Dr. Jarret Drucker

01/31/2024

Plantar fasciitis, a prevalent foot condition, induces pain and discomfort in the heel and the underside of the foot. Its onset involves inflammation or strain of the plantar fascia, a robust band of tissue supporting the foot's arch. Notably, individuals often experience a sharp, stabbing pain, most pronounced during the initial steps in the morning.

Various factors contribute to plantar fasciitis, including excessive foot pronation/flatfeet, high arches, obesity, overuse, and inappropriate footwear, with athletes, particularly runners, being susceptible.

Managing plantar fasciitis typically encompasses self-care practices like rest, ice application, stretching exercises, and wearing supportive footwear. Additional approaches involve physical therapy, orthotic devices, night splints, corticosteroid injections, and shock wave therapy. Surgery may be necessary for plantar fasciitis that does not improve with conservative treatment.

Applying proper care and treatment enables most individuals with plantar fasciitis to alleviate symptoms and resume regular activities.

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(212) 464-7066

01/30/2024

Hammertoe surgery, also known as toe correction surgery, addresses toe deformities resulting from tightened tendons and ligaments. A hammertoe, which is characterized by abnormal bending of one or more toes, causes discomfort and shoe-wearing challenges. The procedure involves correcting toe alignment by removing a small bone fragment or releasing tightened tendons. As an outpatient procedure, patients return home the same day.

Post-surgery, recovery entails wearing specialized shoes or casts to protect toes during healing. Initial days may involve some discomfort, including pain and swelling, but long-term benefits include relief from hammertoe symptoms, restoring mobility, and enabling comfortable use of regular footwear.

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(212) 464-7066

01/29/2024

Neuroma releases, also known as neuroma surgery or neuroma excision, are medical procedures aimed at alleviating the symptoms caused by neuromas, which are benign growths or thickened nerve tissues that commonly occur between the toes. Neuromas, often found between the third and fourth toes (Morton's neuroma), can cause pain, tingling, numbness, and discomfort due to the pressure they exert on nearby nerves.

During a neuroma release, a surgeon carefully removes the affected nerve tissue or the neuroma itself. This can involve making a small incision and dissecting the nerve tissue to relieve the compression and irritation on the nerve. The procedure's goal is to provide relief from pain and restore normal nerve function.

Neuroma releases are typically considered after non-surgical treatments like orthotics, shoe modifications, and corticosteroid injections have proven ineffective. While surgery offers potential relief, it's important for patients to discuss the procedure's risks, benefits, and recovery process with their podiatrist.

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01/22/2024

Achilles strains refer to injuries involving the Achilles tendon, the thick band of tissue connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. These strains typically occur due to overuse, sudden force, or repetitive stress on the tendon, leading to microscopic tears and inflammation. Common symptoms include pain, stiffness, and swelling around the back of the ankle.

Achilles strains are often associated with athletes, particularly runners and those involved in activities requiring jumping and sudden accelerations. Proper warm-up, stretching, and gradually increasing activity intensity can help prevent such injuries. Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) are initial treatment measures to alleviate symptoms. Seeking medical attention is crucial to determine the extent of the strain and to create a suitable rehabilitation plan.

Recovery from Achilles strains can take weeks to months, depending on the severity of the injury. Engaging in physical therapy and gradually reintroducing activities are essential for a successful and safe return to full functionality. Early diagnosis and appropriate care play a vital role in minimizing long-term complications and ensuring a faster recovery.

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01/11/2024

Hallux limitus and hallux rigidus are two foot conditions that affect the big toe joint, known as the metatarsophalangeal joint. Hallux limitus refers to a progressive limitation of motion in the joint, leading to reduced flexibility and increased pain during movement. It is usually caused by the gradual degeneration of cartilage in the joint, resulting in osteoarthritis.

On the other hand, hallux rigidus is a more advanced stage of the condition, where the joint becomes completely stiff and immobile. The limited range of motion can cause difficulty in activities such as walking, running, and bending the toe.

Both hallux limitus and hallux rigidus can be accompanied by swelling, inflammation, and the development of bone spurs. Conservative treatments for these conditions include rest, physical therapy, orthotic devices, and pain management. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove bone spurs, repair or replace the joint, or fuse the bones for stability.

Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and slow down the progression of these conditions. Consulting a podiatrist is essential for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan tailored to individual needs.

Call or book online today!
(212) 464-7066
www.druckerpodiatry.com

01/11/2024

Hallux limitus and hallux rigidus are two foot conditions that affect the big toe joint, known as the metatarsophalangeal joint. Hallux limitus refers to a progressive limitation of motion in the joint, leading to reduced flexibility and increased pain during movement. It is usually caused by the gradual degeneration of cartilage in the joint, resulting in osteoarthritis.

On the other hand, hallux rigidus is a more advanced stage of the condition, where the joint becomes completely stiff and immobile. The limited range of motion can cause difficulty in activities such as walking, running, and bending the toe.

Both hallux limitus and hallux rigidus can be accompanied by swelling, inflammation, and the development of bone spurs. Conservative treatments for these conditions include rest, physical therapy, orthotic devices, and pain management. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove bone spurs, repair or replace the joint, or fuse the bones for stability.

Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and slow down the progression of these conditions. Consulting a podiatrist is essential for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan tailored to individual needs.

Call or book online today!
(212) 464-7066

Dr. Jarret Drucker is a clinical and surgical-trained podiatrist specialized in the foot and ankle, including diagnosis & treatment of sports and overuse injuries.

12/13/2023

Neuromas of the foot, specifically Morton's neuroma, are a common and painful condition affecting the interdigital nerves, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. This condition occurs when the nerves become compressed and irritated, leading to the thickening of the nerve tissue. The primary cause is repetitive stress and pressure on the foot, often resulting from activities that involve tight footwear, high heels, or excessive running.

Symptoms of a foot neuroma include sharp, burning pain in the ball of the foot, tingling sensations, and a feeling of having a pebble inside the shoe. As the condition progresses, the discomfort may worsen, affecting daily activities and mobility.
Non-surgical treatments like rest, wearing comfortable footwear, and using orthotic devices can provide relief. However, in more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to decompress or remove the affected nerve.

Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial for preventing further complications and ensuring a pain-free, active lifestyle. If you suspect a neuroma in your foot, seeking professional medical advice is essential for proper evaluation and personalized treatment.

A tailored treatment regimen can only be made after an in-person evaluation.

Call today to schedule your appointment! (212) 464-7066