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Types of Corns
A corn will typically develop as a result of excessive pressure. They can emerge between the toes, or on the bottom of the feet. Corns are described as a small area of skin that has become hardened, and can often be painful and uncomfortable. This ailment may be caused by wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or from medical conditions that can include hammertoes or bunions. Hard corns typically develop on the top of the outer three toes, and soft corns will form between the toes. Walking may also become difficult when a corn has formed. Some patients have found relief by wearing small pads over their corns, which may help to ease the friction. In addition, covering the corn and wearing shoes that leave ample room for the toes to move freely in, can also be helpful in alleviating some of the pain. If you are afflicted with a corn, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can recommend proper corn removal options for you.
If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay of New Jersey . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:
- Well-fitting socks
- Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
- Shoes that offer support
Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
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 and ankle needs.
Soaking Your Feet May Help to Alleviate Discomfort
Our feet provide support for the overall body. When the feet are properly taken care of, daily activities may easily be completed. The feet may feel better when your shoes fit correctly, and your toenails are frequently trimmed. Many patients find it relaxing to wash and dry their feet daily, followed by using a good moisturizer. This may help to maintain soft skin, which may possibly prevent cracked heels. It is suggested to patients who prefer to get pedicures to ensure that the salon is using clean and sterile instruments. If you would like additional information about the importance of everyday foot care, please consult with a podiatrist.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Everyday Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.
It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
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 and ankle needs.
Excessively Sweaty Feet
An uncomfortable ailment that causes the feet to sweat excessively is referred to as plantar hyperhidrosis. This condition may lead to foot odor, as well as medical conditions that can include toenail fungus or athlete’s foot. Hyperhidrosis occurs as a result of sweat glands that produce large quantities of sweat, which in turn, may cause embarrassment among affected patients. Research has indicated there may be methods that can be implemented which can help to manage this condition. These can include wearing the right socks for the corresponding season, choosing shoes that are made out of breathable materials, and applying an antifungal powder on a regular basis. Additionally, it may be beneficial to drink plenty of water, as this may help to maintain the normal body temperature. If you are afflicted with plantar hyperhidrosis, it is advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist for professional care and treatment.
If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact Dr. Douglas Mckay of New Jersey . Our doctor can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.
Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.
In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.
A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.
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 and ankle needs.
Different Reasons a Bunion May Develop
Bunions, otherwise recognized as a deformity of the big toe, can be incredibly painful when left untreated. They may easily be diagnosed by looking for a bony protrusion on the side of the big toe, and are typically more common among women and elderly patients. However, there are many reasons why someone may develop a bunion, one of those reasons being genetics. Another contributing factor may have to do with your shoes. Those who commonly wear constraining footwear, such as high heels, or cowboy boots, for extended periods of time may be more likely to develop a bunion. Injuries to the foot, as well as arthritis, can both increase your risk of developing a bunion. To help find relief from the pain bunions typically cause, it is suggested that you wear custom orthotics. For more information on treating bunions and how orthotics may help, please consult with a podiatrist for professional care.
If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay of New Jersey . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Bunion?
Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.
Causes
- Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
- Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development
Symptoms
- Redness and inflammation
- Pain and tenderness
- Callus or corns on the bump
- Restricted motion in the big toe
In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.
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.
Common Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot
A common fungal infection of the feet is known as athlete’s foot. It is caused by a fungus that thrives in warm and moist environments. These can consist of public swimming pools, locker rooms, and shower room floors. If you are to visit these types of places, it is suggested that appropriate shoes are worn, as this may help to prevent the fungus from entering your skin. There are also other factors that may make it easier for this condition to develop. These may include wearing socks that are wet for the majority of the day, or having a bandage on the skin for an extended period of time which may soften the skin. Common symptoms that are associated with athlete’s foot can include intense itchiness between the toes and on the bottom of the feet, and in more severe cases, blisters may develop. If you feel you have athlete’s foot, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the proper treatment.
Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.
What Is Athlete’s Foot?
Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.
Prevention
The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:
- Thoroughly washing and drying feet
- Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
- Using shower shoes in public showers
- Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
- Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot
Symptoms
Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:
- Redness
- Burning
- Itching
- Scaly and peeling skin
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.
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.
Before you start dancing...
Pain and Ingrown Toenails
The medical name for an ingrown toenail is known as onychocryptosis. This can happen as a result of the side of the toenail growing into the skin, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. Additional symptoms may include discharge draining from the affected area, and the side of the toe may appear swollen. A common reason an ingrown toenail may develop can be from shoes worn that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. Trimming your toenails incorrectly may also cause an ingrown toenail. It is beneficial for the nails be trimmed straight across, and not too short. If you notice you have an ingrown toenail, it is advised that you are treated by a podiatrist who can help you to prevent an infection from occurring.
Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay of New Jersey . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.
