Items filtered by date: July 2024

A bunion is characterized by a protrusion at the base of the big toe. It manifests as a bony bump caused by the misalignment of the joint, often leading to the big toe pushing against the adjacent toes. Bunions vary in severity, classified into degrees based on visual cues. Mild cases exhibit slight deviations of the big toe, with minimal outward protrusion. Moderate bunions display more pronounced misalignment and a visible bump. Severe bunions are marked by significant joint displacement, causing the big toe to angle drastically toward the other toes. The visual features include redness, swelling, and sometimes pain surrounding the affected area, affecting mobility and comfort. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and treatment remedies.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Emil Babayev, 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?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Selecting the right running shoes depends on your foot type, which can be neutral, pronated, or supinated. Neutral feet have a balanced arch and typically benefit from shoes offering moderate cushioning and support. These shoes help absorb shock evenly during running. Pronated feet tend to roll inward excessively, requiring stability shoes with features like dual-density midsoles or medial posts to provide additional support and correct alignment. Supinated feet, which roll outward, benefit from neutral cushioned shoes with ample flexibility and cushioning to absorb impact and provide comfort. When choosing running shoes, consider arch height, gait analysis, and personal comfort preferences. Wearing shoes that are incorrect for your specific foot type may lead to developing foot pain. If this applies to you, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide relief and treatment options, and guide you toward the right pair of running shoes.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact Emil Babayev, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

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

Swollen feet can be uncomfortable and concerning, often signaling an underlying issue. One common cause is prolonged standing or sitting, which leads to fluid accumulation in the feet due to gravity. This is often seen in people with sedentary jobs or those who travel long distances. Another possibility is injury. Sprains, fractures, or other injuries to the foot or ankle can cause swelling as the body responds with inflammation to protect the area. This type of swelling is usually accompanied by pain and bruising. Additionally, medical conditions such as heart disease, kidney disease, or venous insufficiency can lead to swollen feet. These issues affect the body's ability to circulate and balance fluids properly, resulting in fluid retention in the lower extremities. If your feet are persistently swollen or if swelling is accompanied by other symptoms, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan as quickly as possible.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Emil Babayev, DPM of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Midwood and Kensington in Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Stretching is essential for pickleball players to prevent foot and ankle injuries. Incorporating calf raises into your routine strengthens the muscles, improving stability and reducing the risk of strains. Toe touches stretch the hamstrings and lower back, enhancing flexibility and overall mobility. Regular stretching increases blood flow to the muscles, which can help in quicker recovery and reduced muscle soreness. It also improves range of motion, making movements on the court more efficient and less prone to injury. By dedicating time to these stretches, players can maintain their performance and enjoy the game with a lower risk of foot and ankle issues. Stretching not only prepares the body for the physical demands of pickleball but also contributes to long-term joint and muscle health. If you have developed a foot or ankle injury while playing pickleball, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment options, and guide you on additional stretches.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Emil Babayev, DPM 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
• Plantar Fasciosis
• 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Midwood and Kensington in Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Open wounds on the feet are injuries that break the skin's surface, leaving underlying tissue exposed. Each type of open wound has distinct signs and characteristics. Abrasions, commonly referred to as scrapes, occur when skin on the foot experiences superficial damage from rubbing against a rough surface. Lacerations are cuts caused by sharp objects, which may vary in depth and severity depending on the force of the injury. Puncture wounds in the foot occur when a sharp object penetrates the skin, creating a small hole that can lead to deep tissue damage and infection if not properly treated. Avulsions, which often result from traumatic injuries in feet, involve the tearing away of skin and tissue from the body. Surgical wounds are intentional incisions made during surgical procedures. These open-foot wounds require careful monitoring and care to prevent complications during and after the procedure. Diabetic ulcers are open wounds often found on the feet of diabetics, resulting from poor circulation and nerve damage. Regardless of the type, appropriate wound care can decrease risk of infection in the foot and promote healing. If you're experiencing challenges with open wounds, it's suggested to consult with a podiatrist for effective treatment and management, reducing complications and supporting a successful recovery.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Emil Babayev, DPM from New York. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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