Popping ankles refer to the clicking or snapping sounds that occur during movement of the joint. This may happen when tendons or ligaments shift slightly over bone or when gas bubbles form and release within the joint fluid. Causes include repetitive motion, previous injuries, or natural joint structure. Risk factors like weak muscles, loose ligaments, or arthritis can increase the chance of persistent popping and discomfort. While occasional popping may be harmless, frequent or painful episodes should not be ignored. A podiatrist can evaluate ankle function, identify underlying causes, and recommend strengthening and stretching exercises or other treatment options. If popping ankles are affecting your daily activities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to restore comfort and mobility.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with One of our podiatrist from Santi Podiatry Group. 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 offices located in on 5th Street and Kings Highway Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A noticeable bony bump on the bottom of the big toe may indicate a bunion has developed. If it forms on the pinky toe, it is referred to as a bunionette. A bunion may cause some patients to purchase larger shoes, and it may help to wear a protective covering over it. This ailment is mostly likely caused by wearing shoes that do not have ample room for the toes to move freely in. Additionally, patients who have a genetic history of bunions may be prone to developing them. Mild relief may be found when specific exercises and stretches are frequently performed, and this may help to strengthen the surrounding muscles. Patients whose daily life is negatively affected by bunions are strongly suggested to confer with a podiatrist who can recommend the best treatment methods, which may include surgery for permanent removal.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact One of our podiatrist of Santi Podiatry Group. 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 offices located in on 5th Street and Kings Highway Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Hammertoe is a condition in which the joints of a toe become deformed, causing the toe to bend abnormally downward. This condition generally affects the second toe, but can occur in the third, fourth, or pinky toes. The hammertoe may be flexible or rigid. Signs that indicate you have developed a hammertoe can include pain at the top of the toe due to pressure from your shoes, pain at the base of the toe, corns on top of the toe, redness and swelling, and a decreased range of motion in the affected toe. Treatments depend on the severity of the hammertoe and can include conservative measures, such as wearing specialized foot pads or shoe inserts. In more severe cases surgery may be necessary. If you suspect that you have a hammertoe, it is recommended that you visit a podiatrist for proper care and treatment.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact One of our podiatrist of Santi Podiatry Group. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in on 5th Street and Kings Highway Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Achilles tendonitis is inflammation of the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, often caused by overuse or repetitive strain. Symptoms include pain along the back of the heel, swelling, stiffness, and discomfort that worsens with activity. Ballet dancers are especially prone to this condition because of constant jumping, pointing of the toes, and dancing on the balls of the feet, all of which place intense stress on the Achilles tendon. Without treatment, the tendon can weaken and risk further injury. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the condition, recommending rest, stretching, and supportive footwear. If you have heel pain or stiffness, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment and relief solutions for what might be going on.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact One of our podiatrist of Santi Podiatry Group. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in on 5th Street and Kings Highway Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.