Golf may look like a low impact sport, but the feet and ankles work hard throughout a round. Players often walk several miles on uneven terrain while repeatedly shifting weight during each shot. These combined demands can place stress on the joints, tendons, and ligaments of the lower extremities. Common injuries include ankle sprains, tendon inflammation, heel pain, and stress injuries in the midfoot. The twisting motion of the body during play can also aggravate existing conditions such as plantar fasciitis or arthritis. Wearing poor footwear with inadequate support may increase the strain on the feet during long rounds. Paying attention to early discomfort can help prevent a small problem from becoming a lasting injury. A podiatrist can evaluate foot mechanics and recommend treatment or supportive devices, when needed. If you develop persistent foot or ankle pain while playing golf, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper 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 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.

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
• 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 contact one of our offices located in Sea Cliff and Babylon, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Extensor tendinopathy is a musculoskeletal condition involving irritation or inflammation of the extensor tendons that run along the top of the foot and help lift the toes during walking. This condition may develop when these tendons experience repetitive strain or excessive pressure. Causes can include older age, excess body weight, diabetes-related changes, in addition to certain types of arthritis, and wearing ill fitting shoes that place stress across the top of the foot. Symptoms include tenderness, swelling at the top of the foot, and pain that increases with physical activity or prolonged walking. Risk factors include repetitive movement, poor footwear support, and underlying inflammatory conditions. A podiatrist can evaluate tendon health and recommend supportive treatment. If persistent foot pain develops, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Joseph D. Ruffo, DPM, PC 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 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.

Toenail fungus is a common nail infection caused by fungi that thrive in warm moist environments, and invade the nail through tiny cracks. Early signs include yellow-brown discoloration, dullness, and a slow-growing change in nail appearance. As the infection progresses, the nail may become thickened, brittle, and crumbly, sometimes producing debris and a foul-smelling odor. Causes include exposure to damp shoes, shared locker rooms, and weakened nail barriers. Risk factors include aging, diabetes, poor circulation, athlete’s foot, and frequent nail trauma. A podiatrist can confirm the infection, trim and thin thickened nails, and recommend targeted treatments that support clear nail growth. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which may include prescribed medication.

For more information about treatment, 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.

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 one of our offices located in Sea Cliff and Babylon, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel bursitis causes pain at the back of the heel. It occurs when a small fluid-filled sac, called a bursa, becomes inflamed. The bursa, which sits between the Achilles tendon and the heel bone, helps reduce friction as the foot moves. When repetitive stress, tight calf muscles, poorly fitting shoes, or a bony bump on the heel create pressure, the bursa can swell and fill with excess fluid. Symptoms of heel bursitis include tenderness, swelling, and pain that worsens when walking uphill, running, or standing on tiptoes. It can sometimes be mistaken for Achilles tendonitis because both cause pain in a similar area. A podiatrist can perform a physical exam, evaluate foot structure and movement, and use imaging to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options include custom orthotics, footwear guidance, anti-inflammatory care, or injections to reduce irritation. If you have symptoms of heel bursitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

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.