Items filtered by date: November 2020

Orthotics are defined as insoles that are worn inside shoes. Custom-made orthotics may be helpful in alleviating foot pain that comes from having flat feet, plantar fasciitis, or specific ankle conditions. They may be able to provide healthy muscle activity which can make the feet feel better. Additionally, orthotics can offer adequate shock absorption, and may be able to give an arch to patients that have flat feet. Orthotics can be beneficial in helping patients successfully accomplish daily activities. If you would like additional information about the benefits of wearing orthotics, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can determine if they are right for you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, 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 Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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.

There are numerous bones, joints, muscles, and tendons that make up each foot. The feet are considered to be the foundation of the body, and it is important to maintain everyday foot care. Practicing good hygiene habits may be beneficial in preventing potential foot conditions. The ailment that is known as athlete’s foot may be avoided when appropriate shoes are worn in public pools, shower rooms, and surrounding areas. It is important to wear shoes that fit correctly, as this may deter bunions, hammertoe, and corns. Many patients find it helpful to get frequent foot massages, and this can be good in promoting circulation. Please speak with a podiatrist if you would like additional tips on everyday foot care.

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.

If you are experiencing pain in the arch of your foot, you may find some relief by regularly performing foot stretches. One exercise that you can do is called a plantar fascia stretch. This exercise stretches the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. To do this stretch, sit in a chair and put the foot that hurts on top of the opposite knee. Hold the heel of your foot with one hand and hold the toes with the other hand. Gently pull your heel towards the body while simultaneously pulling the toes back with your other hand. Hold for 15-30 seconds, and repeat this stretch 2-4 times. You should feel a stretch along the bottom of your foot. For more information about what you can do to relieve arch pain, 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

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

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 medical term for the foot condition that is referred to as athlete’s foot is tinea pedis. It is considered to be an infection of the skin of the feet that is caused by a fungus. This type of fungus lives and thrives in warm and moist environments, which can include public swimming pools, shower room floors, and surrounding areas. Some of the symptoms that are associated with athlete’s foot include redness, itchiness between the toes and on the bottom of the feet, and in severe cases, blisters may develop. There are preventive measures which can be implemented that may help to prevent athlete's foot from developing. These can include wearing appropriate shoes while in moist areas and avoiding sharing towels, shoes, and socks. Mild relief may be found when an antifungal powder is frequently applied. If you have developed this ailment, it is strongly recommended that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can treat this condition.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey .  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are 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 and ankle needs.

If you are an athlete, you may be familiar with bruised heels. This can be a painful and potentially debilitating injury. It can occur from both acute trauma and from repetitive impacts to the foot. Some people have specific risk factors that can increase their likelihood of getting a bruised heel. These risk factors include excessive body weight, older age, wearing poorly cushioned or worn-out running shoes, a sudden increase in training, training on a hard or uneven surface, and walking or training barefoot. If you have a bruised heel, you can reduce pain and swelling by following the PRICE acronym. Protect, rest, ice, compress, and elevate the affected foot. You may also want to seek further treatment from a podiatrist.

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.