November 2024

Ankle pain while running is an issue that many runners face. It can be caused by several factors, ranging from overuse to wearing improper footwear. Overuse, where repetitive impact from running leads to stress on the ankle joints and surrounding muscles, causes inflammation. Poor running form can put excessive strain on the ankles and lead to discomfort. Running on uneven surfaces or wearing shoes that do not provide adequate support can also contribute to ankle pain. In some cases, underlying conditions such as tendinitis, sprains, or stress fractures may be the source of pain. It is essential to listen to the body and take breaks when needed. Proper warm-ups, strength training, and wearing well-fitting shoes can help reduce the risk of ankle pain and improve overall running performance. If you enjoy running and are experiencing ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief in addition to tips on preventing ankle pain.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Preferred Footcare, LLC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Ingrown toenails occur when the edges of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, and swelling. Common causes include improper nail trimming, tight footwear, and foot injuries. Symptoms include throbbing pain and discomfort, especially when wearing shoes. Treatment typically begins with conservative measures like soaking the foot and using roomy shoes. However, for persistent cases, the Winograd procedure may be necessary. This surgical method involves removing the ingrown portion of the nail and the underlying tissue to prevent the nail from growing back incorrectly. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, minimizing discomfort and ensuring a quick recovery. A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating ingrown toenails, providing personalized care and expert guidance. If you are experiencing symptoms, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. They can offer effective treatments, including the Winograd procedure, to relieve your pain and restore your foot health.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Preferred Footcare, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

Flat feet, a condition characterized by low or absent arches, can lead to discomfort and various foot problems. Custom-made foot orthotics offer several advantages for individuals with flat feet. They provide personalized support that helps improve foot alignment and distribute weight evenly. This targeted support can alleviate pain and enhance mobility, allowing individuals to engage in daily activities more comfortably. Some individuals may need time to adjust to wearing orthotics, experiencing temporary discomfort during the transition. Ultimately, the benefits of improved foot function and pain relief often outweigh the drawbacks. This makes custom-made foot orthotics a valuable option for those with flat feet who seek enhanced comfort and mobility. If you are experiencing pain from flat feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can discuss which type of custom-made orthotics is right for you.

If you are experiencing discomfort in your feet and would like to try custom orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Preferred Footcare, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Custom Orthotics?

Custom orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain. 

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Shoe inserts come in a wide variety and are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality, custom inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you're experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibility of using custom orthotics or shoe inserts. A podiatrist can determine which type of custom orthotic or shoe insert is right for you and help you take the first steps toward being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Stamford, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe joint, causing the toe to angle toward the other toes. This deformity creates a noticeable lump on the side of the foot, often leading to redness, swelling, and tenderness surrounding the affected area. Bunions can cause a dull ache or sharp pain, especially when wearing tight shoes. Diagnosis is typically straightforward. A podiatrist will assess the foot’s shape and may use X-rays to confirm the degree of misalignment and rule out other conditions, such as arthritis or gout, which can cause similar symptoms. Treatment varies based on severity. Mild cases may be managed with wider shoes, padding, and custom orthotics. In more advanced cases, surgery may be recommended to realign the joint and correct the deformity. If you have a bunion that is causing you discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to get appropriate treatment.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of Preferred Footcare, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

Athlete's foot, or tinea pedis, is a fungal infection caused by the same dermatophytes responsible for ringworm and jock itch. It typically affects the skin between the toes. Athlete’s foot thrives in warm, humid environments, making it common among athletes and people who use shared facilities like gyms and pools. Moist socks and shoes can encourage the growth of these fungi. Symptoms often include itching, burning, redness and peeling skin, especially between the toes, and in some cases, blisters may form. While antifungal creams can be effective, persistent or severe symptoms may need medical attention. If you experience intense pain, swelling, or signs of a secondary bacterial infection, such as increased redness or discharge, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment options.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Preferred Footcare, LLC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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