Items filtered by date: July 2025

As people age, changes in the feet, toes, and ankles can make it harder to stay steady, increasing the risk of falling. Balance depends on strong muscles, flexible joints, and healthy nerves that help the brain sense body position. When nerve damage, arthritis, fallen arches, or toe deformities occur, they may interfere with these functions. Loss of sensation in the feet, often linked to diabetic neuropathy, can make it difficult to detect changes in walking surfaces. Stiff joints or painful foot problems may limit the natural movement needed for stability. Even subtle foot issues can affect walking patterns and overall balance. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, nerve function, and joint health to identify causes of instability. Depending on the findings, treatment may include custom orthotics, supportive footwear, or surgery to correct deformities. If you notice a loss of balance or have fallen and injured your foot or ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on effective fall prevention tips. 

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 one of our podiatrists from Premier Ankle & Foot Specialists. Our doctors 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 offices located in South York, West York, and East York, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot crush injuries are severe and often involve multiple fractures, soft tissue damage, and potential complications. These injuries typically occur when a heavy object falls on or rolls over the foot, often in traffic accidents or workplace incidents involving machinery. The midfoot, including the cuboid and cuneiform bones, may be fractured. There also can be damage to the heel pad or surrounding tissue. Symptoms include intense pain, swelling, bruising, and in some cases, numbness or loss of mobility. Because these injuries often affect the foot’s ability to bear weight, surgery may be needed to stabilize the bones, especially when the structural arch of the foot is damaged. Managing traumatic foot injuries requires a careful evaluation of bone alignment and tissue viability. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the extent of injury, recommending surgery if needed, and guiding recovery to restore function and prevent complications. If you have experienced foot trauma, it is suggested that you make an immediate appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with one of our podiatrists from Premier Ankle & Foot Specialists. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

• Broken bones
• Muscle strains
• Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
• Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

• Bruising
• Inflammation/ Swelling
• Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in South York, West York, and East York, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a painful foot condition caused by strain and inflammation of the plantar fascia. This band of tissue supports the arch and connects the heel to the front of the foot. When the plantar fascia becomes damaged, ongoing heel pain may interfere with walking or standing. When pain continues for 12 months or more despite consistent medical treatment, surgery may be considered. A podiatrist may perform a plantar fasciotomy, which involves cutting part of the fascia to relieve tension. This procedure can be done in traditional open surgery or with a less invasive endoscopic method. Recovery generally begins with limited weight-bearing, with many people walking more comfortably within a few weeks and returning to full activity within two months. While surgery for plantar fasciitis is not needed in most cases, it may help reduce long-term pain and restore foot function when other options have failed. If you have foot pain from plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to determine whether surgery is an option.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Premier Ankle & Foot Specialists. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in South York, West York, and East York, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar heel pain is often caused by stress and inflammation in the tissues supporting the foot arch. Custom foot orthotics are uniquely designed to fit your foot's structure to provide targeted support where it is needed most. They help distribute pressure more evenly, reduce strain on the plantar fascia, and improve overall foot alignment. This can lead to lasting relief from pain and improved mobility. A podiatrist can assess the exact cause of your heel pain, take precise measurements, and create orthotics that promote healing and prevent further discomfort. Heel pain can interfere with your daily routine. If this applies to you, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to explore how custom orthotics can support your recovery and comfort.

Custom orthotics and shoe inserts are not just for cushioning the soles; they are about supporting the foundation of our body - our feet. The advantages extend far beyond immediate relief from discomfort. These personalized solutions, that Our doctors can prescribe, can significantly impact a person’s posture, alleviate pain in various parts of the body, and even enhance athletic performance.

As we lace up our shoes each day, having the right support can make a world of difference. Custom orthotics are like tailored suites for our feet, offering a bespoke solution to address our unique biomechanical needs. They provide stability where it is lacking, correct imbalances, and ensure that every step is a confident and pain-free one. 

Custom orthotics and shoe inserts offer long-term health benefits. By addressing issues such as overpronation or underpronation, heel pain, plantar fasciitis, etc. orthotics can help prevent injuries and mitigate the progression of existing conditions. It’s an investment not just in the present, but in the future health of your feet and consequently, your overall well-being. 

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in South York, West York, and East York, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone, often caused by long-term strain on foot muscles and ligaments. They are frequently associated with plantar fasciitis and may result from repeated stress, walking abnormalities, or footwear that lacks adequate support. Risk factors include obesity, flat feet, aging, and extended periods of standing or walking. Symptoms include sharp heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning. A podiatrist can diagnose heel spurs using imaging and physical examination and may recommend treatments, such as custom orthotics, stretching exercises, or footwear changes. If heel pain is affecting your mobility, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to find relief and regain comfort in your daily activities.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Premier Ankle & Foot Specialists. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our offices located in South York, West York, and East York, PA . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Hammertoe is a condition where one or more toes become bent at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. It often develops from wearing tight shoes or high heels that force the toes into a curled position. Causes may also include muscle imbalance, trauma, or arthritis. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, swelling, and difficulty wearing shoes. Risk factors include age, foot structure, and a history of foot problems. If left untreated, the joint can become rigid and require surgery to correct the problem. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity, recommend proper footwear, suggest exercises, or provide splints or custom orthotics. If you have symptoms of hammertoe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Premier Ankle & Foot Specialists. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in South York, West York, and East York, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.