Your feet are the foundation of your mobility, supporting your body through every step of your day. Yet, they’re often the most neglected part of the body—until pain strikes. Whether you’re dealing with heel pain, deformities, or nail issues, understanding common foot problems and knowing when to see a podiatrist can make all the difference in your quality of life.
At The LV Foot Surgeons, our team in Fresh Meadows, NY is dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide range of foot conditions. In this article, we’ll explore the most common foot problems, their treatments, and signs that it’s time to schedule a visit with a podiatrist.
Why Foot Health Matters
Healthy feet are essential for daily movement and overall well-being. When your feet hurt, it impacts your posture, balance, and even your ability to perform routine tasks. Many foot issues begin subtly and worsen over time if left untreated. That’s why it’s important to address problems early, before they interfere with your lifestyle or lead to further complications.
Common Foot Problems You Shouldn’t Ignore
Foot pain isn’t something you should just “walk off.” Below are some of the most common foot problems people experience—and how a podiatrist can help.
1. Plantar Fasciitis
This is one of the leading causes of heel pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue connecting your heel to your toes, becomes inflamed.
Symptoms include sharp pain in the heel, especially after waking up or standing for long periods.
Treatment: Stretching exercises, orthotics, anti-inflammatory medication, and sometimes shockwave therapy or laser treatment.
2. Bunions
A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe. It pushes the big toe inward toward the second toe, often causing pain, swelling, and redness.
Causes: Genetics, improper footwear, arthritis.
Treatment: Padding, shoe modification, custom orthotics, and in severe cases, bunion surgery.
3. Heel Spurs
These are calcium deposits that cause a bony protrusion on the underside of the heel bone. They are often associated with plantar fasciitis.
Symptoms: Heel pain while walking or standing, particularly after rest.
Treatment: Physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, custom shoe inserts, or surgical removal.
4. Ingrown Toenails
This common problem occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to redness, swelling, and sometimes infection.
Causes: Improper nail trimming, tight shoes, trauma.
Treatment: Soaking the foot, antibiotics, and minor in-office procedures to remove the ingrown portion.
5. Toenail Fungus
Fungal infections in the toenails can lead to thickened, yellow, or brittle nails that are difficult to treat without professional help.
Treatment: Topical antifungals, oral medication, and advanced options like laser nail fungus treatment.
6. Flat Feet
People with flat feet have little to no arch, which can lead to foot fatigue, pain, and misalignment in the legs and back.
Treatment: Supportive footwear, orthotics, physical therapy, and in rare cases, surgical correction.
7. Hammertoes
A hammertoe is a toe that bends downward at the middle joint, causing discomfort and difficulty wearing shoes.
Causes: Imbalance in foot muscles, poorly fitting shoes, or trauma.
Treatment: Toe splints, orthotic inserts, and surgical correction for advanced cases.
8. Neuromas
This painful condition involves a thickening of nerve tissue, often between the third and fourth toes.
Symptoms: Burning pain, tingling, or the sensation of something being stuck in the shoe.
Treatment: Shoe modification, orthotics, corticosteroid injections, or surgery.
When Should You See a Podiatrist?
It’s not always easy to know when foot pain warrants a visit to a podiatrist. Here are some signs it’s time to seek professional help:
- Continued or increasing pain in the foot or ankle
- Swelling that doesn’t go down with rest and ice
- Visible deformities like bunions or hammertoes
- Recurring ingrown toenails or infections
- Difficulty walking or bearing weight on one foot
- Wounds or sores that are slow to heal (especially for diabetics)
At The LV Foot Surgeons, we encourage patients not to wait until the pain becomes unbearable. Early intervention leads to quicker recovery and fewer complications.
How The LV Foot Surgeons in Fresh Meadows Can Help
As trusted podiatrists in Fresh Meadows, NY, The LV Foot Surgeons provide comprehensive care for a wide range of common foot problems. Our clinic offers:
- State-of-the-art diagnostics, including digital X-rays and ultrasound imaging
- Custom orthotics tailored to your foot structure and gait
- Non-invasive and minimally invasive treatment options
- Surgical care when necessary, with a focus on fast recovery and long-term relief
Whether you’re dealing with a minor issue or a chronic condition, our team will develop a personalized treatment plan designed for your lifestyle and goals.
Tips for Preventing Foot Problems
While some conditions are genetic, many common foot problems can be prevented with proper care:
- Choose the right shoes: Avoid high heels and tight-fitting shoes. Look for footwear with arch support and cushioning.
- Practice good hygiene: Keep your feet clean and dry so you don’t get fungal infections.
- Trim toenails correctly: Cut your toenails straight across to prevent ingrown nails.
- Check your feet regularly: Look for changes in color, texture, or shape—especially important for diabetics.
- Stretch and strengthen: Incorporate foot exercises into your routine to improve flexibility and balance.
Conclusion
Don’t let foot pain sideline you. From bunions and plantar fasciitis to toenail issues and flat feet, these common foot problems are treatable with the right care. If you’re experiencing discomfort, swelling, or mobility issues, it may be time to consult a podiatrist. The LV Foot Surgeons in Fresh Meadows, NY, are here to help you walk comfortably and confidently again. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward healthier feet.