Falls can affect a person’s safety, independence, and ability to complete daily activities comfortably. Many falls happen because of changes in balance, muscle strength, foot function, or the environment around a person. The feet and ankles play an important role in stability because they help support the body and maintain proper movement. Problems like foot pain, poor balance, or difficulty walking can increase the risk of falls. Symptoms that may contribute to fall concerns include weakness, unsteady movement, and reduced confidence while walking. A podiatrist can evaluate foot and ankle health to identify factors that may increase fall risk and recommend ways to improve stability.

This foot doctor performs a detailed examination to understand how foot health affects balance and mobility. The evaluation includes checking foot structure, strength, flexibility, walking patterns, and footwear choices. A podiatrist also reviews a patient’s history and movement concerns to identify possible causes of instability. Treatment includes personalized care focused on improving foot function, supporting safer movement, and addressing conditions that affect balance. A podiatrist may recommend treatment for foot problems like painful joints, pressure areas, or changes in foot alignment. A podiatrist also evaluates footwear because shoes that lack proper support can affect stability and increase the chance of losing balance.

Research shows that foot and ankle health are important parts of fall prevention because they influence balance and movement. A podiatrist helps patients understand how their feet affect overall stability and creates a care plan based on their specific needs. Professional foot care can support better mobility and help patients feel more secure while completing daily activities. Treatment plans are personalized according to examination findings, health concerns, and lifestyle needs. Regular evaluations allow a podiatrist to monitor changes in foot function and address concerns that may affect balance. If you have fallen and have injured your foot or ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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 Lesly Honore, MD, DPM from New York. 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 office located in Hempstead, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A sprained toe occurs when a ligament is stretched or torn. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that connect bones at a joint. This injury can affect any toe joint, including where the toe meets the foot. Pain, swelling, and bruising can begin soon after the injury. Patients can also have tenderness or trouble moving the toe. A severe sprain can make the joint feel unstable. In some cases a toe sprain may be mistaken for a fracture, because they have similar symptoms. Identifying the injury is important because they require different treatments.

A toe sprain is usually caused when the toe bends beyond its normal range. Stubbing the toe against furniture is one possible cause. The injury can also occur when the toe catches on the ground while the foot continues moving. Athletes face added risk because running, jumping, and quick changes in direction place extra force on the toes. A big-toe sprain caused by forceful upward bending is called turf toe. The severity depends on whether the ligament has mild damage, a partial tear, or a complete tear. A serious sprain can cause greater joint instability and require a longer recovery.

A podiatrist can examine the toe, check its movement, and test the joint’s stability. The examination also helps locate the damaged ligament. X-rays can rule out a fracture or other bone injury. Treatment depends on the location and severity of the sprain. A podiatrist can stabilize the toe with medical taping, a rigid-soled shoe, or a walking boot. They can also recommend changes to sports and work activities while the ligament heals. Many sprained toes heal in about three to six weeks, but severe injuries may take longer. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to check healing and help prevent lasting stiffness or joint problems. If you have sprained your toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Lesly Honore, MD, DPM of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

A foot stress fracture is a small crack in the bone that develops due to repetitive force rather than a single injury. These fractures commonly affect the metatarsal bones and are frequently seen in runners, athletes, and individuals who engage in high-impact activities. Unlike acute fractures, stress fractures form gradually when muscles become fatigued and are unable to absorb shock effectively. As a result, the bones take on more stress, leading to tiny cracks that can worsen without proper care.

Symptoms of a foot stress fracture often begin as mild discomfort and progress into more noticeable pain. The pain typically intensifies while walking, running, or standing for long periods of time. It may decrease with rest, but return once activity resumes. Swelling, tenderness, and localized pain in a specific area of the foot are common signs. Some individuals may also notice slight bruising or difficulty bearing weight as the condition advances. Early detection is important to prevent the fracture from becoming more severe.

The primary cause of foot stress fractures is overuse, particularly from repetitive high-impact movements, such as running, jumping, or sudden increases in activity levels. Training errors, such as increasing intensity too quickly, can place excessive strain on the bones. Wearing inadequate footwear that does not provide proper support or cushioning can also contribute to the problem. Environmental factors, including hard surfaces, may increase the amount of stress placed on the foot during activity.

Several risk factors can raise the likelihood of developing a stress fracture. Females are associated with a higher risk, particularly in athletes with hormonal imbalances or reduced bone density. Low levels of vitamin D can weaken bones and make them more susceptible to injury. Other factors include poor nutrition, improper biomechanics, and a history of previous stress fractures. If you have symptoms of a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Lesly Honore, MD, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

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

Sever’s disease, also called calcaneal apophysitis, causes pain in the growth plate at the back of the heel, oftentimes affecting children. A growth plate is an area of developing bone found in children and teenagers. Repeated pulling from the Achilles tendon can irritate the growth plate, especially during periods of rapid growth. Heel pain usually becomes worse while walking, running, or participating in sports. The pain can affect one heel or both. Some children also limp or avoid placing full weight on the affected foot because of discomfort. Early evaluation helps identify the condition before pain begins to interfere with school, sports, and other daily activities.

Several factors increase the chance of developing Sever’s disease. Running and jumping sports place repeated stress on the heel. Tight calf muscles can increase pulling on the growth plate. Flat feet or high arches can also change how force is distributed across the foot. Shoes that lack proper support can place additional strain on the heel during activity. A podiatrist diagnoses the condition by discussing symptoms, examining the foot, and checking for tenderness around the back of the heel. Imaging tests are not always necessary, but they can help rule out other causes of heel pain when the diagnosis is uncertain.

A podiatrist creates a treatment plan that reduces stress on the irritated growth plate and improves comfort. Treatment includes custom orthotics, heel cushions, and  wearing supportive shoes. These options help reduce pressure and improve foot alignment while walking. Regular follow-up visits allow a podiatrist to monitor healing and adjust treatment as the child grows. Early care can reduce pain, improve mobility, and support a safe return to normal activities. Most children recover completely once the growth plate matures. If your active child has symptoms of Sever’s disease, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management tips. 

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Lesly Honore, MD, DPM from New York. 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 Hempstead, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.