Items filtered by date: November 2023

Custom-made orthotics play a vital role in foot health and comfort. They are designed to provide support, alleviate pain, and correct biomechanical issues such as flat feet or high arches. When a podiatrist makes orthotics, the size and fit of your shoes are considered, as the wrong combination can lead to discomfort or negate the benefits of the orthotics. Shoe size is not just about the length, it also involves width and depth, especially when considering the addition of orthotics. Shoes that are too tight while wearing orthotics can cause pressure and discomfort, and shoes that are too loose can result in inadequate support and stability. It is often recommended to choose shoes with a removable insole, offering extra depth and a better fit for the orthotic. Some orthotic-friendly shoes are designed with additional features like a wide toe box or extra depth, ensuring a comfortable fit without compromising the orthotic's function. If you are considering custom-made orthotics, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist and wear the shoes that are best equipped for orthotic use for a proper fit.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Bergen Foot & Ankle. Our doctors 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 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.

Sesamoiditis, a condition that impacts the tiny sesamoid bones beneath the big toe joint, unveils itself as inflammation in this delicate area. These small, pea-shaped bones play a vital role in weight-bearing and facilitating smooth movement of the foot. Sesamoiditis typically arises from overuse or repetitive stress on the forefoot, particularly common among athletes engaging in activities that involve frequent pushing off the toes. Ballet dancers, runners, and individuals participating in high-impact sports are often susceptible. The condition may also be triggered by structural abnormalities in foot anatomy, such as having a high arch, or from wearing improper footwear that fails to adequately cushion and support the ball of the foot. Recognizing the causes of sesamoiditis helps individuals take preventive measures, including wearing proper footwear, and modifying activities to protect these small yet significant bones in the intricate structure of the foot. Sesamoiditis is a condition that is treated by a podiatrist. If you have developed this condition, it is strongly urged that you schedule an appointment with this foot doctor who can offer you effective treatment options.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact one of our podiatrists of Bergen Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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.

Running is a fantastic way to stay fit and relieve stress, but it can also take a toll on your feet and shoes. This is where the practice of running shoe rotation comes into play. It involves switching between different pairs of running shoes to distribute the impact and wear more evenly. The importance of running shoe rotation lies in several key benefits. First, it prolongs the lifespan of your shoes. Continuous use of the same pair can lead to faster wear and tear, reducing their support and cushioning. Rotating between multiple pairs allows each shoe to recover between runs. Additionally, it helps prevent overuse injuries. Each pair of running shoes has a unique cushioning and support system. By alternating between them, you may reduce the risk of overloading specific muscle groups and joints. This can help to lower the risk of injuries such as shin splints, stress fractures, and Achilles tendonitis. Different shoes can provide variations in comfort and performance, giving your feet a break from repetitive motion and potentially improving your performance. Whether you are a seasoned runner or just starting out, incorporating a rotation schedule into your running routine can help keep your feet healthy and your runs enjoyable. For more information about running shoes and the importance of rotating them or if you have endured a foot or ankle injury from running, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Bergen Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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.

Overlapping toes, also known as toe overlap or crossover toe, can be a painful and annoying condition. It occurs when one toe sits on top of another, making it difficult to wear shoes and, in some cases, inhibiting mobility. Toe overlap can be the result of genetics, wearing tight-fitting shoes, and muscle imbalances. It can also be associated with other conditions, such as bunions or hammertoes. When dealing with toes that overlap, several treatment options are available. Manual separation, involving the taping of toes into a straight position, can be effective for both children and adults when initiated early. Orthotic footwear, including specialized shoes and custom insoles, can help to alleviate pressure and promote proper toe alignment. Muscle imbalances and joint misalignment can be addressed through targeted exercises. In severe cases, or with the presence of large bunions, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct overlapping toes and their associated issues. If you are suffering the effects of toes that overlap, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can conduct a thorough examination in order to determine the most suitable treatment plan for you. 

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, 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 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 our offices located in Fort Lee, NJ and Flushing, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.