Causes
- Improper toenail trimming
- Genetics
- Improper shoe fitting
- Injury from pedicures or nail picking
- Abnormal gait
- Poor hygiene
You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.
Symptoms
Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.
Treatment
Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
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.
Common Factors That Influence Developing Toenail Fungus
When fungi gets underneath the toenail, it’s very likely for toenail fungus to form. In order to tell if you have toenail fungus, it’s important you look out for certain signs. Common symptoms of this condition may include discoloration, thickening, or lifting of the nail. In some cases, it’s also been known for fungus to cause the affected toenail to crumble or split. As far as developing toenail fungus, certain factors may increase your likelihood. These factors may include living in a hot or humid climate, having athlete’s foot, being diabetic, spending a lot of time in the water, wearing tightly fitted shoes that cause the feet to sweat excessively, and having a weak immune system. If you feel you might have developed toenail fungus, it’s important you seek help as soon as possible. We recommend you consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and advised treatment plan.
If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay of New Jersey . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Symptoms
- Warped or oddly shaped nails
- Yellowish nails
- Loose/separated nail
- Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
- Brittle, broken, thickened nail
Treatment
If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.
Prevention
In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.
In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.
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.
Why Stretching Is Important Before and After Running
People who experience running injuries may find that they lose the motivation to continue running or jogging. Additionally, this type of injury can affect everyday activities, and may cause severe pain and discomfort. The average runner typically runs 1400 steps per mile. With that in mind, it is important to properly stretch the muscles, tendons and ligaments to prepare for your activity. This can be accomplished by warming up and cooling down before and after running. Flexibility can be maintained by performing lunges, and mimicking movements such as marching. The bones can become stronger as strength training is practiced, in addition to increased running efficiency. If you would like more information about how running injuries can affect the feet, please consult with a podiatrist.
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Stretching the Feet
Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.
- Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
- Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
- Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
- Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.
It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.
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.
Work Shoes for the Job
There are several foot conditions that can occur if your job consists of standing for the majority of the day. Your feet may feel achy, and cracked heels may develop if you stand on hard surfaces. Additionally, your feet may become swollen, and blisters may form from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. There are several factors to look for in a work shoe. These can consist of choosing shoes that are enclosed and fastened, have adequate cushioning, and have a wide heel for ankle support. Additionally, it is important to make sure there is ample room in the top of the shoe, as this may help to avoid friction. It can be beneficial to sit down as often as possible, which may help the heels to feel better. If you would like more information about how to care for your feet while working during the day, please consult with a podiatrist.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Working on Your Feet
Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.
Positive Changes
Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.
Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.
Eliminate Pain
Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.
Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.
With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.
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 and ankle needs.
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Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked
Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.
Common Causes of Running Injuries
Many running injuries occur due to the repetitive motion the sport requires. This can often result in overuse. There are a number of reasons running injuries occur, and many of them can be prevented. For example, errors in your training can cause running injuries, as well as poor running form. A lack of stretching or warming up can also lead to damage while running. Wearing the improper footwear is another factor that influences the development of an injury due to running. Some signs of overuse include the gradual onset of pain, the feeling of stiffness or aching after a run, noticeable swelling or tenderness, and overall discomfort during or after a run. If you feel you have an injury caused by running and would like advice on treatment, we suggest you consult with a podiatrist for professional advice and care.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay of New Jersey . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.
What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.
Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.
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 and ankle needs.
What You Need to Know About Your Bunion
When the base of your big toe begins to jut outwards, that is normally a sign that you may have a bunion. This can occur due to a deformity with the toe joint, causing the big toe to begin to bend towards your other toes. Unfortunately, bunions are often accompanied with both pain and discomfort felt in the affected area. When this occurs, it is suggested you seek professional care from a podiatrist. They may develop due to hereditary reasons, as well as due to wearing tightly fitted shoes, socks, or tights, that do not conform to the shape of your foot. Bunion pads can be worn to help alleviate the pressure felt on the bunion, and icing the affected joint can be used as a means to lessen the pain experienced. For a proper diagnosis and an advised treatment plan, we suggest you consult with a podiatrist.
If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay of New Jersey . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Bunion?
A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.
Why Do Bunions Form?
Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions
How Are Bunions Diagnosed?
Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.
How Are Bunions Treated?
- Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
- Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
- Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
- Orthotics or foot inserts
- Surgery
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.
How Corns Develop
A corn on the foot may develop as a result of excess friction, and can be uncomfortable. It may develop between the toes, and appears to be a soft growth, often causing difficulty in walking. Additionally, many patients notice they form on top of the toes. This may be common in patients who have hammertoe. Mild relief may be found when the foot is soaked in warm water, as this generally helps to soften the corn. Corn pads can be worn while completing daily activities, and this is beneficial in protecting the affected area against additional friction. If you have corns, and would like advice about how to treat them, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.
Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay of New Jersey . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:
- Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
- Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
- Wearing only shoes that offer support
Treating Corns
Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
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 and ankle needs.
