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Should I See a Podiatrist for a Foot Wart?
Foot warts, also known as plantar warts, are often found on the soles of the feet. They can be contagious and are generally caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). The warts usually begin as small, rough areas of thickened skin. Over time, they may spread along the surface of the foot and develop tiny black dots at their center. These dots are actually clogged blood vessels. If you notice warts on the bottom of your feet, it is a good idea to consult with a podiatrist. Sometimes plantar warts do not cause any symptoms and may go away on their own. Other times they can be painful, persistent, and unsightly. Pressure on the feet from bearing the weight of your body could cause warts to grow inwards, leading to significant pain while walking or standing. Diabetics should always see a podiatrist if they develop plantar warts because diabetes can greatly increase the risk of other foot complications. For more information about plantar warts, please consult with a podiatrist.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
About Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.
While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.
Symptoms
- Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
- Hard or thick callused spots
- Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
- Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing
Treatment
- Freezing
- Electric tool removal
- Laser Treatment
- Topical Creams (prescription only)
- Over-the-counter medications
To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.
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.
Athlete’s Foot in Children
Despite its name, your child doesn’t have to be particularly athletic to incur athlete’s foot, a fungal infection of the skin on the feet. The fungus that causes athlete’s foot grows on warm, damp surfaces such as public swimming pools, showers, and locker rooms. It can also thrive on moist feet, or spread from person to person. Athlete’s foot causes symptoms such as cracked, peeling, red, and scaly skin between the toes or on the soles of the feet, itchiness, and an unpleasant odor. Fortunately, treatment for athlete’s foot is usually simple and straightforward. Your child’s doctor will most likely prescribe a topical antifungal medicine, such as a cream or powder, to apply to the infected feet. In more severe cases, oral antifungal medication may be needed. If your child has athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay of New Jersey . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
- Make sure their shoes fit properly
- Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
- Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
- Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
- Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
- Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
- Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
- Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.
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.
Methods That Can Help Diabetic Patients to Feel Better
Diabetic foot is a condition that can require a hospital stay for some diabetic patients. It is a condition that may cause the patient to lose feeling in their feet, which can make it difficult to feel a cut or a bruise. It occurs as a result of elevated blood sugar levels. It is beneficial to control the amount of sugar that is ingested, and this is often helpful in keeping glucose levels within a normal range. Additionally, many patients find their feet feel better when they are gently washed and dried, and trimming the toenails correctly may help to avoid cuts on the toes. It is important to incorporate gentle exercise into your daily routine, as this may help to improve circulation and overall health. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to properly manage any foot-related problems that may arise because of this condition.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
- Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
- Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
- Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
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 Bones Can Break In an Ankle Fracture?
Your ankle is made up of three bones, all of which can be broken or cracked from an injury. The tibia is the larger of two main bones that make up your ankle. You can feel the lower end of it along the inside of your ankle. The fibula is the thinner of the two main ankle bones, and you can feel the lower end of this bone along the outside of your ankle. The talus is a wedge-shaped bone located deep inside the ankle, between the heel bone and the ends of the tibia and fibula. Ankle fractures are usually caused by a sudden, sharp twist of the ankle or a direct impact to the area. Symptoms include immediate, severe pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and difficulty walking. If you suspect that you may have fractured your ankle, it is strongly suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist as soon as possible.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
- Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
- Swelling around the area
- Bruising of the area
- Area appears to be deformed
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
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.
The Wagner Diabetic Foot Ulcer Classification System
If you suffer from diabetes, you may be familiar with the increased risk of developing poorly healing wounds on your feet. Small cuts, sores, or scrapes can go unnoticed due to neuropathy or nerve damage, and heal slowly because of poor circulation. These issues can make wounds grow larger and become infected, turning into diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). There are various classification systems for describing the general characteristics of these wounds. Doctors who use the Wagner system classify DFUs by their severity, in a graded system ranging from 0 to 5. A Grade 0 ulcer means that the skin is intact. Grade 1 signifies a superficial ulcer on the outer layers of skin. Grade 2 is a deep ulcer. Grade 3 is an ulcer with bone involvement. Grade 4 means that there is gangrene or dead tissue in the front of the foot, while Grade 5 means that the gangrene has spread to the entire foot. If you notice any wounds on your feet, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can treat wounds and help you manage your condition.
Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Wound Care?
Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic.
What Is the Importance of Wound Care?
While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.
How to Care for Wounds
The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.
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.
Arthritis Can Cause Pain in the Feet and Ankles
If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
What Causes Ankle Pain?
Ankle pain can occur due to various medical conditions or injuries such as sprains and strains—where the ligaments, muscles or tendons supporting the ankle become overstretched, torn, or otherwise injured. Ankle fractures—where one or more bones in the ankle break or shatter—can also be extremely painful, depending on the severity of the injury. When the Achilles tendon—which connects the calf muscle to the heel bone—becomes overstretched or torn, an Achilles tendon rupture can occur. Fallen arches can cause painful shifts in the ankle bone. Systemic illnesses can also be to blame for ankle pain. For instance, gout causes painful uric acid crystals to form on the ankle joint, osteoarthritis wears down cartilage and creates bone-on-bone friction, and rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease which can attack healthy joints, like those in the ankle. A podiatrist can examine you and perform various tests to diagnose your ankle pain and use a variety of treatments and procedures to heal it.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
- Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
- Ankle sprains
- Broken ankles
- Achilles tendinitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- Bursitis
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and 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.
