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When the Big Toe Becomes Stiff and Painful

Hallux rigidus is a form of arthritis that affects the joint at the base of the big toe, making it difficult to bend or push off while walking. Over time, the joint loses flexibility as cartilage wears down, leading to stiffness, swelling, and aching pain, especially during motion. Some people notice a bump forming on top of the toe joint, which can make wearing certain shoes uncomfortable. Because this joint plays a key role in balance and forward movement, even small limitations can affect overall mobility. Early treatment focuses on reducing joint stress with supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and anti-inflammatory care. In more advanced cases, surgery may help to restore comfort and function. If your big toe feels stiff or sore when walking, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment options.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, 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 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 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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Treating Non-Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Foot ulcers are open sores that develop when the skin and underlying tissue break down, often due to poor circulation, pressure, or injury. While many people associate ulcers with diabetes, non-diabetic foot ulcers can also occur from trauma, vascular disease, or prolonged pressure on certain areas of the foot. These wounds may start small but can quickly worsen, if left untreated. A podiatrist can determine the cause, clean and dress the ulcer, and recommend treatments that promote faster healing and prevent infection. Custom orthotics or footwear modifications may also be advised to relieve pressure and protect the affected area. Proper wound care and consistent follow-up are key to recovery. If you have a sore on your foot that becomes painful or does not heal, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Dr. Kenneth Donovan from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please 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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Plantar Warts Can Be 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!

All You Need to Know About Poor Circulation

Common symptoms that are linked to poor circulation can include cold feet, tingling or burning sensations, and swollen feet. There are several reasons why this condition may develop. These can include plaque buildup in the arteries, diabetes, or if there is an existing blood clot. Additionally, patients who smoke, stand for extended periods of time throughout the day, or who are obese may be at risk of developing poor circulation. A diagnosis may consist of testing the blood for elevated glucose levels which may indicate diabetes, as well as performing an ultrasound that can examine your blood vessels. Patients may find moderate relief when compression stockings are worn, which may help to provide a comfortable level of support. If you are suffering from poor circulation, it is advised that you speak to a podiatrist who can offer you proper treatment techniques.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Kenneth Donovan of Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

  • Numbness
  • Tingling
  • Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
  • Pain
  • Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

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 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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Foot Stress Fractures and Their Causes

A foot stress fracture is a small crack in the bone that develops from repetitive force or overuse rather than a single injury. It often occurs in athletes, runners, or individuals who suddenly increase their activity level. Causes include wearing improper footwear, having weak bones, or training on uneven surfaces. Osteoporosis and poor nutrition can also increase the likelihood of developing stress fractures. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, and tenderness that worsen with activity. A podiatrist can diagnose the fracture through imaging and recommend rest, wearing supportive footwear, or custom orthotics to promote healing. If you have persistent foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, restoring mobility.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Dr. Kenneth Donovan from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

  • Runners                                
  • People affected with Osteoporosis
  • Tennis or basketball players
  • Gymnasts
  • High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please 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 Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

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