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Ankle Injuries
Ankle injuries are common, with sprains being the most frequent. Understanding ankle anatomy and injury mechanisms is important. An examination involves assessing deformity, swelling, and tenderness and checking circulation and sensation. Treatment focuses on stabilizing the ankle, reducing pain and swelling, and ensuring proper immobilization. Understanding the injury's cause and conducting a thorough examination is important for effective treatment and patient care. If you have sustained an ankle injury, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be 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
- 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.
Causes of Corns on the Feet
Corns, also known as helomas, are a common foot condition characterized by thickened, hardened areas of skin that develop in response to friction or pressure. These small, round, or conical lesions typically form on the toes, sides of the feet, or on weight-bearing areas. Corns result from repetitive rubbing or friction against footwear or adjacent toes, leading to the accumulation of dead skin cells. Wearing ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or tight socks, or having foot deformities such as hammertoes or bunions can increase the risk of corn formation. Additionally, activities that involve prolonged standing or walking contribute to increased pressure on the feet, further predisposing individuals to corns. Poor foot hygiene and inadequate moisture control may also contribute to corn development. While corns are generally harmless, they can cause discomfort, pain, and difficulty wearing shoes. If you have developed a corn on your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment methods.
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.
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.
Assessing the Severity of a Stubbed Toe
When you stub your toe, the immediate pain and discomfort can be intense. Distinguishing between a minor injury and a more serious condition is essential for appropriate treatment. The first thing to do is to observe the toe for signs of trauma such as swelling, bruising, or deformity. Minor swelling and discomfort are common after stubbing your toe and usually subside with time. However, if the pain is severe and persists beyond a few hours, or if you notice significant swelling or bruising, it may indicate a more severe injury such as a fracture or dislocation. Pay attention to changes in movement and sensation as well, and if you find it difficult to move the toe or experience numbness or tingling, it could signify nerve damage or a more serious injury. Additionally, if the toe appears misaligned or if you notice an open wound, seek medical attention promptly. If you have stubbed your toe, and are experiencing persistent pain or discomfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Toe pain can 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.
What Causes Toe Pain?
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Trauma
- Sports injury
- Wearing shoes that are too tight
- Arthritis
- Gout
- Corns and calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Blisters
- Ingrown toenails
- Sprains
- Fractures (broken bones)
- Dislocations
When to See a Podiatrist
- Severe pain
- Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
- Signs of infection
- Continued swelling
- Pain that prevents walking
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
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.
Chronic Cases of Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails can become chronic if left untreated. Causes can include improper nail trimming, wearing tight footwear, obesity, trauma, excessive sweating, fungal infections, and hormonal changes. Symptoms encompass pain, swelling, redness, and pus formation. Classification into three stages guides treatment decisions, with conservative measures recommended for mild cases. Conservative approaches include proper nail trimming, wearing roomy shoes, and using gauze or specialized materials to separate the nail from the flesh. Surgical intervention becomes necessary for stages two and three, involving either partial or total nail removal and destruction of the lateral matrix to prevent regrowth. Regular podiatry care and adherence to post-treatment protocols are necessary for successful management of ingrown toenails. If you have repeated experience with ingrown toenails, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation of the stage you are experiencing, in addition to obtaining proper treatment.
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.
Exploring the Muscles and Bones of the Feet
The feet, intricate structures that are comprised of numerous bones and muscles, play a vital role in mobility and stability. Among the key bones are the tarsals, metatarsals, and phalanges, forming the arches and providing support for the body's weight. Ligaments connect these bones, offering stability and flexibility during movement. The muscles of the feet, categorized into intrinsic and extrinsic groups, facilitate intricate movements necessary for walking, running, and balancing. Intrinsic muscles, found within the foot, control fine movements of the toes and arches, while extrinsic muscles, originating in the lower leg, aid in broader movements such as dorsiflexion and plantarflexion. Together, these muscles and bones work harmoniously to absorb shock, distribute pressure, and maintain proper alignment during various activities. Understanding the anatomy and function of the feet is essential for preventing injuries and optimizing performance in everyday tasks and physical activities. By nurturing foot health through wearing proper footwear, stretching, and strengthening exercises, individuals can ensure the longevity and functionality of their feet for years to come. If you would like additional information about how the bones and muscles in the feet work in harmony, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.
If you have any 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.
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
- Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
- In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.
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 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.
Medical Intervention for a Broken Toe
Each toe consists of two or three small and delicate bones that are susceptible to fractures, commonly caused by incidents like stubbing your toe or heavy object impacts. Most broken toes can be managed without surgery and treated conservatively. However, severe injuries include situations where the toe becomes crooked, there is an open wound, or if it involves the big toe, necessitating care from a podiatrist. In cases involving the big toe, casting or splinting may be required for healing, with occasional surgery if bone fragments disrupt proper healing. Symptoms of a broken toe include pain, swelling, stiffness, and bruising lasting up to two weeks. Crooked toes may need realignment, either with or without surgery. Initial symptom relief involves rest, elevation, and pain relievers. Buddy taping and wearing appropriate footwear can assist healing, with gradual resumption of activity once swelling subsides. If you have broken your toe and you have concerning symptoms, such as numbness, increased pain or swelling, open wounds, fever, slow healing, or unusual discoloration, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible for treatment.
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 Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor 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
- Swelling
- Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
- Stiffness
- Nail Injury
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 one of our offices located in Caldwell, and Galloway, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?
Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.
