Items filtered by date: April 2024

Pinched nerves in the feet, beyond tarsal tunnel syndrome, stem from diverse conditions, necessitating accurate diagnosis for effective treatment. Both Morton's neuroma, characterized by nerve thickening between toes, and hammertoes, involving abnormal toe bending, can compress nerves. Additionally, bunion formation at the big toe base can crowd and irritate nearby nerves. Nerve entrapment, resulting from injury or structural abnormalities, and peripheral neuropathy, often associated with diabetes, also contribute to nerve compression. Symptoms may encompass tingling, numbness, or burning sensations, affecting mobility and comfort. Precise diagnosis by a podiatrist is important for targeted intervention. Treatment may involve a combination of conservative measures, such as rest, and orthotic devices. In some cases, corticosteroid injections or surgical procedures may be necessary for relief. If you have the symptoms described above, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Mark Poplawski, DPM from Jersey Shore Podiatry, LLC. 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 Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Poor foot circulation, often linked with conditions like peripheral artery disease or diabetes, presents diverse symptoms such as numbness, tingling, weakness, coldness, or cramping in the feet and legs. This condition is more common as one ages. Restricted blood flow deprives tissues of oxygen and nutrients, causing discomfort and potentially severe issues like non-healing wounds or ulcers. The causes typically involve arterial narrowing or blockage due to factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, cholesterol, or diabetes. Lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, managing health conditions, staying active, and a healthy diet can aid in circulation improvement. If you have poor foot circulation and it is persistent or worsening, it is suggested that you seek prompt evaluation by a podiatrist. This type of doctor employs various diagnostic tests to assess circulation and devises personalized treatment strategies that can address underlying conditions and relieve symptoms.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Mark Poplawski, DPM of Jersey Shore Podiatry, LLC. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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.

High heels can have a detrimental effect on your feet, extending beyond mere discomfort. The forward weight shift caused by any heel height can lead to various issues, including hip, back, and knee pain. The pressure exerted on the toes can result in conditions such as bunions and ingrown toenails, while tendinitis may develop over time, especially as one ages. Switching to flats as one ages may not offer relief either. This shift can cause its own set of problems since tendons tighten from high heel wear. Additionally, one can suffer from Morton’s neuroma, and the fat pad beneath the feet tends to thin out with age, leading to metatarsalgia. Moreover, the unstable nature of high heels increases the risk of twisting an ankle. If you wear high heels and either want to continue to do so, or you have sustained foot problems as a result of wearing them, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. This type of doctor can offer you treatment options and guide you in choosing alternative shoes that can improve foot health.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Mark Poplawski, DPM from Jersey Shore Podiatry, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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.

A broken pinky toe, while seemingly minor, can cause significant discomfort and affect daily routines. Typically occurring from direct trauma such as stubbing against furniture or dropping a heavy object on the foot, a broken pinky toe can cause intense pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. However, conditions like stress fractures, sprains, or dislocations can mimic similar symptoms, complicating self-diagnosis. Stress fractures result from repetitive stress on the toe, sprains involve stretching or tearing of ligaments, and dislocations occur when the bones are displaced from their normal position. Seeking a podiatrist's expertise is suggested for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Podiatrists employ various diagnostic tools, such as physical examination, X-rays, or MRI scans, to identify the specific issue.For a proper diagnosis, appropriate treatment plan, ranging from rest and immobilization to surgery, if necessary, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Mark Poplawski, DPM of Jersey Shore Podiatry, LLC. Our doctor 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 office located in Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, and potential infection. Causes include improper nail trimming, tight footwear, injury, or genetic predisposition. To prevent ingrown toenails, it is important to cut nails straight across and avoid rounding the edges. Wearing properly fitted shoes that allow for ample toe room can also reduce the risk. Allowing toenails to breathe by wearing open-toed shoes occasionally promotes healthy nail growth and reduces pressure on the toes. If you have an ingrown toenail and the pain worsens or it appears infected, it is suggested that you seek prompt treatment from a podiatrist. This foot doctor can provide professional care, such as lifting the nail edge, prescribing antibiotics for infection, or performing a partial nail avulsion procedure if necessary. 

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Mark Poplawski, DPM of Jersey Shore Podiatry, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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.