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The purpose of the toenail is to protect the toes against injury. Many patients experience toenail fungus at some point in their lives. They often notice the nail will change consistency and has a yellow or white tinge to it. Additionally, the nail will become darker and thicker as the fungus grows deeper into the nail bed. This condition is considered to be contagious, and the fungus that causes this thrives in warm and moist areas. These include public pools and surrounding areas, shower room floors, and locker rooms. As the fungus progresses, the nail may become brittle, and may have a foul odor to it. It may be possible to prevent this type of fungus from entering the body. This can be accomplished by wearing appropriate shoes while in public areas, and changing your socks often if they are wet for the majority of the day. Please consult with a podiatrist for additional information about toenail fungus.
If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Livingston Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Symptoms
Treatment
If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.
Prevention
In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.
In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Many people enjoy wearing flip-flops in the warmer months. It is simple to slip your feet into a pair of these type of shoes, but they may cause uncomfortable foot conditions. This is a result of an absent arch in the shoe, in addition to lack of cushioning in the heel area. This can lead to chronic heel pain, which is often known as plantar fasciitis. If the heel is not properly supported, calcium deposits can form, often resulting in heel spurs. The toes can become fatigued as they grasp the bottom of the flip-flop to maintain stability. If you enjoy wearing these types of shoes, it is helpful to wear sandals that have a strap in the back that holds the foot in place. It is suggested to consult with a podiatrist if you would like additional information about how flip-flops affect the feet.
Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
Flip-Flops and Feet
Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.
When Are They Okay to Wear?
Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.
Why Are They Bad for My Feet?
These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.
More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
When existing wounds are treated promptly and correctly, there is a difference between a quick recovery and a longer healing time. It is helpful to wash the surface of the wound with salt water, followed by wiping the area with sterile gauze. If bleeding is present, it is helpful to apply pressure to the affected area. This is often accomplished by covering the wound with a dry cloth, and exerting pressure on it for several minutes. Research has indicated it is beneficial to cover moist wounds with dressings, and this may accelerate the healing process. If you have wounds on your feet, it is suggested to be under the care of a podiatrist, who can guide you toward proper wound care.
Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Wound Care?
Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic.
What Is the Importance of Wound Care?
While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.
How to Care for Wounds
The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
If your middle toe is bent in a downward position, you may have a condition that is known as hammertoe. The shape of the toe may resemble a hammer, and wearing shoes may be uncomfortable. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this condition include corns or calluses that form on top of the toe and pain that is felt when the toe is straightened. Hammertoe may develop as a result of wearing shoes that do not have adequate room in the toe area, causing the toes to be in a cramped position for the majority of the day. Medical conditions such as arthritis or diabetes may be responsible for the formation of hammertoes, in addition to genetic factors. If you believe that you have a hammertoe, schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat this condition.
Hammertoe
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.
Symptoms
Causes
Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible
Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur
Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe
Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe
Treatment
Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it
Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used
Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option
If you have any questions please contact our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Many patients have dry, hardened skin on the heels of their feet. In severe cases, deep cracks may form. These deep cracks are known as fissures, and in the heels can also be referred to as cracked heels. This uncomfortable ailment may be caused by standing for extended periods of time throughout the day. Existing medical conditions, which can include eczema or dermatitis, may contribute to the development of cracked heels. Wearing shoes that have an open back may also contribute to development. Cracked heels can also be a result of the lack of support the fatty pad in the heel receives when the feet endure pressure from walking. Mild relief may be found when the feet are washed and dried thoroughly, followed by using an effective moisturizer. This may help the skin on the feet maintain flexibility. If you have developed cracked heels, consult with a podiatrist to learn about additional treatment options.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.
How Do You Get Them?
Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.
Promote Healing
Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.
Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.
Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.
Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin.
Change in Diet
Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.
Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
The function of the plantar fascia is to connect the heel to the calf muscles. If you are experiencing pain on the bottom of your foot, you may have a condition that is referred to as plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is the largest ligament in the body, and if this should become irritated and inflamed, the result may be plantar fasciitis. There are specific symptoms that are typically associated with this condition. These may include tenderness, stiffness, or pain and discomfort in the heel and surrounding areas. Common reasons why this ailment may occur may come from excessive strain the ligament may endure. This may happen as a result of frequent walking or running, or from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. When stretching exercises are performed daily, the pain may be minimized. If you are afflicted with plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose this condition, and begin correct treatment techniques.
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 one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors 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?
