Items filtered by date: December 2024

Bunions, medically known as hallux valgus, occur when the big toe shifts toward the smaller toes, causing a bony bump to form on the inside of the foot. This misalignment often develops gradually, with genetic factors and wearng ill-fitting footwear being common contributors. The protrusion can cause discomfort, especially when tight or stiff shoes rub against it, resulting in redness, swelling, or pain around the joint. As the toe deformity progresses, it may lead to uneven pressure distribution, sometimes causing pain beneath the ball of the foot. Certain non-surgical bunion treatments, like appropriate footwear and wearing custom orthotics, can help to relieve bunion symptoms. However, surgery  may become necessary when persistent pain interferes with your daily activities. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the bunion, offer specific treatments, and recommend strategies to prevent further progression. If you are suffering from bunion pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

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.

Neuropathy in the feet occurs when the nerves in the feet are damaged, leading to a variety of symptoms. Common signs include numbness, tingling, a burning sensation, and sharp pain in the feet. People with neuropathy may also experience weakness, difficulty walking, and a lack of coordination due to reduced sensation. To find relief, regular walking can help improve circulation and strengthen the feet, which may reduce symptoms. Soaking the feet in warm water with Epsom salt can soothe discomfort and ease muscle tension. Additionally, reducing alcohol consumption is helpful, as excessive drinking can worsen nerve damage and increase pain. Managing underlying conditions, such as diabetes, through proper care and medication, can also significantly help control neuropathy symptoms. If you are suffering from neuropathy in the feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for help.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists  from Bergen Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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.

Metatarsalgia is characterized by pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot, often radiating into the toes. It occurs when excessive pressure is placed on the metatarsal bones, which bear much of the body’s weight during walking or running. High-impact activities, improper footwear like high heels or unsupportive shoes, foot deformities, or conditions such as arthritis or bunions can contribute to the development of metatarsalgia. The pain, often described as sharp, aching, or like walking on pebbles, can extend to the toes due to the close proximity of nerves and tissues. To manage metatarsalgia, rest, switch to supportive footwear with cushioning, and use insoles or padding to redistribute pressure. If pain persists, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for further evaluation and treatment to prevent the worsening of symptoms.

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.

Allowing kids to walk barefoot offers numerous benefits for their development and overall well-being. When children walk without shoes, their feet can grow naturally, promoting healthy arch formation and improving foot strength. Barefoot walking also enhances sensory feedback, allowing children to better understand their surroundings and develop improved balance. Additionally, walking without shoes can increase safety awareness, as children become more mindful of the surfaces they walk on, which can help prevent accidents. Another advantage is that walking barefoot encourages fun and freedom, allowing children to engage more fully with their environment. By spending time barefoot, kids can also help extend the lifespan of their shoes, as they do not wear out as quickly. If you have questions or would like additional information about the benefits of your child walking barefoot, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can address any concerns you may have.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, 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.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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.

Bacterial and fungal foot infections are common and can cause significant discomfort. Athlete's foot, a fungal infection, is caused by the growth of fungi in warm, damp environments like sweaty shoes or public showers. Symptoms include itching, burning, redness, and peeling skin, often between the toes. Bacterial infections, such as cellulitis, occur when bacteria enter through cuts or blisters, causing redness, swelling, pain, and sometimes fever. Both conditions can worsen if left untreated. Treatment for athlete’s foot typically involves antifungal creams or oral medications, while bacterial infections may require antibiotics. Keeping the feet clean and dry, wearing breathable footwear, and using antifungal powders can help prevent infections. A podiatrist can diagnose and treat foot infections, providing antifungal or antibiotic prescriptions and offering guidance on proper foot hygiene. If you are experiencing symptoms of a foot infection, it is important to seek care. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to get the right treatment and avoid complications.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Bergen Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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.