Orthotics are special shoe inserts that are used to treat a variety of foot and ankle conditions in people of all ages. Your child may benefit from orthotics if they have a foot or ankle problem that affects their gait or posture, or a condition that causes them to experience foot or leg pain. While some parents may worry that an orthotic can weaken the foot or that wearing an orthotic in childhood means that their child will need to wear one forever, this is not the case. Treatment with orthotic devices can help strengthen the child’s foot and improve their biomechanics, gait, and posture, and the earlier you begin treatment, the better your child’s prognosis. After wearing an orthotic for a period of time in their childhood, your child may never need to wear one again. If you believe that your child may benefit from orthotics to correct their foot or ankle problems, please consult with a podiatrist.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Dr. Castillo from Bronx Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

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 but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that 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 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 are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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

The cuboid bone is one of seven tarsal bones in the foot and is found between the fourth and fifth toes. The medical condition that is known as cuboid syndrome can produce pain in the outside of the foot, and it can be difficult to walk. It can occur as a result of a foot injury that can include twisting the ankle, or unexpectedly stepping off a curb. Additionally, repetitive stress on the foot may lead to cuboid syndrome. Some patients develop this ailment from not stretching adequately before a workout, or it may happen from performing physical activities on uneven surfaces. It is beneficial to stop the activity that caused this syndrome, and it can help to perform specific stretching techniques which may accelerate the healing process. Please consult with a podiatrist  if you would like more information about cuboid syndrome.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Dr. Castillo from Bronx Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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.

Athlete’s foot is a very contagious fungal infection that causes the feet to become itchy, cracked, dry and flaky. Because Athlete’s foot thrives in warm and moist environments, these infections are usually spread in showers, gym locker rooms, and swimming pools from towels, floors, and even clothing. It can also spread from direct contact with an infected person. If it is left untreated, it can spread to all of the toes and into the toenails causing them to become thicker and yellow. The infection can also spread to other parts of the body. Patients who believe that they have Athlete’s foot should consult with a podiatrist who can provide a diagnosis and treatment.

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 Dr. Castillo from Bronx Foot Care.  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 offices located in Bronx, NY Yonkers, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Verrucae, also known as plantar warts, grow on the sole of the foot because of the human papillomavirus (HPV). This HPV virus that is usually the cause of plantar warts is contagious and thrives in warm moist environments such as swimming pools, changing room floors or community shower areas. Plantar warts will appear as a small growth with a tiny black dot in the center, and they can be painful when pinching the spot. These warts can grow up to a centimeter in diameter and may form into a cluster of multiple warts. Verrucae can be very painful, particularly when applying pressure on the foot. Patients who are struggling with a painful plantar wart should consult with a podiatrist to determine potential treatment and removal options.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Castillo from Bronx Foot Care. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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.

Metatarsalgia refers to any painful condition that affects the metatarsal region, or ball of the foot. Most commonly, the pain is a result of the metatarsal head (ball of the foot) becoming inflamed and putting more pressure on the bones at the front of the foot. Pain and inflammation in this area can also be a result of an existing bunion, overuse and excess pressure on the ball of the foot, aging, high arched feet, arthritis, gout, or diabetes. Being overweight can also place additional stress on the feet, as well as wearing high heels. Patients who are struggling with pain in the ball of the foot should be under the care of a podiatrist for treatment.

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.

One in six of all high school sports injuries are sprained ankles, making them the most common injury among this age group. The site of most of these sprains is the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), which is the band of connective tissue on the outside of the ankle. One of the ways the ATFL can become sprained is when an athlete’s center of gravity shifts over the outside of the weight-bearing leg, which can cause the ankle to roll inward quickly. Sporting activities with the highest occurrence of ankle sprains are girls’ gymnastics, girls’ basketball, and boys’ basketball. If a child experiences one ankle sprain, they may be more at risk of a future ankle sprain, particularly if they are involved in a sport where there is repeated jumping and landing. Even though some people may not view ankle sprains as a serious or significant injury, it is important to seek professional treatment from a podiatrist to help the ankle heal properly and regain strength, while lessening the risk of re-injury.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Castillo of Bronx Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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.

The painful foot condition known as Sever’s disease generally affects active children and adolescents between the ages of 8 and 14. The pain is said to increase during physical activity and can be felt in the bone at the back of the heel. This disease develops because of a growth spurt in which the bones grow faster than the muscles and tendons. That is why Sever's disease tends to occur in children and young teenagers, especially those who participate in running and jumping activities like basketball and soccer. One of the ways a podiatrist may relieve a portion of the pressure on the heel is by prescribing custom orthotics. Additionally, resting and icing the affected heel as well as performing gentle stretches may contribute to the pain subsiding. If your child is limping or complaining of heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat Sever’s disease.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Castillo from Bronx Foot Care. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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 injuries.

Research has indicated a significant portion of the population stands for the majority of their work day. This can have an impact on the feet, and it can be beneficial to sit for short periods of time throughout the day. It may help to refrain from standing on hard surfaces, in addition to wearing shoes that fit correctly. It is important for shoes to have adequate room for the toes to move freely in, and it may be wise to consider wearing custom made orthotics. There are several foot conditions that can develop from standing on your feet for hours including bunions, joint fatigue, and swelling. Speaking with a podiatrist may provide you with information on how to avoid painful foot conditions while standing, and it is suggested that you schedule a consultation.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Dr. Castillo from Bronx Foot Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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.