Items filtered by date: April 2025

Hammertoe is a foot deformity in which one or more of the smaller toes bend abnormally at the middle joint, creating a curled or hammer-like appearance. This condition often develops gradually and can become rigid over time if not treated. Common causes include an imbalance in the muscles or tendons that control toe movement, often triggered by wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes that crowd the toes. Repeated pressure and friction can worsen the deformity. Risk factors include having a longer second toe, certain inherited foot structures, or conditions such as arthritis and diabetes. Wearing high heels or shoes with narrow toe boxes may also increase the likelihood of developing hammertoe. If you have signs of hammertoe, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment methods.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Rouder from S.I. Podiatry. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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

Toenail fungus is an infection that affects the toenail and the skin underneath it. It often causes the nail to become thick, yellow, and brittle, or to lift away from the nail bed. Fungal toenails are more common in older adults, especially those with diabetes, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system. Fungus grows well in warm, damp places like sweaty shoes. For that reason, people who wear tight or closed shoes for long hours or use shared shower areas may be more likely to be exposed. The infection usually starts slowly and can become worse over time if not treated. Because toenails grow slowly and have less blood flow than other parts of the body, treating a fungal nail infection can take several months. A podiatrist may prescribe oral medication to fight the infection from the inside, or use topical treatments for mild cases. In more serious situations, surgery to remove the damaged nail might be recommended. If you have been infected with a toenail fungus, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Rouder of S.I. Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, typically beginning between the toes. It is caused by dermatophytes, a group of fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments such as locker rooms, public showers, and sweaty footwear. The infection spreads easily through direct contact or contaminated surfaces. Symptoms often include itching, burning, and stinging sensations, especially between the toes or on the soles. The affected skin may appear red, scaly, cracked, or may peel. In more severe cases, blisters or ulcers can form. Although athlete's foot is not usually serious, it can be persistent and uncomfortable without proper treatment. If you have symptoms of this irritating condition, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can begin effective treatment, which often includes prescribed medication.

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. Rouder from S.I. 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 Staten Island, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout attacks at night can be particularly debilitating, causing severe pain, swelling, and redness in the feet that can interfere with sleep. This form of arthritis is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the joints, often targeting the big toe, which is more susceptible to stress and cooler temperatures. Factors such as dehydration, lower body temperature, and reduced cortisol levels during sleep, can trigger these nighttime flare-ups. The pain from a gout attack can be so intense that finding relief becomes a challenge without professional help. A podiatrist can evaluate your symptoms, confirm the diagnosis, and provide treatment to help prevent future flare-ups. Recommendations may include lifestyle adjustments like dietary changes, weight management, and anti-inflammatory treatments to ease pain and swelling. Effectively managing gout not only helps protect your feet and joints but also promotes better sleep. If you are struggling with painful gout attacks at night, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Rouder from S.I. 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 Staten Island, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in growing children, particularly those who are active in sports. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress and tension from the Achilles tendon. This condition is most common during periods of rapid growth, when bones lengthen faster than muscles and tendons can adapt. Causes include excessive running, jumping, and footwear that lacks adequate support. Symptoms include pain and tenderness at the back of the heel, swelling, and difficulty walking or participating in physical activities. The discomfort may worsen with activity and improve with rest. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and manage Sever’s disease.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Rouder from S.I. Podiatry. 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 office located in Staten Island, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.