The medical name for an ingrown toenail is referred to as onychocryptosis. It is a painful condition of the big toe, and it occurs as the sides of the nail grow into the surrounding skin. The symptoms that are associated with this ailment often consist of severe pain and swelling, in addition to becoming red and inflamed. There are several reasons why ingrown toenails may develop. These can include wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in, trimming the toenails incorrectly, or if an injury has occurred to the nail. Treatment techniques may consist of splinting the nail, as this may help to protect the skin surrounding the affected nail. Additionally, if the ingrown toenail becomes infected, surgery may be an option to consider. If you have developed this condition, it is advised to seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis and treat this ailment.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, 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.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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.

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A heel spur is a foot condition that is caused by a calcium deposit that extends between your heel bone and arch. They often start in the front of the heel and eventually begin to affect other parts of the foot. Heel spurs can be caused by repetitive stress from walking or running, bruising of the heel, poorly fitted and worn-out shoes, walking gait issues and arthritis. Symptoms can include pain, inflammation and swelling at the front of the heel. Symptoms only show up in about 50 percent of people with heel spurs. Because of this, the majority of heel spurs are discovered through X-rays and other tests done for foot ailments. In order to prevent heel spurs, it is important to be aware of your overall foot health and what your feet go through on a daily basis. You should get your foot checked out as soon as you feel pain, as well as ceasing any physical activity until the pain subsides. If you are experiencing foot or heel pain, it is advised that you see a podiatrist for their opinion.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Dr. Kenneth Donovan from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact one of our offices located in Warren, Livingston, and Toms River, NJ. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

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If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get 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!

If you notice a bony protrusion at the base of your big toe, you may have a bunion. A bunion is considered to be a bone deformity and may develop for specific reasons. These reasons can include certain genetic factors. The disorder causes the big toe to move toward the toe next to it, and the joint will gradually extend outward. There are additional reasons why bunions may form, which can include forms of arthritis, low arches, or foot injuries. The symptoms that are often associated with this condition are pain and discomfort on and near the affected area, swelling, numbness, and a burning sensation. Mild relief may be found when proper shoes are worn and when ceasing any activity that causes pain. If you have a bunion, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can treat this condition.

If you are suffering from bunions, 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.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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.

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The bones in babies feet are flexible as a result of being underdeveloped. This is how most babies are born, and they appear to be flat footed. As walking begins, the bones, muscles, and tendons will gradually become stronger, and the arch will typically develop. While toddlers are indoors, it is beneficial for them to walk barefoot. This is helpful in strengthening the foot as the toes grasp the floor. When it is time for shoes to be purchased, it is important that your child’s feet are measured correctly, as this generally ensures shoes that fit properly are worn. The shoes need to have adequate room for the toes to move freely in, and the soles should be constructed of a flat and flexible sole. If you would like additional information about how to buy children’s shoes, it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, 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.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider…

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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.

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Many people who enjoy running and hiking can experience unpleasant blisters forming on their feet. This is often a result of friction that happens from the shoes or socks rubbing against the skin. The first layer of skin will typically become damaged, and a small pocket of fluid will form over the raw area. This acts as a natural barrier for protection, and will gradually drain as the healing process occurs. A successful measure that can be implemented which can help to prevent painful blisters from developing can include wearing shoes and socks that fit correctly. This will help in making sure there is adequate room so the heel does not rub on the back of the shoe. If the blister should become injured and drain before the skin has healed, an infection may occur. If this occurs, it is important to cover the affected area with a bandage until the skin has completely healed. If you are frequently getting foot blisters, it is advised to speak to a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper shoe fitting.

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.

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