Taking a Closer Look at Corns
Corns are hardened, thickened areas of skin on your feet that develop due to friction or pressure from footwear. They are typically small and round-shaped, getting their name from their similarity to a kernel of corn. Corns come in two varieties: hard and soft. Hard corns usually form on the tops of the toes and are dry and dense, while soft corns are found between the toes and have a more rubbery texture. Corns of any kind may cause pain or discomfort if there is pressure placed on them. Corns are particularly problematic, possibly leading to complications in people with diabetes or other conditions that affect blood flow to the feet. If you have developed a corn that is painful or chronic, or if you are a diabetic, please seek the professional care of a podiatrist.
If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Donald Manger, DPM of Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:
- Well-fitting socks
- Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
- Shoes that offer support
Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
What Are Toe Stretchers?
Toe stretchers are a type of orthotic that may relieve toe pain. Conventional toe stretchers are usually made of gel, plastic, or silicone and slide between your toes, spreading them apart and positioning them away from the balls of the feet. They are worn while sitting or lying down and stretch the toe muscles and ligaments, increasing their flexibility, relieving pain, and preventing injuries. Toe stretcher socks are simply socks that separate the toes. They do not provide as much of a stretch as conventional toe stretchers, but still separate the toes and are warm and comfortable. Toe stretchers are used to treat a variety of conditions, including plantar fasciitis, hammertoes, bunions, corns, calluses, and Morton’s neuroma, among others. To see if toe stretchers are right for you, please consult with a podiatrist.
If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Donald Manger, DPM from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. 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 our office located in Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?
If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!
What Is Causing My Ankle Pain?
The ankle joint is designed to support the whole body through a complex network of bones, muscles, cartilage, ligaments and tendons. Injury or disease to any one of these parts can be debilitating. One of the most common forms of ankle pain is from an ankle sprain. Ankle sprains often occur from stepping on an uneven surface or from a sporting accident that causes the ligaments connecting the bones to become partially or completely torn. Tendonitis is another common cause of ankle pain. Tendonitis occurs when the tendons, which connect the muscles to the bones, become inflamed. Arthritis, which occurs when joints become inflamed, can also lead to ankle pain. There are a variety of other sources of ankle pain, and patients who notice pain in their ankle should consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Donald Manger, DPM from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor 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:
- Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
- Ankle sprains
- Broken ankles
- Achilles tendinitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
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 Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Common Sports Injuries and How to Avoid Them
Sports related injuries are generally broken down into direct impact injuries, overuse injuries, and injuries that apply more force to an area of the body than it can structurally support. Some of the most common sports injuries involve joint damage, ankle sprains and strains, stress fractures, and cuts and bruises. You can reduce your risk of injury while playing sports by wearing proper footwear and protective gear, warming up and cooling down sufficiently, using proper form, cross-training to strengthen muscles and stay in shape, and building up the intensity and duration of workouts gradually. It is important to seek proper care for a sports injury, and to take a break from your sport to allow the injury to heal properly. If you have suffered a sports injury involving your feet, ankles, or lower legs, it is suggested that you have a podiatrist examine you as soon as possible.
Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Donald Manger, DPM from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Common Injuries
The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:
- Achilles Tendonitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
- Broken Foot
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Stress Fractures
- Turf Toe
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.
Treatment
Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Does Hammertoe Surgery Hurt?
If you have hammertoes, you may be weighing your treatment options. Advanced cases of hammertoe, in which the bent toe joints are permanently fixed in a painful, flexed position, are often treated surgically. Hammertoe surgery is used to straighten the deformed toes and relieve painful symptoms. These surgeries are typically outpatient procedures, meaning that you get to go home the same day as the operation. The surgery will be done under local anesthesia, so you will not feel pain during the actual operation. Following surgery, you may experience some pain and swelling. Your doctor will likely prescribe medications to manage pain and prevent infection. You will also probably need to wear a special shoe or boot to keep the foot in the proper position as it heals. Full recovery from a hammertoe surgery may take 4 to 6 weeks. To learn more about hammertoe surgery, please consult with a podiatrist.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Donald Manger, DPM of Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor 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
- Painful and/or difficult toe movement
- Swelling
- Joint stiffness
- Calluses/Corns
- Physical deformity
Risk Factors
- Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
- Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
- Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
- Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe
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 Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Outside Foot Pain
There are many patients who suffer from outside foot pain. This can be a result of an injury that occurs to the Peroneus Brevis tendon, which is located on the edge of the foot, and connects to the fifth metatarsal bone. The pain from this injury is felt on the outside of the ball of the foot, and can make it difficult to walk. Additional symptoms can include swelling and bruising, and it may be more prominent when the sole of the foot is turned outward. There is another foot condition that is referred to as cuboid syndrome that can happen when excess pressure is put on the cuboid bone. Additionally, outside pain in the foot can be caused by sinus tarsi syndrome which can be a result of a sprained ankle. If you are experiencing pain in any part of your foot, please consult with a podiatrist who can effectively treat foot pain.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Donald Manger, DPM from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Bunions
- Hammertoes
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Bone Spurs
- Corns
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Ingrown Toenails
- Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
- Flat Feet
- Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
- And more
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?
Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.
Tips to Prevent Falls for Adults Over 65
Roughly 1 in 4 older adults fall annually, which is why it is important for people over 65 to practice various safety measures to reduce risks of falling. Exercises can be done to strengthen muscles and improve balance. Pharmaceuticals should be reviewed to eliminate any medicine that causes drowsiness or dizziness. Vision should be checked annually to update eyewear as prescriptions change. Homes should be made as fall-proof as possible by installing grab bars near toilets and in showers and railings on both sides of stairs. Clutter should be eliminated from walkways, bright lighting should be installed, and small rugs should be eliminated or taped down to avoid slippage. A trip to the podiatrist is also recommended for a thorough examination to ensure that feet and ankles are healthy. A gait analysis may also be performed to see if custom orthotics may help improve balance and mobility.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Donald Manger, DPM from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
- Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
- Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
- Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
- Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
- Utilizing a walker or cane
- Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
- Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
How Are Feet Affected by Pregnancy?
The excessive weight gain and hormonal surges women experience during pregnancy can cause swollen feet and ankles, pain in the heel, arch, and balls of the feet, as well as cramping, and varicose veins in the legs. Pregnant women can also be more prone to rolling their feet inwardly while walking (over-pronating), and their feet usually lengthen and flatten out. Their balance can also be affected throughout pregnancy. If you are pregnant and notice any of these symptoms within your feet, consulting with a podiatrist is suggested. A podiatrist can help ease these symptoms during pregnancy with practical tips, foot exercises, shoe recommendations, as well as custom orthotics to disburse weight more evenly across the foot, relieve pressure points, and correct alignment.
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 Donald Manger, DPM from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor 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?
- Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
- Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
- Wear shoes with good arch support
- Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
- Elevate feet if you experience swelling
- Massage your feet
- Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Can Sever’s Disease Affect Both Feet?
Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is an overuse injury of the growth plate in the heel bone. This condition typically affects children between the ages of 8 and 14 who participate in sports or running and jumping activities. It is thought to be caused by the Achilles tendon pulling repetitively on the heel’s growth plate, creating tiny injuries that can become inflamed and painful. Sever's disease can affect either one foot or both feet at the same time. It affects both feet in about sixty percent of cases. This condition is typically treated with rest, footwear and activity modifications, and over the counter anti-inflammatory medications. If your child complains of heel pain, it is suggested that you take them to see a podiatrist right away.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Donald Manger, DPM from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
What You Should Know About Morton’s Neuroma
Morton’s neuroma is a foot condition in which a nerve in the ball of the foot becomes inflamed. This usually happens to the nerve located between the third and fourth toes. Symptoms of this condition include pain, an achy or burning sensation, numbness, tingling, or prickling that spreads to the toes, and the strange sensation that you're walking on a pebble. It is thought that wearing tight shoes with high heels or pointed toes and repeated trauma to the ball of the foot can increase your risk of developing Morton’s neuroma. The goal of treatment for this condition is to reduce pressure, pain, and swelling, which is often done through footwear and activity modifications, resting and icing the affected foot, and taking anti-inflammatory medications. If you are experiencing the symptoms of Morton’s neuroma, please consult with a podiatrist.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Donald Manger, DPM of Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.
What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?
- Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
- Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
- Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities
Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Did I Break My Ankle?
Broken ankles occur when any one of the bones in the ankle joint either fracture. The bones in the ankle joint include the tibia (shin bone), the fibula (back of the ankle), and the talus (the small bone between the heel bone and the tibia and fibula). Signs of a broken ankle include swelling, pain, bruising, tenderness, inability to bear weight, and an inability to walk on the affected leg. It can be difficult to tell the difference between a sprained ankle and a broken ankle. Sprains occur when the ligaments connecting the bone are torn. Patients who have injured their ankle and believe that it is sprained or fractured should consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis. A podiatrist can use a variety of methods that include physical examination, an X-ray, or even a CT or MRI scan to determine the cause of your ankle pain.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Donald Manger, DPM from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
- Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
- Swelling around the area
- Bruising of the area
- Area appears to be deformed
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?
Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.