Types and Symptoms of Foot Arthritis
Foot pain can be a common issue, often arising from various causes, such as sports activities, prolonged standing at work, or wearing ill-fitting shoes. It can range from minor discomfort to debilitating pain, and its roots can be diverse. Overuse, strain on tendons or ligaments, fractures, or arthritis are some of the contributing factors. Arthritis can significantly impact foot health. Osteoarthritis, or OA, the most common type, can affect the foot's 33 joints, leading to pain and misalignment. Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, an autoimmune form, often starts in small hand and foot joints, causing pain and swelling. Psoriatic arthritis, or PsA, affects skin and joints, causing unique issues like dactylitis and plantar fasciitis. Gout, characterized by uric acid crystals, can cause sudden, intense pain, generally in the big toe. In systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE, foot pain is often overlooked. Lupus-related arthritis, muscle, nerve, and soft tissue issues can lead to foot problems. Immunosuppressant medications increase the risk of complications, making proper footwear and podiatric care vital for lupus patients. If you have foot pain of any sort that is not a one-time issue, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. 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.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain. The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it. Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.
Symptoms
- Swelling
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Decreased Range of Motion
Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.
Risk Factors
- Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
- Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
- Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
- Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
- Age – Risk increases with age
- Gender –Most types are more common in women
- Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary
If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best 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 care needs.
Symptoms and Treatment of Plantar Warts
Plantar warts, caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, are thick, rough skin growths found on the bottom of the foot. While they are benign, the discomfort they can cause is far from trivial. Plantar warts typically form on pressure points such as the heel or ball of the foot, entering the skin through cuts or scratches. Direct contact with an infected surface or person can also lead to their development. Treatment options include keratolytic therapy, cryotherapy, immunotherapy, and laser therapy. In severe cases, surgery is needed. Keratolytic therapy employs acid medication to thin the wart, prompting the outer skin layer's shedding. Cryotherapy involves freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen, creating a red blister that eventually leads to the wart's natural removal. Immunotherapy, using creams or shots, enhances your immune system to combat HPV and eliminate the wart. Laser therapy utilizes focused light to cut away the wart, while surgical removal, performed by numbing the skin and burning the area, becomes necessary in some cases to prevent recurrence. If you have been infected with plantar warts, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can examine your foot and suggest the treatment option that is best for you.
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.
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Understanding Talipes Equinovarus, or Club Foot
Talipes equinovarus, commonly known as clubfoot, is a congenital foot condition characterized by abnormal positioning of the foot and ankle. In this disorder, the foot turns inward and downward, creating a distinctive appearance where the sole faces inward and the heel points upward. The precise cause of talipes equinovarus remains unclear, though a combination of genetic and environmental factors is believed to contribute. Early diagnosis is vital for effective management, often involving a series of manipulative techniques, casting, and, in some cases, surgical intervention. Left untreated, talipes equinovarus can lead to gait abnormalities and hinder normal physical development. Though the condition poses challenges, advancements in medical interventions provide hope for improved outcomes. If your child has been born with this foot condition, it is strongly suggested that you seek the expert advice of a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment methods.
Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. 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.
Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.
What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?
A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.
What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?
Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:
- Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
- Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
- Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
- Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
- Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
- Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.
Treatment and Prevention
While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.
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.
Potential Relief Options for Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis, a common foot ailment affecting people between 25 and 65 years old, results from the overloading or overstretching of the plantar fascia, which is the supportive tissue beneath the foot's arch. A podiatrist may offer a variety of treatment options tailored to manage the pain of plantar fasciitis and help toward healing. Rest and support are integral to short-term management. Utilizing a walking boot and crutches allows the foot to rest, aiding in the recovery process. Corticosteroid injections become a consideration in cases of severe pain and inflammation resistant to other conservative treatments. However, caution is warranted due to potential weakening of the plantar fascia and the risk of rupture, which can lead to chronic pain and foot flattening. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy is a noninvasive procedure used by some podiatrists to stimulate healing in plantar fascia tissue. However, its effectiveness varies among individuals. Low-level laser therapy is sometimes employed by podiatrists to reduce the pain and inflammation associated with plantar fasciitis, offering relief for up to three months. In cases where nonsurgical treatments prove insufficient, foot surgery may be considered. But it typically is reserved for situations where significant improvement has not been observed through other methods. To find out more healing from plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment plan.
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Excessive running
- Having high arches in your feet
- Other foot issues such as flat feet
- Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
- Being on your feet very often
There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.
Prevention
- Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
- Maintain a healthy weight
- If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain
There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best 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 care needs.
Common Causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain is a prevalent issue that affects people of all ages, whether you are an athlete, a busy professional, or a parent. Plantar fasciitis is the most common complaint of heel pain. It occurs when excessive pressure on the feet damages the plantar fascia ligament, resulting in pain and stiffness. This condition is often associated with activities that put stress on the feet, like running or standing for extended periods. The next most common causes of heel pain are sprains and strains, which are injuries to the body. These ailments can range from minor to severe and are often the result of physical activities or accidents. A fractured heel can be caused by accidents, falls, or severe trauma. This is considered a medical emergency and requires urgent care. If you experience sudden, severe pain in your heel, in addition to swelling and difficulty bearing weight, it is beneficial to seek immediate medical attention. Achilles tendonitis is another common reason for heel pain, caused when the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel becomes inflamed due to overuse injuries. Finally, bursitis is an inflammation of the fluid filled sacs surrounding joints, where tendons, skin, and muscle tissues meet bones. It can lead to heel pain and discomfort. If you have any type of heel pain that inhibits your daily life, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.
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.
Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?
If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!
