Although plantar fasciitis is the most common culprit behind heel pain, a burning pain in your heels may indicate nerve damage. There are several conditions that can make the heels feel like they are on fire. Diabetic neuropathy, which is associated with high blood sugar levels, can cause burning pain, as well as sharp or shooting pain, hypersensitivity to touch, and even balance problems. Physical traumas or injuries to the heels can also cause burning pain. Look at your heels for overt signs of injury, such as swelling or bruising. Less common reasons why your heels might be burning include autoimmune diseases, infections, and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. If you are suffering from burning heel pain, please seek the care of a podiatrist. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Joseph D. Ruffo, DPM, PC of New York. 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 feel free to contact one of our offices located in Sea Cliff and Babylon, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Many children wear flip-flops, especially during the warm summer months. However, those flip-flops can impact their feet long after the end of summer vacation. Heel and arch pain are common complaints among children who wear flip-flops. The heel bone continues to grow even into the midteen years and requires adequate cushioning and support. Flip-flops provide no support to the heel, causing the growth plates in the heel bones to become inflamed, tender, and painful. Frequent flip-flop wearing also makes various foot and ankle problems, such as Achilles tendonitis, ankle sprains, broken toes, plantar warts, and athlete’s foot more likely. If your child complains of foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule them an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Joseph D. Ruffo, DPM, PC from New York. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

• Ankle problems
• Hip problems
• Lower back problems
• Pain in the balls of the feet
• Problems with foot arches
• Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

• Sprained ankles
• Blisters
• Infections
• Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Sea Cliff and Babylon, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot odor is caused by bacteria that feasts on oils and dead skin cells. These bacteria can collect and multiply easily in damp and dark places like sweaty shoes, socks, and sweaty feet, and then produce odorous organic acids during their process of dispelling waste. For some people, the type of bacteria they collect is called Kyetococcus sedentarius, which also produces volatile sulfur compounds and can be excessively rank. A key to avoiding or reducing putrid-smelling feet is keeping the feet as dry and clean as possible. Make sure your child washes their feet every day and especially after physical activity that causes them to sweat. Get them moisture-wicking socks that keep sweat off the skin and allow the feet to breathe. Check to make sure they wear fresh socks every day as well. Ensure that the shoes they wear are not too tight, and switch out shoes and sneakers every day to allow them to dry out before wearing them again. Don’t allow them to share footwear, socks, or towels with anyone. If you believe your child’s feet sweat excessively, they may have a condition known as hyperhidrosis which can be treated by a podiatrist who can also offer additional tips on foot hygiene and care.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Joseph D. Ruffo, DPM, PC of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Sea Cliff and Babylon, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Complications from diabetes can have profound effects on foot and ankle health. Heightened glucose levels can lead to nerve damage (neuropathy) and blockages in the blood vessels (peripheral vascular disease). Both of these obstacles can increase a diabetic’s risk for developing, detecting, and healing foot ulcers. Non-healing diabetic ulcers can become infected and lead to far more serious complications such as gangrene or even amputation in the most severe cases. These high-risk scenarios make it imperative for diabetics to check their feet daily for any cuts or abrasions and be under the care of a podiatrist who can help them manage any stumbling blocks that may arise.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Joseph D. Ruffo, DPM, PC from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Sea Cliff and Babylon, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.