Tuesday, 07 May 2024 00:00

Blisters between the toes can be a real pain, whether they're caused by friction, insect bites, burns, or infections. These little pockets of fluid can make each step a challenge. Friction is often the main cause of blisters between the toes. When your toes rub against each other or your shoes, the skin becomes irritated and leads to blister formation. Other causes of blisters between the toes include insect bites, burns, and various infections. While most blisters will heal on their own within a week or two, it's essential to resist the urge to pop them. Breaking a blister can increase the risk of infection and prolong the healing process. Instead, keep the blister clean and covered with a bandage. If the blister is particularly painful or shows signs of infection, it's best to seek medical attention from a podiatrist. Preventing blisters between the toes starts with wearing properly fitting shoes and socks. Avoid walking long distances in new shoes, and be sure to change socks if they become damp. If you have persistent or severe blisters between the toes, it is suggested that you seek help from a podiatrist for relief. 

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Kenneth Donovan of Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. 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 Warren, Livingston, and Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Blisters
Tuesday, 30 April 2024 00:00

Ankle sprains are injuries that occur when the ligaments that support the ankle stretch beyond their limits or tear. These injuries are often caused by twisting the ankle during physical activities, such as sports or even walking on uneven surfaces. Treatment for ankle sprains ranges from conservative to more intensive approaches, depending on the severity of the sprain. Initial treatment for mild sprains typically includes rest and elevation to reduce swelling and pain.  More severe sprains may require immobilization with a brace or cast to allow the ligaments to heal properly. Certain stretches may be recommended to restore ankle strength, flexibility, and balance, and prevent future sprains. In cases where the ligament damage is extensive and stability is compromised, surgical intervention may be considered to repair the ligaments. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to get the right treatment. 

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Dr. Kenneth Donovan from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Warren, Livingston, and Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Three Grades of Ankle Sprains
Tuesday, 23 April 2024 00:00

Corns on the feet are small, yet bothersome, skin formations that can cause significant pain if left untreated. Foot corns, which are composed of layers of dead skin cells, typically appear as thick, circular, raised areas of skin. They commonly develop on, near, or between the toes, below the toenail bed, or on the sole of the feet. The three primary types of foot corns are hard corns, soft corns, and seed corns. Regardless of their type, foot corns can cause discomfort, pain, and a burning sensation, particularly when wearing shoes or walking barefoot. Foot corns develop from excessive pressure or friction on the foot. Causes include wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, prolonged standing, and walking or running barefoot. It's a good idea to address foot corns promptly and effectively to prevent complications. A podiatrist can offer personalized treatment options, including professional corn removal techniques and recommendations for footwear modifications. If you are experiencing the discomfort of corns on the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to determine the type of corn and its proper treatment.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Kenneth Donovan of Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

  • Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
  • Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
  • Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Read more about Corns and Calluses
Wednesday, 17 April 2024 00:00

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.

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