Items filtered by date: April 2023

Ankle pain hurts and can negatively impact daily activities. There are various reasons one might have ankle pain, and having surgery performed may be an option for permanent relief. Ankle fusion surgery is described as a procedure that combines the bones of the ankle by using screws, plates, or possibly bone grafts. This is primarily done to reduce ankle arthritis, and is generally chosen as a last resort option. It may also be done to treat abnormal ankle structure, infections, or a failed ankle replacement. The benefits that may be gained by having this type of surgery performed can include improved foot stability, permanent pain relief, and it may be easier to complete daily activities. Additionally, the overall quality of life may be improved, and possible disability may be reduced. If you have ankle arthritis, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine if ankle fusion surgery is best for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Toms River Podiatrist . Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot pain for various reasons can be common among the senior population. Some of these can include a loss of padding in the heel area as the aging process happens or from existing medical conditions. Diabetes, poor circulation, and arthritis can be common conditions among people in this age bracket, and this may lead to developing foot problems. Practising a good foot care routine is beneficial which may help prevent unwanted foot conditions. This can begin with washing and drying the feet daily, then inspecting the soles using a mirror. This is helpful in noticing any existing cuts, bruises, and scrapes. Additionally, trimming the toenails weekly may help to avoid an ingrown toenail from occurring. If you would like more information about elderly foot care, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can address any questions you may have.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Toms River Podiatrist . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Experiencing heel pain while walking is a common complaint. The three most common causes of heel pain are plantar fasciitis, bursitis, and Achilles tendonitis. Plantar fasciitis is when the plantar fascia, the band of connective tissue running on the sole from the heels to the toes, becomes inflamed or sustains micro tears. This band supports the arch of the foot and absorbs shock when running, jumping, and walking. Bursitis is the swelling and inflammation of the bursa, which are fluid-filled sacs that cushion the heel bone. Achilles tendonitis involves irritation and inflammation of the tendon that runs from the calf muscle to the heel bone. All three conditions may result from overuse or wearing shoes that do not fit properly. For these and other causes of heel pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Toms River Podiatrist . 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 office located in Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Pickleball is a cross between tennis, badminton, and ping-pong in that it consists of players moving across a court and hitting a ball over a net. Such movement has overall health benefits, specifically for the feet. Pickleball is a low-impact aerobic exercise and competitors are at less risk for blood clots, especially those who are overweight. Pickleball is also a weight-bearing activity in that the movement necessary to play the game requires the feet to support the body. It can help strengthen muscles in the ankles and legs. Additionally, pickleball can help improve circulation because a higher heart rate causes blood to circulate throughout the body faster. Like any sport, there is a risk of injury while playing pickleball. However, it is a relatively slow game, and the court is smaller so there is less risk of injury from lunging after the ball. The muscle strengthening benefits can help keep the joints flexible, which also helps in reducing injury while playing the game and outside of the game. If you are considering playing pickleball, or if you have sustained an injury to your feet and ankles in this sport, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist for suggestions or treatment.

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 one of our podiatrists from Toms River Podiatrist . Our doctors 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 Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.