For runners, ankle sprains can be a frustrating setback, but understanding the nature of the injury is key to effective recovery. Ankle sprains are classified into three grades, with grades 1 and 2 involving varying degrees of ligament overstretching or partial tearing, while grade 3 signifies a complete tear. The most common type is the lateral or inversion sprain, occurring when the foot rolls outward, injuring the outer ligament that connects the ankle bone to the calf bone. In contrast, the rarer medial ligament sprain happens when the foot rolls inward, affecting ligaments on the inner side of the ankle. Runners may also face the challenge of high ankle sprains, which occur above the ankle in the lower leg. This type of sprain results from a downward pointing and twisting motion. This causes a stretch of the syndesmotic ligaments that connect the tibia and fibula in the lower leg to the top of the foot. It is essential that runners do not ignore such injuries, as failing to heal from an ankle sprain completely can cause chronic weak ankles. For an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible after being injured. 

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, 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.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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.

Turf toe and gout, although both affecting the feet, originate from distinct causes and exhibit different symptoms. Turf toe, often associated with athletes and individuals engaging in activities that involve repetitive pushing off the toe, is essentially a sprain of the ligaments surrounding the big toe joint. It manifests as pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. Conversely, gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis resulting from the crystallization of uric acid in the joints, frequently the big toe. Gout attacks bring intense pain, swelling, and redness. While turf toe stems from mechanical stress, gout is closely linked to diet and metabolic factors. Understanding these disparities is pivotal for accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment. If you have toe pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat turf toe and gout.

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 feel free to contact one of our offices located in Warren, Livingston, and Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Gout, a form of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, often the big toe, requires careful attention to dietary choices to manage symptoms effectively. A key principle is moderating the intake of purine rich foods, as purines contribute to elevated uric acid levels. Reducing the consumption of organ meats, seafood, and certain legumes can help mitigate the risk of gout attacks. Adequate hydration is essential, as it supports the elimination of uric acid through urine. Incorporating low fat dairy products, which have been associated with a lower risk of gout, can be beneficial. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight is vital, as excess weight can contribute to higher uric acid levels. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are encouraged, as they provide essential nutrients without significantly impacting uric acid levels. If you have developed gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, and guide you toward healthy food choices.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Kenneth Donovan from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment 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 care needs.

Runners, whether seasoned athletes or casual enthusiasts, face potential risks of three main types of foot and ankle injuries. Among these common ailments are Achilles tendonitis, heel bursitis and sprained ankles. Achilles tendonitis often results from overtraining or tight calf muscles. The Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, can become inflamed, which limits the ankle's range of motion. Heel, or retrocalcaneal bursitis, is often mistaken for Achilles tendonitis because it also causes pain, tenderness, and swelling at the back of the heel. In fact, it is the result of inflammation of the fluid-filled sac between the heel bone and the Achilles tendon, and can result from excessive walking, jumping, or running, especially uphill. Runners must also be cautious of traumatic incidents like ankle sprains. Unlike overuse injuries, ankle sprains occur suddenly and involve the stretching or tearing of ligaments connecting ankle bones. The immediate pain and swelling, coupled with difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot, distinguish an ankle sprain from other injuries. If symptoms from any of these injuries persist or worsen, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Kenneth Donovan of Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

• Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
• Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
• “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
• Cross-Training is Crucial
• Wear Proper Running Shoes
• Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause 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.

The Danis-Weber classification is a way to categorize ankle fractures based on X-rays. It helps podiatrists understand the type and location of the fracture. There are three types of fractures in this system. Type A is a lower ankle fracture below the joint. It is generally stable and may only need a cast or brace. Sometimes, surgery is necessary if the inner ankle is also damaged. Type B is a fracture that happens at the ankle joint level and moves upward along the outer bone. It can vary in stability. The inner ankle or ligaments may be affected. Type C fractures are fractures above the ankle joint and often involve the inner ligaments, which are unstable and typically require surgery. If you have sustained a broken ankle, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an imaging test and treatment based on which type of fracture is found.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, 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. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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.

Pain on the bottom of the foot, particularly in the heel area, may be caused by plantar fasciosis, a condition often mistaken for plantar fasciitis. Unlike the latter, plantar fasciosis is characterized by repetitive stress on the plantar fascia rather than inflammation. Plantar fasciosis can develop due to a sedentary lifestyle, wearing high-heeled shoes, or having abnormal foot arches. Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendons also may contribute, and for that reason plantar fasciosis is common among runners, dancers, and anyone with poor foot posture. A sudden increase in activity or a shift to wearing less supportive footwear such as sandals, are other causes. The main symptom of plantar fasciosis is intense heel pain, particularly when first bearing weight in the morning or after periods of rest. A proper diagnosis involves a thorough examination of the foot and may include imaging tests. Understanding the difference between plantar fasciosis and plantar fasciitis is key to effective management of this type of pain. If you are grappling with persistent heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and the appropriate treatment options. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, 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.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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.

Podiatrists play a vital role in advising on shoe types and ensuring proper fitting, which is essential for foot health and comfort. They begin by evaluating the individual's foot shape, size, arch type, and any specific foot conditions, such as flat feet or high arches. Understanding these characteristics allows them to recommend shoes that provide the right support and fit. Podiatrists often suggest footwear with adequate cushioning, arch support, and a proper toe box size to accommodate the foot comfortably without causing pressure. For those with specific foot problems or unique biomechanical needs, podiatrists may recommend custom-made orthotic inserts. These inserts are designed to fit perfectly within the shoe, providing additional support and aligning the foot correctly to reduce strain and prevent injuries. Podiatrists also educate on the importance of replacing shoes regularly, especially for active individuals, as worn-out shoes can lead to poor foot alignment and increased injury risk. If you would like counsel on selecting the right shoe and size for you or your family members, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for this type of guidance.

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.

Athlete’s foot, medically known as tinea pedis, is a common and extremely contagious fungal infection that targets the skin on the feet, particularly the spaces between the toes. Among the primary indicators of athlete’s foot is persistent itching and burning sensations experienced between the toes and on the soles of the feet. The discomfort caused by this incessant itching can significantly impact daily activities, leading individuals to find relief through constant scratching or rubbing, which may serve to spread the infection. Redness and inflammation in the affected areas are also signs of athlete's foot. Prolonged exposure to moisture or heat, such as wearing sweaty shoes or walking barefoot in communal areas like public showers or pool areas, tends to exacerbate these symptoms. Peeling and cracking of the skin, especially in areas prone to excessive sweating or friction, are common occurrences in athlete’s foot. The skin may take on a dry, flaky appearance, resembling sunburn or dry skin, making diagnosis challenging without proper knowledge. In certain cases, athlete’s foot may result in blister formation, particularly when excess moisture is trapped within shoes or socks. Unlike blisters from other conditions, those caused by athlete's foot are typically smaller and may contain clear fluid or pus. It is vital not to pop these blisters, as doing so can increase the risk of infection. For help in managing the effects of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Kenneth Donovan from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best 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.