Why Are My Feet Flat?
If your feet have no visible arch when standing, you’re not alone. Flat feet are common, affecting an estimated 12% of the US population. The majority of infants are born with flat feet and have an arch that develops over time. However, this does not happen for everyone. For reasons that are currently unknown, but that likely have to do with genetics and environmental factors, some people never develop an arch. It is also possible to develop an arch normally and then lose it over time. This collapse of an existing arch is known as acquired flat foot or fallen arches and is thought to be caused by the aging process and a degeneration of the tissues that support the foot and ankle. Acquired flat foot has also been linked to pregnancy. While feet that are flat from birth usually don’t cause any pain or discomfort, acquired flat feet often do. If you are experiencing any foot pain, it is suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms
- Pain around the heel or arch area
- Trouble standing on the tip toe
- Swelling around the inside of the ankle
- Flat look to one or both feet
- Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
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.
Why Do Heel Spurs Develop?
Heel spurs are the body’s natural reaction to repeated stress placed on the bottom of the heel bone where it attaches to the plantar fascia—the fibrous connective tissue on the bottom of the foot. Heel spurs are actually calcium deposits that build up on the heel bone over time due to tears, strain, and stretching of the plantar fascia, ligaments, muscles, and membrane covering the heel bone. There are several contributing factors to developing heel spurs, and the most common symptoms include pain all around and underneath the heel, inflammation and stiffness that does not get better with rest. If you believe you have heel spurs, make an appointment with a podiatrist for a full examination, diagnosis and proper treatment.
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 Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Caldwell, and Galloway, NJ . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Is Foot Reconstruction an Option for Permanent Relief?
Foot reconstruction is a type of surgery that patients may opt for to correct the structure of the foot. People can be born with abnormal feet, or it can happen from an injury. Additionally, specific foot diseases can affect the overall health of the body, and reconstructing the foot may enhance a better quality of life. Metabolic diseases that can include diabetes or gout may affect foot function, and walking can be difficult. If you are suffering from feet that inhibit daily activities, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine if this type of foot surgery is correct for you.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay of New Jersey . Our doctor 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 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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Gout Pain Can Be Managed
Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
What Is a Foot Contusion?
A foot contusion is another term for a bruise on the foot. This is typically a mild injury that occurs as a result of a direct impact to the foot. For example, you may develop a foot contusion after dropping a heavy piece of furniture on your foot or after getting kicked in the foot during a soccer match. The bruising and swelling characteristic of this injury is caused by small, damaged blood vessels leaking blood underneath the skin. Though contusions can sometimes look serious and cause discomfort or pain, they are usually not serious and get better without medical treatment. However, if you notice that the bruising, swelling, or pain is getting worse over time, or if you have trouble bearing weight on the foot, then it is suggested that you see a podiatrist, who can determine if you have a more serious injury.
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 Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Caldwell, and Galloway, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Effective Methods That May Help Poor Circulation
The condition that is known as poor circulation can have a negative effect on the feet. It can be caused by medical conditions that can include diabetes and high blood pressure, and many patients can experience numbness or a tingling sensation. Noticeable symptoms can consist of cold feet, hair loss on the legs and feet, and wounds may heal slower than usual. Effective prevention methods can include stopping smoking, and incorporating a gentle exercise routine into your daily regiment. Additionally, it is beneficial to consume a diet that is full of fruits and vegetables. If your feet have become numb, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage poor circulation.
While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Douglas Mckay of New Jersey . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Poor Circulation in the Feet
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.
Symptoms
Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
- Pain
- Muscle Cramps
Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.
As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication.
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 Are Walking Shoes Different Than Running Shoes?
Walking shoes and running shoes are designed to accommodate different types of weight distribution, impact, and strides. Walking is a low-impact activity where an individual’s body weight rolls from heel to toe—distributing it evenly throughout the feet. Running is a high-impact activity requiring the body to absorb approximately three times its weight in various parts of the foot, depending on the running style and speed of movement. Walking shoes have a thick outsole and are generally more structured than a running shoe. They offer cushioned midsoles, stability and support for the heel, ankles and calves, and wide toe boxes. Running shoes come in a range of styles to help alleviate the force various running strides put on different areas of the feet. They are typically lighter weight than walking shoes to allow airflow, but provide extra cushioning at the heel and toe. Running shoes also have varying levels of support but are typically more flexible than walking shoes. A podiatrist can suggest walking and running shoes and create custom orthotics that are best suited for an individual’s specific foot structure and needs.
For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.
Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes
There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.
You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.
Differences
Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.
Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.
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.
