Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet are low or absent, causing the soles to make full contact with the ground. Diagnosis begins with a physical exam. A podiatrist will observe how you stand, walk, and bear weight. They may check the alignment of your ankles and ask you to rise onto your toes. If the arch does not appear when standing on tiptoe, it may suggest a more rigid form of flatfoot. Imaging tests such as X-rays or an MRI scan may be used to assess bone structure, joint alignment, or soft tissue involvement. Some people have flat feet without symptoms, while others may experience pain or fatigue in the feet, ankles, or legs. If you have foot discomfort or are unsure about changes in your foot shape, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and care plan.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Bergen Foot & Ankle. Our doctors 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 our offices located in Fort Lee, NJ and Flushing, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, most often affecting the big toe. This condition can result from a diet high in purines, kidney problems, or genetic factors. Symptoms include intense joint pain, swelling, redness, warmth, and, in some cases, fever and chills. Over time, repeated attacks may lead to joint deformity and lasting damage. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the condition, offering medication, lifestyle guidance, and managing flare-ups to prevent progression. If you notice intense, sudden pain or swelling in your big toe joint, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose the problem, and help you to manage pain.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Bergen Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Lee, NJ and Flushing, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain is often caused by plantar fasciitis or heel spurs, both of which can make walking painful and limit daily activity. Plantar fasciitis results from inflammation of the thick band of tissue called the plantar fascia running along the bottom of the foot. Heel spurs are bony growths that can develop on the heel bone due to chronic stress and inflammation. Symptoms include sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after rest. The heel may feel tender, swollen, or achy throughout the day. A podiatrist can determine the exact cause of your heel pain and recommend effective treatments. Included are custom orthotics, stretching routines, anti-inflammatory medications, night splints, or targeted exercises. In more severe cases, advanced treatments like injections may be needed. If you are dealing with ongoing heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Bergen Foot & Ankle. Our doctors 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 our offices located in Fort Lee, NJ and Flushing, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A bunion is most commonly recognized as the bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, but it may go by different names, depending on its location or severity. The medical term for a traditional bunion is hallux valgus, which refers to the sideways deviation of the big toe. When a similar bump forms at the base of the little toe, it is often called a bunionette or tailor’s bunion. These changes in terminology reflect differences in position, underlying cause, or the particular joint affected. Regardless of the name, bunions are usually caused by inherited foot structure, poor footwear, or conditions like arthritis. They can lead to pain, stiffness, and difficulty with shoes. Early treatment can reduce symptoms and slow progression. If you have a visible bump near your toe joint or discomfort when walking, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for proper evaluation and options.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Bergen Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Lee, NJ and Flushing, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.