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February 2022

Tuesday, 22 February 2022 00:00

Causes and Treatment for Plantar Warts

It is not uncommon for anyone who spends a lot of time at the gym or pool to develop plantar warts, or verrucae, on the bottom of the feet or around the toes. This condition is caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV) – a highly transmissible virus that loves moist, warm environments, such as locker rooms, shower floors, and swimming pool changing areas. The warts usually appear as a cauliflower-shaped growth with small dots. While they are basically harmless, they spread easily. Therefore, it’s a good idea to get rid of them as soon as possible. Because of this, patients who have a painful plantar wart, especially if it won’t go away on its own, would be wise to visit a podiatrist for treatment. Among the many options are removal with acid-based treatments, which are stronger than over-the-counter ointments, cryotherapy (freezing them off with liquid nitrogen), and laser surgery for larger clusters. 

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Scott Shrem from Garden State Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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 All About Plantar Warts
Monday, 21 February 2022 00:00

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Tuesday, 15 February 2022 00:00

Eight Symptoms of Toe Arthritis

You may be familiar with aching joints in the hands and fingers, but have you ever heard of arthritis in the toes? This problem is surprisingly common, particularly among older people, who often have osteoarthritis, and people of all ages with rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis. The most common symptom of arthritis in the toes is toe pain, which can range from a deep ache to a sharp or stabbing sensation. As their cartilage lining is damaged and wears away, the joints can become stiff and difficult to move. Swelling is also a common symptom. While walking, the toe joints may make a clicking, popping, or grinding sound, like the sound of cracking your knuckles. The toes may also become deformed over time and feel warm or hot because of inflammation. When joint damage is extensive and severe, the joint can become locked in place. All these symptoms combined can make walking, or even standing, difficult. If you have arthritis in your feet, a podiatrist can help you manage the symptoms and maintain your mobility.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, 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.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

  • Swelling
  • Pain
  • Stiffness
  • Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

  • Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
  • Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
  • Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
  • Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
  • Age – Risk increases with age
  • Gender –Most types are more common in women
  • Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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.

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Tuesday, 08 February 2022 00:00

What Can Cause Achilles Tendinopathy?

The large tendon located at the back of the ankle, which connects the heel bone to the calf muscle, is known as the Achilles tendon. It is the largest tendon in the body, allows you to stand on tiptoe and bears a lot of stress. Activities such as running, jumping, or standing for a long period of time can cause the Achilles tendon to swell, stiffen and become painful. This condition is known as Achilles tendinopathy. Factors such as older age, being overweight, tightness in the calf muscles, poor limb alignment, and stiff joints in the foot can contribute to Achilles tendinopathy. Because of the severity of an Achilles injury, patients who are struggling with pain or tenderness in this tendon would be wise to visit a podiatrist for an evaluation.  

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, 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 the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

  • Inflammation
  • Dull to severe pain
  • Increased blood flow to the tendon
  • Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

  • Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
  • Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

  • Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
  • Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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

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Tuesday, 01 February 2022 00:00

Ankle Sprain Basics

An ankle sprain is an injury to one or more ligaments in the ankle. This typically occurs when the ankle is twisted awkwardly or the foot rolls onto its side. Ankle sprains frequently affect athletes, but can happen to anybody. The symptoms of an ankle sprain include pain, soreness, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the injured ankle. Treatment for your ankle sprain will depend on the type of sprain and on how severe it is. Resting the injured ankle is strongly suggested regardless of how severe the injury is. By keeping weight off of the ankle you are giving it time to heal. Full recovery is important to avoid recurrent sprains, chronic ankle instability, and pain. If you suspect that you’ve sprained your ankle, please seek the care of a podiatrist.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, 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.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Pain at the sight of the tear
  • Bruising/Swelling
  • Ankle area is tender to touch
  • In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
  • Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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 Ankle Sprains
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