One of the most common causes of heel pain is a condition known as plantar fasciitis. This condition is caused by the straining of the ligament that runs between the toes and the heel. The straining of this ligament can produce sharp and shooting pains in the bottom of the feet that are most prominent when taking your first step after a prolonged period of rest. Many individuals are at a higher risk of suffering from plantar fasciitis. Namely, women who often wear high-heeled shoes are more prone to experiencing plantar fasciitis because of the extra strain that such footwear causes on the heel. However, it may come as a surprise to some that truck drivers are also at a greater risk of experiencing this condition. This can be explained by the fact that truck drivers spend most of their day sitting while driving, but often must suddenly and sporadically engage in physical activity during rest stops before they can properly stretch and re-engage ligaments in their feet. Truck drivers may be able to stave off the effects of plantar fasciitis by regularly stretching foot ligaments and muscles, especially before beginning to walk after a long drive. Truck drivers may also consider opting for more supportive footwear or wearing a heel cup for extra protection. Although some occupations may put individuals at a greater risk of developing plantar fasciitis, a podiatrist may be able to help create a plan to remedy and prevent this condition.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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.

The importance of knowing your correct shoe size before making a purchase is crucial for the health of your feet. The majority of shoe stores have an object known as the Brannock device, which can accurately measure your shoe size. Additionally, if you choose to measure your feet at home there is a simple procedure that can accomplish this. It is important to wear the socks that would normally be worn with the shoes, followed by taping a piece of paper to the floor directly under a wall. After stepping on the paper, trace the outline of your foot. The next step is to measure the length of the foot and this will tell you your shoe size. It is suggested to try on both shoes at the end of the day when the feet are at their largest. A comfortable fit is crucial from the beginning and research has shown that shoes should not have to be broken in. There are also different types of footwear for various sports. If you would like more information about what type of shoes to buy, please confer with a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Dr. Kenneth Donovan from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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.

Most children are born with flat feet and the arch will eventually develop. Several foot conditions may affect children in addition to having flat feet. Some children are born with bow legs, which is often noticeable as the leg below the knee bends outward. Research has indicated it often corrects itself as the growing process occurs. Pigeon toes, which are also known as in-toeing, are prevalent among babies and will begin to diminish as standing and walking begin. The opposite condition called out-toeing can be a common ailment and will correct itself as the child grows older. Many children walk on their toes as they learn how to walk and the body will eventually outgrow this too. Children between the ages of three and six may experience knock knees but treatment is rarely needed. If you notice that your child is experiencing any of these conditions, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide the treatment that is needed.

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.

The noticeable symptom with a foot condition that is known as hammertoe affects the second toe. It is considered to be a deformity, and a muscle imbalance causing the toe to bend downward. Additionally, corns can form on top of the bone that is bent. This can be a result of the pressure that is endured as the top of the toes rub against shoes. Hammertoe can happen from genetic reasons, or possibly from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. Some patients have high arches, and this can contribute to developing hammertoe. If the condition is severe, surgery may be necessary in helping to permanently straighten the toes. It is considered to be an unsightly foot condition, and it may be difficult to walk. If you have a hammertoe, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Kenneth Donovan from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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.

The pain from a foot condition that is known as Morton’s neuroma is generally found in the ball of the foot. A neuroma is another name for a pinched nerve or nerve tumor. It is often benign, and can grow and spread to other nerves in the foot. It is an ailment that affects the nerves between the third and fourth toes, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. Many patients describe the pain as feeling like a pebble or marble under the foot, and possibly cause difficulty in completing daily activities. Common reasons for this condition to develop can include frequently wearing high heels, and participating in running and jumping activities that can compress the feet in shoes. Additionally, medical conditions consisting of bunions and hammertoes may lead to getting Morton’s neuroma. A proper diagnosis consists of having a CT scan taken, or possibly an MRI. Many people have found mild relief when specific foot stretches are performed, and it can be beneficial to wear shoes that fit correctly. These types of shoes will have adequate room for the toes to move freely in, and this can help to achieve full range of motion and flexibility. Morton’s neuroma can be painful, and can hinder the ability to complete daily tasks. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested you consult with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Kenneth Donovan of Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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.

Warmer weather means that your feet will be more exposed to the elements. Practicing a little daily care will help keep your feet healthy and beautiful all year round. Keeping your feet moisturized is important in any season. To avoid your exposed heels from drying out and cracking, apply a topical emollient or occlusive moisturizer at night and cover your feet with socks to lock in moisture. Keeping your toenails groomed properly will not only help you avoid ingrown toenails, but will help make them look great in sandals as well. Trim your toenails flush with the tip of your toe and straight across. After a shower, when your cuticles are naturally softer, you can gently press them back with your finger wrapped in the edge of a towel for a professionally groomed look. Regardless of the season, the best foot care tip is to wear comfortable shoes that fit properly to avoid blisters, corns and calluses, in addition to other foot conditions. It is suggested you consult with a podiatrist for additional foot care tips, or before embarking on any foot care regimen if you have diabetes, nerve damage or poor circulation.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, 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.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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.

A blister is a fluid-filled bubble that forms on the skin.  Most often these blisters are caused by one toe repeatedly rubbing against another toe or the lining of a shoe and irritating the skin. These are referred to as friction or pinch blisters and can typically be treated at home. Wearing shoes that fit properly, keeping feet clean and dry, and not walking barefoot in warm, humid areas can help prevent friction blisters from forming.  It is important not to pop or pick at a blister as it can become infected, but if it has broken, toes should be soaked in clean, warm water and Epsom salts. If you are unsure which type of blister has formed, you suspect an infection, or if the friction blister is not healing within a reasonable time, it is suggested you consult with a podiatrist to have it evaluated, treated, and to learn how the formation of your blisters can be prevented.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. 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 are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can 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.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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.

Women are more prone to developing bunions than men. This may be a result of wearing high heels or shoes that do not have adequate room in the toe area. A bunion appears as a bony lump on the side of the big toe and is considered to be a foot deformity. This protrusion causes the bone in the big toe to gradually move toward the other toes and can produce pain and discomfort. People who develop bunions may eventually get osteoarthritis in the big toe, which can be the source of chronic pain. Additionally, the risk of getting a bunion may increase in patients who have short calf muscles or a shortened Achilles tendon, and medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and flat feet. Bunions may be prevented by wearing shoes that are comfortable and flat. It may help to frequently walk barefoot, which may be beneficial in strengthening the muscles in the overall foot. If you have developed a bunion, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can provide you with correct treatment options, which may include surgery for permanent removal. 

If you are suffering from bunion pain, 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?

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 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.