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October 2022

Tuesday, 25 October 2022 00:00

A Bunion May Require Larger Shoes

A bunion is a bony lump that forms on the side of the big toe. Bunions can be caused by several things like genetics or from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. This condition may also develop from a toe injury that caused the bones to misalign. Eventually, a callus may form over the bunion as a result of the bunion constantly rubbing against the inside of the shoes that are worn. Some patients find it beneficial to wear a protective covering over the bunion and many will also purchase larger shoes to accommodate it. Massaging the affected area may aid in keeping the toe flexible and the surrounding tissue soft. An effective massage can be rolling the foot on a tennis ball and performing foot exercises may help to strengthen the muscles in the toes too. It is easier to find shoes that fit properly if they are tried on at the end of the day when the feet are at their largest. If you see the first signs of a small bump developing on the side of the big toe, please consult with a podiatrist who can determine if it is a bunion and what the right treatment is for you.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Dr. Scott Shrem of Garden State Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

  • Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
  • Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

  • Redness and inflammation
  • Pain and tenderness
  • Callus or corns on the bump
  • Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

Read more about Bunions
Wednesday, 19 October 2022 00:00

Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

Tuesday, 18 October 2022 00:00

How Bad Are Flip Flops for Your Feet?

Many people choose to wear flip-flops because of their simplicity to slide on and off as well as the various colors and styles they can be found in. Despite their ease, research has indicated they can be harmful to the feet if they are frequently worn. The feet can generally ache from wearing flip-flops too much, and this can be a result of the lack of support they are often designed with. Additionally, they can be worn on dirty floors and in public swimming areas, and bacteria can accumulate on these types of shoes. This can possibly lead to getting a skin infection which may become a serious staph infection. Blisters can form on the feet if flip-flops are worn daily, and this may be from how unsteady they fit on the feet. Plantar fasciitis may be an uncomfortable foot condition that can develop from little or no arch support, and may lead to severe heel pain. If you have questions about flip flops and what type of foot conditions they may cause, please consult with a podiatrist who can answer any concerns you may have.

Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Scott Shrem from Garden State Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor 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

  • They Slow You Down
  • May Cause Blisters and Calluses
  • Expose Your Feet to Bacteria

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

Read more about Flip Flops and Feet
Tuesday, 11 October 2022 00:00

Two Types of Flat Feet

Many people who have flat feet avoid walking and exercising, which can make the  body uncomfortable as a result of a flattened or little arch. The arch acts as a shock absorber, and with flat feet, the gait is different from people with normal arches. The majority of children are born with flat feet, but the arch generally develops in the teenage years. Wearing shoes that do not fit correctly may increase discomfort felt from flat feet, and custom-made orthotics are often prescribed to help the feet to absorb shock. There are various types of flat feet. Flexible flat feet are noticeable as the foot lies flat on the floor while standing, but the arch appears when sitting down. This foot condition may cause the feet to ache, and mild relief may be felt when specific stretches are frequently performed. In rigid flat feet, the arch is permanently flattened and cannot be seen while standing or sitting down. If you have flat feet of either type, please schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can guide you toward relief treatments. 

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Scott Shrem from Garden State Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

  • Pain around the heel or arch area
  • Trouble standing on the tip toe
  • Swelling around the inside of the ankle
  • Flat look to one or both feet
  • Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Read more about Flat Feet
Tuesday, 04 October 2022 00:00

High Heels Can Affect the Feet and Ankles

Research has shown that the shoes women wear, specifically high heels and sandals, are major contributors to heel and ankle pain. The best way to avoid a future of painful feet is to avoid these types of shoes early in life. Opting instead for sneakers or athletic footwear that provide the proper cushioning and support for the feet, heels and ankles is recommended. With every step you take, a significant amount of force is transmitted to the ankles, heels, and feet. Without the proper support or protection, these areas are put at risk for injury. Improper footwear can also contribute to toe problems, including bunions, calluses, corns, and hammertoes. Choosing comfort over style is suggested as a way to avoid painful problems later in life. Other recommendations are to wear shoes that conform to the shape of your foot, avoid shoes with pointed or tapered toes, and buy shoes that fit well – regardless of the size on the box. For more information on the risks of wearing high heels, or for help with any painful foot and ankle conditions you may have, please visit a podiatrist. 

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Scott Shrem from Garden State Foot & Ankle Center. 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 Hazlet, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Why High Heels Are Not Ideal for Healthy Feet
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