Items filtered by date: October 2025

Bunions are a common foot deformity that appears as a bony bump at the base of the big toe. They often develop due to genetics, flat feet, arthritis, or prolonged wearing of tight or narrow shoes. Symptoms include swelling, stiffness, and pain that worsens with walking or shoe pressure. As the big toe begins to lean toward the second toe, the base of the toe pushes outward causing a deformity. In mild cases, a podiatrist can help with conservative treatments, such as padding, custom orthotics, footwear modifications, and anti-inflammatory medications. However, when pain becomes constant, mobility is limited, or if the bunion interferes with daily activities, surgery may be necessary to realign the bones and relieve discomfort. A podiatrist will evaluate the severity of the bunion through a physical exam and X-rays and determine whether surgery is needed. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist if a bunion is causing ongoing pain or difficulty with wearing footwear.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Sayville Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Big toe joint replacement is a surgical option for people who have severe arthritis in the joint at the base of the big toe, known as the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Big-toe joint replacement surgery involves removing damaged bone and inserting an implant that reduces pain, while allowing some motion and helping to maintain the natural shape of the toe. Although the artificial joint does not move exactly like a healthy one, it can restore function and improve mobility. Because the implant has a limited lifespan, usually around 10 years, it is often recommended for those who place less stress on their feet. Recovery requires rest, gradual return to activity, and close monitoring of healing progress. A podiatrist can evaluate whether surgery is the best choice, explain the risks and benefits, and provide guidance throughout recovery. If you are struggling with debilitating pain in the big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment options.

In certain cases, in which the patient suffers from extreme pain or damage in a joint, joint replacement surgery may be deemed useful. If you have constant pain in a foot joint, consult with one of our podiatrists from Sayville Foot Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Joint Replacement Surgery?

Over time, joints wear down; this can be exacerbated by diseases and conditions. Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is when a damaged joint is surgically removed and replaced with a prosthesis. Prostheses, which can be made of ceramic, plastic, or metal, act as joints in lieu of an actual joint. One of the most prevalent causes for joint replacement is arthritis.

Arthritis in the Foot

Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body, including in the feet. Common types of arthritis in the foot are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The big toe is usually where arthritis occurs in the foot; this is known as hallux rigidus.

Joint Replacement Surgery in the Foot

The most common form of joint replacement in the foot is a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint placement. MTP joint replacement surgery is designed to treat hallux rigidus. Surgery is not intensive, and recovery occurs within one to two months after the procedure has been done. Overall, joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective way to treat pain in the joint of the foot.

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

Extensor tendinopathy is a condition that affects the tendons on the top of the foot, which help lift the toes and stabilize the foot while walking or running. When these tendons become irritated or overworked, they can cause pain and swelling across the top of the foot or around the ankle. The discomfort often worsens with activity, especially when running uphill, climbing stairs, or wearing tight shoes that put pressure on the tendons. This condition can develop from overuse, sudden increases in exercise, wearing poor footwear, or foot structures that place extra strain on the tendons. Rest, supportive shoes, and targeted stretching exercises may ease symptoms, while more persistent cases might benefit from orthotics, or other targeted treatments. If pain on the top of your foot is interfering with daily life or activity, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for diagnosis and a treatment plan that supports relief and healing.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Sayville Foot Care. Our doctors 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 office located in Sayville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Miami Dolphins wide receiver DeVante Parker recently suffered an ankle injury while playing against the Tennessee Titans. He was doubtful for the game against the Falcons and wound up not playing. Parker, who was a first round draft pick for the Dolphins, was considered to have the potential to have a good season. Regardless of whether the injury will take him out for an extended period or just one game, losing Parker for any length of time will be a blow for the Dolphins.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Sayville Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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