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
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 our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Research has indicated many patients may develop foot problems as a result of pregnancy. The feet endure the weight of the body, and many uncomfortable foot conditions can arise as the pregnancy weight increases. A pregnant woman may notice the absence of an arch in her feet, and the feet may appear to look flat. Additionally, the feet may roll inward, and this may cause pain and discomfort to the feet and lower extremities. Many women who are pregnant are aware of excess swelling in their feet, which is known as edema. Comfort may be found if the feet are elevated frequently during the day, in addition to drinking plenty of fresh water, and avoiding or limiting salt intake. If you would like additional information about how pregnancy can affect your feet, please consult with a podiatrist.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
There are several ways a broken toe may occur. These may include dropping a heavy object on the toe, stubbing it on a piece of furniture, or consistent impact that can cause a stress fracture. One of the first symptoms felt may be severe pain. Many people may also notice bruising and swelling around the affected toe and surrounding areas. A cast may be needed if the fracture is severe, and the toe may look deformed. After the injury occurs, it can be beneficial to elevate the foot, and this can be helpful in reducing any swelling that may be present. Some patients find that support and stability may be increased if the affected toe is taped to the toe next to it. As the healing process begins, it is important to rest the foot as often as possible. When the splint or tape is removed, the toe's range of motion can increase as stretching exercises are performed. If you have broken your toe, it is advised that you speak to a podiatrist who can recommend the correct 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 one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors 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
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 our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about What to Know About a Broken ToeThe condition that is referred to as cracked heels may often cause pain and discomfort. Another name for cracks that appear in the skin is known as fissures. This may be caused by the aging process, wearing shoes with an open back, or environmental factors. Patients who stand on hard floors for extended periods of time may experience cracked heels, and this may be a result of the pressure the heel endures. Additionally, people who are overweight may find they have cracked heels developing, which may be due to the extra weight that is placed on the heel. Medical conditions including psoriasis, eczema, or diabetes may contribute to the onset of this condition. Mild relief may be found by washing and drying the feet thoroughly, followed by utilizing a good moisturizer. If the cracks in the heel are severe, it is suggested to speak with a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment.
If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.
Ways to Help Heal Them
Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels
If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Genetic factors may cause the muscles and tendons in the toes to become weak, and this may cause a condition that is referred to as hammertoe. It will typically affect the second and third toes and occur when the middle joint becomes dislocated. Additional reasons for this to develop may come from having arthritis in the feet, or from wearing shoes that do not have enough room in the toe area. Cushioned pads may be used to reduce mild discomfort that may be present. For more severe cases of hammertoe, a proper diagnosis is needed to determine the extent of the deformity, and surgery may be necessary to permanently straighten the toes. If you have this condition, it is strongly suggested to seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can guide you toward beginning proper treatment.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Livingston Footcare. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.
Symptoms
Risk Factors
Treatment
If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Hammertoe
Arthritis comes in many forms and can cause those who have it to be uncomfortable or in pain. Thankfully, there are some ways to care for arthritic feet at home in order to relieve some troublesome symptoms. Ice packs can be used to reduce inflammation, which will help the joint feel better overall. Stiff-soled shoes, that have plenty of room for your toes, will also help alleviate some pain. Contrast baths can also be used to reduce symptoms. Contrast baths require two buckets or tubs of water, one warm and one cold. Alternating the affected foot from cold water to warm water every 30 seconds for 5 minutes can offer some relief. It is important to avoid freezing or boiling water, because these could cause further damage to the foot. If you think you may have arthritis, then it is strongly suggested that you speak with podiatrist to begin the proper treatment.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors 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
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
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 our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
While sports offer many benefits to those who participate in them, they can also put one at a higher risk for injury. Athletes are especially prone to foot and ankle injuries, because these two body parts are utilized in most sports. Luckily, there are ways to help prevent injuring your feet and ankles. Stretching before engaging in any physical activity will help warm up the muscles and lessen the chances of them becoming strained. Choosing shoes that properly fit you, as well as the specific sport you play, is also important. For example, the shoes worn during basketball and tennis are extremely different, so finding the right fit for your activity will help keep your feet healthy. Also, avoid running or stepping on uneven surfaces because this will increase your risk for sprains and breaks. If you would like additional information on how to keep your feet and ankles safe, speak with a podiatrist.
Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:
Symptoms
Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:
Diagnosis
To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.
Treatment
Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
The feet bear the weight of the body, and aches and pains in the feet may be reduced when an optimum weight is maintained. If weight gradually increases, there may be foot conditions that can develop,which may include inflammation of the tendons, plantar fasciitis, or certain types of arthritis. Additionally, the style of walking may be compromised as the body compensates for the extra weight, and this may lead to problems that may affect the arch. People who are overweight may benefit by checking their blood sugar daily, and this may help them to become aware of possible diabetic conditions which can affect the feet. If you are having foot pain and have difficulty in managing your weight, please consult with a podiatrist who can offer correct treatment options.
Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Obesity and Your Feet
Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.
Problems & Complications
Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.
Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.
Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
There are numerous bones that are located in the foot, in addition to several ligaments, tendons, and muscles. If an injury should occur, the ankle may endure damage which happens to the bones or tendons. If you unexpectedly step off a curb, you may have incurred an ankle sprain or fracture, and this is frequently accompanied by sudden pain and discomfort, including difficulty in walking. Ankle sprains may occur above or below the ankle, and may be common among athletes. Tendonitis is another type of ankle pain, and may occur if frequent running is pursued on uneven surfaces. An additional source of pain may originate from arthritis, and this may be the result of a loss of cartilage which may cause the bones to rub together. If you have any type of ankle pain, it is advised to seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly treat any discomfort you may have.
Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors 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:
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 our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
