MD, DPM from New York. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hempstead, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Thick toenails often develop due to underlying conditions that affect nail growth and structure. The most common cause is toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, which leads to discoloration, thickening, and brittle nails. Other conditions include onychauxis, characterized by abnormal nail thickening without infection, and onycholysis, where the nail separates from the nail bed and may appear white or discolored. Symptoms can include crumbling edges, foul odor, and discomfort while wearing shoes. Risk factors include poor foot hygiene, damp environments, aging, and compromised circulation. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the condition, providing targeted treatments, and guiding proper foot care. If you notice changes in your toenails, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

For more information about treatment, contact Lesly Honore, MD, DPM of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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

Bunions develop when the big toe shifts out of alignment, creating a visible bump at the base of the toe, and often leading to discomfort. This change can be influenced by foot structure, inherited traits, footwear choices, and the way pressure is placed on the foot over time. As the joint moves, surrounding tissues can become irritated, making walking and wearing shoes more difficult. A thorough evaluation looks beyond the bump itself to understand what is driving the change, including how the foot functions during movement. Care is tailored to each individual and may include shoe modifications, padding, custom orthotics, or exercises to improve support and reduce strain. When conservative measures are no longer effective, surgical correction may be considered to realign the joint and relieve pain. If a bunion is causing discomfort or limiting activity, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Lesly Honore, MD, DPM of New York. 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 Hempstead, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.