A broken toe can cause pain, discomfort, and temporarily change the way daily activities are accomplished. A broken toe is difficult to walk on, and rest is needed to accelerate recovery. Some patients may find it helpful to use crutches, which can keep the weight off of the toe. A broken toe can happen from stubbing it on a piece of furniture, enduring an injury, or dropping a heavy object on it. Fractured toes may occur more often than breaking other bones in the body. This is because the bones in the toes are small, and are located at the end of the body. Common symptoms of this type of injury can consist of immediate bruising, swelling, and the affected area may be red. If a toe is severely broken, a bone may protrude through the skin and can appear to be deformed. Many people have positive results in using the buddy taping method for treatment. This can be successful in less severe fractures and is done by taping the broken toe to the toe next to it. If you have broken your toe, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist sooner rather than later who can guide you toward the correct treatment method.
Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact the podiatrists from The Foot & Ankle Center of New Jersey. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is a Broken Toe?
A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Ridgewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Many people enjoy wearing flip flops in the summer months. These types of shoes are constructed with a soft sole, and straps on top of the shoe are held together by a thin piece of material, which is worn between the first and second toe. This is necessary in keeping the shoe on the foot, and their simplicity and numerous colors can make flip flops desirable to wear. Conversely, studies have shown that the more flip flops are worn, the greater the possibility of having aching feet. This may be from flip flops having minimal support, and the gait or walking style may be altered from the lack of cushioning. This generally provides adequate shock absorption as walking is done throughout the day, and heel pain may occur when this is missing from the shoe. Additionally, the toes may hurt from gripping the top of the shoe to keep it on the foot, and the arch may begin to hurt. If you would like more information about how frequently wearing flip flops can affect your feet, please consult a podiatrist who can guide you toward wearing shoes that are solidly constructed.
Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact the podiatrists from The Foot & Ankle Center of New Jersey. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
Flip-Flops and Feet
When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops. Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer. However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.
How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?
Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?
Yes. Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections. Common injuries and ailments include:
I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?
When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet. These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Ridgewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Orthotics are shoe inserts that serve a variety of purposes and can be either custom-made or over-the-counter. Some orthotics are simply meant to provide support and others are meant to correct certain foot deformities. While orthotics are used by adults sometimes children might also benefit from wearing orthotics. Many children are afflicted by a condition known as Sever’s disease, which causes heel pain. Heel pain is a common painful sensation among children. The use of certain orthotic devices can help combat the damaging effects of heel pain among children and young adults. Besides heel pain, there are also many other different common symptoms that children experience in the feet that can be addressed through the use of orthotics. For example, misaligned feet and knee pain are other common symptoms in children, and orthotics might be a good option. If you have a child that is experiencing any of these problems, contact a podiatrist today.
If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact the podiatrists from The Foot & Ankle Center of New Jersey. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Are Orthotics?
Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.
Over-the-Counter Inserts
Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.
Prescription Orthotics
If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.
If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Ridgewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
Many different foot afflictions primarily impact a bone in the feet. Cuboid syndrome is one such condition, and it primarily targets the cuboid bone. The cuboid bone is a cube-shaped bone on the outer side of the foot. When it moves out of alignment, this is known as cuboid syndrome. There are several different ways that a medical professional might go about treating cuboid syndrome. One common way is by performing what is known as a “cuboid whip,” which is essentially a manual manipulation of the bone back into alignment. The medical professional can perform this manual procedure by making the patient lie down, relax the leg, and extend the knee while the professional pops the cuboid bone back into place. As a result of this manipulation, the patient might hear some kind of pop sound when the bone shifts back into place. Contact a podiatrist today for more information.
Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with the podiatrists from The Foot & Ankle Center of New Jersey. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.
Causes
The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:
Symptoms
A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Ridgewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
People who have cracked heels may notice they become worse in the colder months. This condition can cause your feet to look older and may be painful or uncomfortable. There are various reasons why cracked heels can develop, including standing on hard surfaces and wearing shoes that have an open back. Flip flops and sandals also fall into this category and if you choose to wear this shoe, it helps if it has a strap to secure the heel. People who are obese may find they have cracked heels due to the added weight the heels endure. Medical conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and thyroid disorders may lead to cracked heels. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this ailment include redness, flaky skin, and in severe cases, the cracks in the heel may bleed causing an infection. There are several treatment methods for cracked heels and if you suffer from this condition, it is advised that you consult a podiatrist who can help you with effective healing techniques.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact the podiatrists from The Foot & Ankle Center of New Jersey. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.
How Do You Get Them?
Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.
Promote Healing
Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.
Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.
Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.
Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin.
Change in Diet
Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.
Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Ridgewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
One of the noticeable symptoms of toenail fungus is yellowed nails. The nails can also become thickened and brittle, and in severe cases, fall off. The name of the fungus is known as onychomycosis and research has shown it accounts for approximately 50 percent of nail problems. Older people are more prone to developing toenail fungus than the younger population, and this may be a result of reduced blood flow that happens as the aging process occurs. This type of fungus lives and thrives in warm and moist environments, including shower room floors, locker rooms, and public swimming pool areas. The fungus can enter the body through tiny cracks in the skin and it is wise to wear appropriate shoes while in these areas. Existing medical conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and diabetes may lead to the development of toenail fungus. If you see signs of toenail fungus, please contact a podiatrist who can guide you toward the correct treatment process which varies by person.
For more information about treatment, contact the podiatrists of The Foot & Ankle Center of New Jersey. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.
Antifungals & Deterrence
Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.
Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Ridgewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Foot massages have many benefits and may relieve existing foot pain. Reflexology and massages are performed on the feet and can positively affect the organs in the body. There are differences between the two types of foot therapy. Foot massages can be described as more of a general term for manual techniques that are applied to the feet, and this differs from reflexology in which specific practices and theories are applied. Foot reflexology uses the pressure points on the feet that correspond to various organs in the body. This can be helpful in stimulating the central nervous system which may help to promote healing. Additionally, there may be different types of foot massages, including Swedish, Shiatsu, and Thai massages. Having any type of these massages may improve circulation, reduce muscle tension, and reduce stress and pain. If you would like more information about the benefits of these types of foot therapies, please contact a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.
Foot therapy is often necessary for those recovering from either foot deformities or foot injuries. If you have concerns regarding therapy, consult with the podiatrists from The Foot & Ankle Center of New Jersey. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Most Common Injuries
People who are active or athletes are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is often important to take part in physical therapy in order to quickly get back on the right track.
What to Do When Injured
Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.
During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. Physical therapy often involves:
Basic stretching and twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.
Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.
Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Ridgewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
The arches of the feet work as a spring that bears the weight of your body whenever you take a step. Most people are familiar with the arch on the inner sole of the midfoot. However, three separate arches combine to form a triangle in the feet that absorb the shock of walking and running. There are two longitudinal arches, medial and lateral, that run along either side of the foot from the heel to the top of the 1st and 5th metatarsal. Plus there is a transverse arch that runs across the midfoot, connecting the tops of the metatarsals. These three arches are supported by a number of ligaments, muscles, tendons, and bones that all help to support the weight of the body. When the medial longitudinal arch is too high, it causes a condition called pes cavus, which can be painful and cause gait problems. When the longitudinal arches collapse, it results in flat feet, known as pes planus. Both conditions, which can affect the way you carry out your daily activities, can be diagnosed and treated by a podiatrist.
If you have any concerns about your feet, contact the podiatrists from The Foot & Ankle Center of New Jersey. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Biomechanics in Podiatry
Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.
A History of Biomechanics
Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.
Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Ridgewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
