Items filtered by date: August 2024

Falls can be caused by various factors such as slippery surfaces, poor lighting, and obstacles like loose rugs. Medical conditions, such as dizziness or visual impairments, as well as certain medications, can also increase fall risk. Effective fall prevention involves the 4Ps, which are pain, position, placement, and personal needs. Pain management is essential, as discomfort can affect balance and mobility. Positioning oneself carefully, especially when standing up or moving, helps maintain stability. Proper placement of furniture and other items ensures that pathways are clear and safe. Finally, addressing personal needs such as regular exercise to strengthen muscles and managing health conditions can further reduce the risk of falls. Falling can seriously impact the feet. If you have fallen and have foot pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and treatment solutions.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Afsaneh Latifi, DPM from Lenox Hill Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Recovering from foot surgery requires careful preparation to ensure a smooth healing process. Start by stocking up on essential groceries and easy-to-prepare meals to avoid frequent trips to the store. Having everything you need within reach will make daily life more manageable while you are less mobile. Additionally, it is important to move furniture and obstacles out of your path to create a clear, and safe environment. This prevents potential trips and falls that could hinder your recovery. Keep frequently used items within easy reach and set up a comfortable resting area where you can elevate your foot to reduce swelling. By planning ahead and creating a supportive environment, you can focus on healing and minimize the risk of complications during your recovery. If you have had any type of foot surgery, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with your podiatrist who can guide you on specific recovery methods for your type of surgery.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Afsaneh Latifi, DPM of Lenox Hill 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 office located in New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pad syndrome is a painful condition affecting the heel's fatty tissue, leading to discomfort and difficulty walking. This syndrome occurs when the heel's fat pad, which acts as a shock absorber, deteriorates or thins out, often due to excessive stress or injury. The condition can result from aging, repetitive high-impact activities like running or jumping, prolonged standing, or being overweight. Heel pad syndrome can affect anyone but is more common among athletes, older adults, and individuals with occupations requiring extended periods of time on their feet. Symptoms typically include a deep, bruised feeling in the heel, particularly noticeable during weight-bearing activities. This pain can be sharp or aching, worsening with activity and improving with rest. If you have painful heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who may prescribe orthotics, heel cups, specific exercises, and anti-inflammatory medication.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Afsaneh Latifi, DPM of Lenox Hill 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 office located in New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Experiencing pain in the arch of the foot can significantly affect your daily activities, making it difficult to walk or bear weight. This discomfort can stem from various conditions, such as plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or overpronation. Plantar fasciitis, one of the most common reasons, involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is the band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot. Flat feet or fallen arches occur when the arch collapses, causing strain and pain due to improper weight distribution. Overpronation, where the foot rolls inward excessively while walking, can also lead to arch pain by overstretching and stressing the ligaments and muscles. Other factors like obesity, wearing improper footwear, and repetitive stress from high-impact activities can contribute to this issue. A podiatrist can examine your arches to determine the case of the discomfort. This medically trained foot doctor specializes in diagnosing and treating foot-related problems, offering personalized treatment plans that may include orthotic devices or specific exercises to alleviate pain and improve foot function. If you are experiencing pain in the arch of the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Afsaneh Latifi, DPM from Lenox Hill Podiatry. 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 New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.