Statistics show that falls among seniors are the leading cause of death from injury in that age group. For this reason, preventing falls in older adults is imperative. Start with safety-proofing the home. Remove scatter rugs and clear pathways. Improve lighting and remove long wires that can easily be tripped over. Install grab bars and use non-skid mats in bathrooms. Doing exercises to improve balance also can help prevent falls. Wearing shoes with non-slip soles and avoiding walking barefoot are two more preventative measures. Some medication has side effects that cause dizziness or changes to blood pressure, so it is a good idea to discuss alternatives. Having regular vision checkups is important to make sure prescriptions are up to date. Seniors who are frail or have mobility issues may wish to use a device, such as a walker, walking stick, or cane, to keep them upright, especially at night. For more information on methods that may help to prevent falling, it is suggested that older adults and their families seek the counsel of a podiatrist.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Castillo from Bronx Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

A common congenital foot condition is known as clubfoot. It is a birth defect that causes the infant’s foot to turn inward, forcing the bottom of the foot to face sideways. It happens during pregnancy and is a result of shortened tendons in the legs. Clubfoot is divided into two categories, and isolated clubfoot can also be referred to as idiopathic clubfoot, which is the most common type. Non-isolated clubfoot may be associated with additional health problems such as spina bifida or other defects of the brain. Research has shown clubfoot is caused by genetics or environmental factors, and the chances of this developing may increase with baby boys. Additionally, pregnant moms who smoke may double the chances of having a child that is born with clubfoot. This condition is generally diagnosed during pregnancy by having an ultrasound performed, which can help the parents to decide on a treatment when the baby is born. If you have determined your unborn child may have this condition, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can examine your child soon after birth and help you to decide on a successful treatment method.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Castillo of Bronx Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

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

Many people experience foot pain, whether it is chronic or occasional. Foot pain that is felt every day may be a result of specific conditions such as arthritis, hammertoe, or having a bunion. Pain that is felt once in a while may come from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly or standing for long periods of time. Older people may have foot pain from a loss of padding in the feet, which helps to absorb shock. Blisters on the feet may be uncomfortable, and excess friction from the socks or shoes that are worn is generally the cause. Young children and teenagers may suffer from Sever’s disease, which is an inflammation of the muscles surrounding the growth plate in the heel. It affects active people in this age group, and parents may notice their child is limping. There are additional reasons to have foot pain, and it is suggested that a podiatrist be contacted who can pinpoint the exact cause, and offer you correct treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Castillo from Bronx Foot Care. 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 our offices located in Bronx, NY Yonkers, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Independent mobility is paramount to the quality of life for seniors. A senior’s gait and ability to rise comfortably from a chair, as well as walk and balance, are necessary for independent mobility. As one ages, their walking speed declines, especially after age 70. The speed of walking is known as gait velocity, which is a predictor of chronic medical conditions, hospitalizations, and even mortality. Calf muscles propel the body forward, and their strength lessens in older years. Many factors may affect the gait of older adults, including neurologic disorders like dementia, and musculoskeletal conditions, such as spinal stenosis. Seniors can participate in an exercise program that focuses on flexibility, strengthening, and balance to do what they can to maintain a good gait. If you are a senior, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can help you ensure the best biomechanics of the feet for a happier, healthier life.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Castillo from Bronx Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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