Blisters are a common issue for hikers, often caused by pressure, direct friction, and moisture. When shoes rub against the skin repeatedly during a hike, the friction creates heat, which can cause the skin layers to separate and form a blister. This is especially true if the shoes are too tight or not broken in properly. Moisture from sweat or wet conditions also plays a significant role, softening the skin and making it more prone to damage from friction. To prevent blisters, it is important to wear well-fitting shoes that provide enough room in the toe box and good arch support. Choosing moisture-wicking socks and changing them regularly can help keep feet dry. Additionally, applying blister prevention tape or lubricants to hot spots can reduce friction, keeping feet comfortable and blister-free during hikes. Foot blisters can be uncomfortable, causing patients to temporarily cease hiking. They may also become infected, needing prompt medical attention. If this applies to you, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can treat foot blisters, and guide you on additional prevention techniques.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay of New Jersey . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Caldwell, and Galloway, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain can affect people of all ages and activity levels. It often stems from issues like plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, Achilles tendonitis, or bursitis. Plantar fasciitis, a leading cause of heel pain, occurs when the ligament supporting the foot's arch becomes inflamed due to overuse or stress. Similarly, heel spurs, which are bony growths at the bottom or back of the heel, may develop from prolonged strain on the plantar fascia. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon causes pain at the back of the heel where it connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. It is often triggered by repetitive activities or wearing poorly supportive footwear. Bursitis, or inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the heel, can result from friction or underlying conditions like arthritis. A podiatrist can identify the root cause of heel pain by conducting a physical examination and ordering X-rays and digital imaging tests, if needed. If you are experiencing chronic or extreme heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay of New Jersey . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Caldwell, and Galloway, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ignoring foot pain can have serious consequences for your balance, mobility, and overall foot health. Persistent pain often signals an underlying issue that, left untreated, may worsen over time. Conditions like stress fractures, heel pain, and psoriatic arthritis are common sources of foot pain and can severely impair foot function if not addressed. Even minor discomfort can cause changes in your gait, leading to strain in other areas of the body, like the knees, hips, and back. Determining the cause of foot pain is essential for effective treatment, as each condition requires a different approach. Addressing foot pain early can help you maintain balance, improve mobility, and reduce the risk of chronic issues, keeping you active and pain-free. If you suffer from foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Caldwell, and Galloway, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.