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Tuesday, 20 August 2024 00:00

What Is Morton’s Neuroma?

Morton's neuroma is a painful condition affecting the ball of the foot, typically between the third and fourth toes. It involves the thickening of tissue surrounding one of the nerves leading to the toes, causing sharp, burning pain, numbness, or a sensation of something being lodged in the foot. To diagnose Morton's neuroma, a podiatrist will perform a physical examination, checking for tenderness and a palpable mass between the toes. Imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI scans may be used for confirmation.  Treatment options include modifying footwear to reduce pressure on the affected area, using orthotic inserts, and administering corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation. In severe cases, surgical removal of the affected nerve may be necessary to alleviate symptoms and restore normal foot function. If you have pain in the ball of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay of New Jersey . Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

  • Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
  • Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
  • Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different 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 care needs.

Read more about Morton's Neuroma
Tuesday, 13 August 2024 00:00

Healthy Feet

Maintaining a daily foot care routine is vital for overall foot health and comfort. Begin by washing your feet with mild soap and warm water to remove dirt and prevent infections. Be sure to dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes, to avoid fungal issues. Regularly stretching your feet and ankles can enhance flexibility and reduce the risk of injuries. Incorporate simple stretches like toe raises and ankle circles into your daily routine. Trimming toenails properly is also essential. Cut them straight across to prevent ingrown toenails and avoid cutting too short, which can lead to discomfort. If you have developed any type of foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer treatment remedies and guide you on how to care for your feet daily.

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.

Read more about Every Day Foot Care
Tuesday, 06 August 2024 00:00

Shin Splints and the Feet

Shin splints, medically known as medial tibial stress syndrome, are a common condition resulting in pain along the inner edge of the shinbone, or tibia. This pain typically results from repetitive stress on the shinbone and the connective tissues that attach muscles to the bone from the ankle. Runners, dancers, and athletes who engage in high-impact activities are particularly at risk. The condition often occurs due to overuse, wearing improper footwear, or sudden increases in physical activity. Flat feet or abnormally high arches can worsen shin splints by causing improper alignment and distribution of stress during movement. Treatment for shin splints includes rest and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling. Stretching and strengthening exercises, along with wearing proper footwear, can prevent recurrence. A podiatrist can provide valuable assistance by evaluating your foot biomechanics and recommending custom orthotics to improve alignment and reduce stress on the tibia. If you have shin splints, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with this type of doctor for care.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

  • Achilles Tendonitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains
  • Broken Foot
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Stress Fractures
  • Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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.

Read more about Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Wednesday, 31 July 2024 00:00

It's Time for Beautiful Feet

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

Plantar fibromatosis and Ledderhose disease are related conditions characterized by the development of benign nodules or lumps in the connective tissue of the feet, affecting the plantar fascia and foot arch. These nodules, composed of fibrous tissue, can cause pain and discomfort, particularly while standing or walking. Plantar fibromatosis typically affects the middle of the foot's underside, while Ledderhose disease occurs on the underside of the foot arch. These conditions often cause a feeling of pressure or a sensation akin to walking on pebbles. While symptoms can vary, they generally worsen with weight-bearing activities due to the increased pressure on the affected areas. Relief options include orthotic devices, steroid injections, and in severe cases, surgical removal of the nodules to alleviate pain and restore foot function. If you have nodules or lumps on the bottom of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat these conditions.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay of New Jersey . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Plantar Fibroma

A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.

What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?

While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.

What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?

There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.

Treatment and Prevention

A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:

  • Steroid injections
  • Orthotics
  • Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump 

Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.

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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Plantar Fibroma
Tuesday, 23 July 2024 00:00

The Importance of Safe Footwear at Work

Wearing safe footwear at work is vital for preventing various foot conditions and ensuring overall health and safety. Wearing ill-fitting or inappropriate shoes can lead to issues such as blisters, calluses, and bunions, causing discomfort and affecting productivity. More serious conditions can include plantar fasciitis, which results from inadequate arch support, and metatarsalgia, caused by excessive pressure on the ball of the foot. Additionally, workplace hazards like heavy objects or slippery surfaces increase the risk of injuries like fractures or sprains without proper footwear. Choosing shoes with adequate support, cushioning, and non-slip soles can prevent these problems. Investing in the right footwear enhances comfort, reduces fatigue, and minimizes the risk of chronic foot conditions and acute injuries, ensuring a safer and more productive work environment. If you have had one or more foot injuries from wearing the wrong shoes while at work, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and educate you on appropriate shoes for your workday.

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.

Read more about Working on Your Feet
Tuesday, 16 July 2024 00:00

Various Types of Running Shoes

Running shoes come in various designs, each tailored for specific activities and impacting how feet hit the ground. Racing flats are lightweight and designed for speed, offering minimal cushioning to promote a natural, efficient stride. They allow runners to feel the ground more closely, encouraging a forefoot or midfoot strike. Distance spikes, on the other hand, feature spikes on the outsole for enhanced traction on track surfaces. These shoes are also lightweight but provide slightly more support than racing flats, helping runners maintain speed over longer distances. The spikes encourage a forefoot strike, maximizing propulsion and grip. Understanding these differences is vital for selecting the right shoe for your running goals, whether it is achieving maximum speed in a race or maintaining performance over a longer distance. Many people wear the wrong shoes for their style of running, and can endure foot injuries. If this applies to you, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat any foot condition and educate you on what type of running shoes to wear.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

  • Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
  • There should be little to no slipping at the heel
  • Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
  • Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
  • Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our 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.

Read more about Choosing the Right Running Shoe
Tuesday, 09 July 2024 00:00

Cracked Heels and Diabetes

Diabetes, a chronic condition marked by high blood sugar levels, can significantly affect foot health, leading to complications such as cracked heels. Diabetes impairs circulation and causes neuropathy, which reduces sensation in the feet. This lack of sensation makes it harder to notice dry skin and small cracks, allowing them to worsen unnoticed. Cracked heels occur when the skin surrounding the heels becomes dry and thickens, leading to fissures that can be painful and prone to infection. Poor blood circulation in diabetic patients further hampers the healing process, increasing the risk of complications. To prevent and treat cracked heels, maintain proper foot hygiene and moisturize daily, focusing on the heels. Avoid soaking feet too long, as this can dry out the skin further. Wear supportive, well-fitting shoes to reduce pressure on the heels, and regularly inspect feet for cracks or sores. For persistent or severe cases of cracked heels, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can provide specialized care and recommend appropriate treatments.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

  • Invest in a good foot cream
  • Try Using Petroleum Jelly
  • Ease up on Soaps
  • Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

  • Moisturize After Showering
  • Skip a Shower
  • Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
  • Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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.

Read more about Solutions for Cracked Heels

A broken foot can present with several clear symptoms, and it is vital to identify them for prompt treatment. One of the most telling signs is a sharp, severe pain that often worsens with movement or weight-bearing activities. A sensation of dislocated bones, where the foot feels misaligned or abnormal, is also common. Swelling and bruising typically develop rapidly around the affected area, indicating internal bleeding and inflammation. Visible deformities or an inability to move the foot or toes may also occur, in addition to a pronounced tenderness when touching the injured area. Treatment may include immobilization with a cast, use of crutches, and in severe cases, surgical intervention to realign the broken bones. If you feel you may have broken your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose it and treat it accordingly.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. 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.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

  • Bruising
  • Pain
  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Blue in color
  • Numbness
  • Cold
  • Misshapen
  • Cuts
  • Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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.

Read more about Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for a Broken Foot
Sunday, 30 June 2024 00:00

Heel Pain Can Be Treated!

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek professional help and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

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