Morton's neuroma, a painful foot condition, stems from the compression of the plantar digital nerve, typically between the third and fourth toes. This nerve compression leads to the thickening of the nerve tissue, resulting in sharp, burning pain, tingling sensations, and numbness in the affected toes. Despite its name, Morton's neuroma is not a true neuroma, or tumor, but rather a nerve entrapment or irritation. The precise cause of Morton's neuroma remains unclear, though factors such as repetitive stress, wearing tight or high-heeled shoes, foot deformities, and certain activities that involve pressure on the forefoot are thought to contribute to its development. Diagnosis often involves a thorough examination by a podiatrist, including a physical assessment of the foot. This may include imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans to confirm the condition. If you are experiencing pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Gary Saphire, DPM of Parkway Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Athlete's foot, a fungal infection of the skin on the feet, is usually treated with different types of antifungal medications. These can come in the form of creams, sprays, and powders, as well as oral medications for more severe cases. These treatments can kill the fungus that causes the infection. The infection usually clears up within a few weeks of topical treatment application. Keeping your feet clean and dry when treating athlete’s foot is important, as the fungus thrives in moist environments. Changing socks regularly, using antifungal powders in shoes, and avoiding walking barefoot in public areas, such as locker rooms or swimming pools, can help prevent the spread of the infection. A podiatrist, or foot doctor, might recommend a stronger prescription medication for more persistent cases. Podiatrists can also guide proper foot hygiene to prevent recurrence. If you are struggling with athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for the right treatment options for you. 

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Gary Saphire, DPM from Parkway Podiatry.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

Measuring your foot correctly ensures a comfortable and supportive fit for your shoes, vital for overall foot health. For accurate measurement, first, measure at the end of the day when your feet are at their largest due to swelling from daily activities. Wear the type of socks you plan to wear with the shoes for precise sizing. Using the tape paper to floor method, stand on a piece of paper, trace the outline of your foot, and then measure the longest distance from heel to toe. If your feet differ in size, always fit the larger foot and consider custom-made inserts for the smaller one. Wearing ill-fitting shoes can lead to discomfort, blisters, and even long-term foot issues. Signs of a wrong shoe size include pain, rubbing, and difficulty in walking comfortably. If you would like help in determining your correct shoe size, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for guidance.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Gary Saphire, DPM from Parkway Podiatry. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that often targets the big toe and causes immediate and excruciating pain. Symptoms of gout include sudden swelling, pain, and redness, called flare-ups, and often occur during the night. It is caused by high levels of uric acid that form crystals in the joint. A podiatrist can conduct tests to measure uric acid levels and identify crystals in joint fluid. Treatment aims to alleviate acute flares, prevent further occurrences, and manage the condition long-term to avoid uric acid deposits in tissues. Anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids help manage pain and inflammation during flares, while preventive daily treatments may be necessary for severe cases. Lowering uric acid levels is essential for long-term management, achieved through medication, diet, and lifestyle changes. A podiatrist can offer specialized foot-related care and comprehensive assessments, custom treatment plans, and progress monitoring for effective gout management. If you are experiencing gout symptoms in the feet or ankles, it is suggested that you seek assistance from a podiatrist who can provide tailored care to alleviate discomfort and optimize management strategies.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Gary Saphire, DPM from Parkway 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 office located in Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.