Items filtered by date: April 2020

Monday, 27 April 2020 00:00

Feet May Change Shape During Pregnancy

The growing fetus and hormonal changes are among the top reasons many pregnant women notice their feet becoming tired and swollen. The weight that is gained may cause the foot structure to change, and larger shoes may have to be purchased to accommodate this change. The arch in the feet can become flat, which may occur as a result of relaxed ligaments. It may become difficult to trim the toenails in advanced pregnancy, and it is suggested that a family member help you to maintain daily foot care. There are some pregnant women who notice warts on the bottom of the feet. These are referred to as verruca, and may cause pain and discomfort. It is considered to be a contagious virus, and medical advice may be needed from a podiatrist who can help you to treat this condition.

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 Dr. Ronald Sheppard from Warren-Watchung Podiatry Center. 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 one of our offices located in Marlboro and Watchung, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Monday, 20 April 2020 00:00

Relieving Blister Pain

Blisters may form on your feet as your body’s defense against an injury that has occurred, such as excessive friction on the skin. Blisters normally appear as small, fluid-filled sacs on the surface of the skin. They can cause a great deal of discomfort when frequently touched or rubbed against by shoes that are worn. Blisters can develop due to ill-fitting footwear that are usually too tight. To help relieve the pain a blister can bring and reduce swelling, it’s suggested that the affected area is iced, rested, and elevated. Blisters typically drain on their own as the healing process occurs. For more information on how to best treat a blister, it’s suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Ronald Sheppard of Warren-Watchung Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Marlboro and Watchung, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Monday, 13 April 2020 00:00

Heel Pain May Indicate Plantar Fasciitis

There is a large portion of tissue that expands lengthwise along the sole of the foot. This is referred to as the plantar fascia, and its purpose is to connect the heel to the toes. It may gradually become torn or damaged as a result of wearing shoes that do fit correctly. If this occurs, a condition known as plantar fasciitis may develop. Additionally, it may happen from standing on hard surfaces for the majority of the day, or possibly from a sudden injury. There are patients who are born with flat feet or high arches, and the uneven weight distribution may lead to plantar fasciitis. Mild relief may come from elevating the feet frequently during the day, and it generally helps to wear shoes that fit correctly. If your day is affected by pain in your heel, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist.

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 Dr. Ronald Sheppard from Warren-Watchung Podiatry Center. Our doctor 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?

  • Excessive running
  • Having high arches in your feet
  • Other foot issues such as flat feet
  • Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
  • Being on your feet very often

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

  • Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

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 one of our offices located in Marlboro and Watchung, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

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People who frequently participate in cardiovascular exercises will often notice how a broken toe can affect their workout routine. After an injury happens that involves the toe, it is generally difficult to put any type of pressure on the toe. Some patients find mild relief when the toe is taped to the toe next to it, this is referred to as buddy taping. This method can be useful in providing support throughout the healing process. Additionally, it is beneficial to avoid specific types of cardiovascular exercises. These typically include running, jumping, and any activity where the toe is used. Effective types of exercises that exclude using the toe can consist of swimming, bicycling, and the rowing machine. If you would like more information about how broken toes can affect cardiovascular exercises, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist.

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 Dr. Ronald Sheppard from Warren-Watchung Podiatry Center. Our doctor 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

  • Swelling
  • Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
  • Stiffness
  • Nail Injury

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 one of our offices located in Marlboro and Watchung, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about What to Know About a Broken Toe
Thursday, 02 April 2020 00:00

Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!

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