Volleyball players commonly experience foot injuries due to the fast-paced and dynamic nature of the sport. Sprained ankles and twisted knees frequently occur, often resulting from sudden stops, starts, and side-to-side movements on the court. Additionally, repetitive jumping and landing can lead to conditions like plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and Achilles tendonitis. Immediate relief for these types of injuries includes taking a break from volleyball play, resting the affected foot, and elevating it as often as possible. If you have more severe injuries or those that worsen over time, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist for care. This foot and ankle expert can accurately diagnose the problem and provide appropriate treatment so that you can return to the game as quickly as possible.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Livingston Footcare. Our doctors 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:
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 our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Haglund's deformity is a foot abnormality where the heel bone and soft tissues develop an enlarged bony section at the Achilles insertion, causing heel pain and swelling. It is linked to retrocalcaneal bursitis, often referred to as "pump bump" or "winter heel" due to pressure from pump-style shoes. This condition commonly affects runners and women aged 15 to 35, particularly those who wear high heels. Factors such as genetics, high arches, tight Achilles tendon, and walking on the outer heel edge contribute to its formation. Wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes also exacerbates the condition. Treatment ranges from anti-inflammatories to surgery to remove the bony protrusion. If you have a bump on the back of your heel that causes foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
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 one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors 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 our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
A band of tissue called the plantar fascia runs along the sole of the foot, connecting the toes to the heel. When this tissue becomes inflamed, it can result in pain in the foot, arch, and heel, and is a condition termed plantar fasciitis. Although the plantar fascia is built to absorb pressure, if too much is applied, the plantar fascia can tear. It is a common condition among walkers, runners, and other athletes, and is the most frequent complaint of heel pain. Symptoms can include a sharp or burning pain in the heel that feels worse when you get up in the morning but wears off after activity begins. Plantar fasciitis also can make lifting the toes off the ground more difficult. If the pain inhibits performing normal daily activities, or if it stops you from sleeping, it may be time to get medical help. Ignoring plantar fasciitis can lead to long-term heel pain. An X-ray or additional imaging tests can help to determine the cause and severity of the heel pain. If you think you may have plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who is trained to deal with this condition.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors 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?
How Can It Be Treated?
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 our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Despite the fact that plantar warts are harmless skin growths, they can produce severe pain. They grow inward and can produce discomfort as pressure is exerted while walking. They are considered to be contagious and may spread to other areas of the foot. Plantar warts can develop from exposure to a specific type of fungus, which is found in warm and moist environments. These can include public swimming pools, locker rooms, and similar areas. It is important to refrain from sharing towels, shoes and socks, and this may help to prevent the spread of plantar warts. Many people choose to seek relief from using over the counter remedies, despite this being a temporary fix. If you have a plantar wart, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can offer a more permanent solution, which may include minor surgery for removal.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
About Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.
While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.
Symptoms
Treatment
To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
When the tendon that attaches the calf muscle to the heel is completely torn, it is known as an Achilles tendon tear. This injury is often seen in middle-aged male sports participants. The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body, and it is prone to injury, especially during sports involving running and jumping because sudden and explosive force is exerted on it. Certain antibiotics and cortisone shots can make one more apt to tear this tendon, and some medical professionals do not give cortisone shots for Achilles tendonitis for this reason. The main symptom of an Achilles tear is sudden and intense pain behind the ankle. Some who have sustained this injury have heard a popping or cracking sound and describe it as being kicked in the heel. There is often difficulty pointing toes down and some may experience swelling and bruising around the tendon. If you think you have torn your Achilles tendon, it is strongly suggested that you see a podiatrist as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Livingston Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
Rupture Symptoms
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
One of the most common causes of pain among athletes and runners are stress fractures. These hairline cracks in the bones of the feet can happen from repetitive force that occurs each time the foot strikes the ground. Stress fractures have also been linked to poor eating habits, consuming too much alcohol, and smoking. In most cases, stress fractures can begin to develop with a sudden increase in activity. For example, a runner may increase mileage in too short a period of time. If the feet are not given enough time to recover, the bones can become vulnerable by working too hard to absorb repetitive shock. Reduced levels of vitamin D and calcium also may weaken bones, causing them to be at risk of stress fractures. Ill-fitting shoes, running on hard surfaces, and poor technique are other causes of stress fractures. A major symptom of stress fractures is pain that continues after the activity ends and the foot is at rest. Tenderness and swelling are other common symptoms. For help with foot pain caused by stress fractures, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist.
Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors 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:
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 feel free to contact our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
There are congenital foot conditions that can affect newborn babies. A common abnormality is referred to as metatarsus adductus and is visible by the curve in the middle of the foot. Additionally, calcaneovalgus is evident as the foot is pushed up and out, making it difficult to point the foot down. Many times these conditions can gradually improve without medical attention and are generally not considered to be serious. Examples of complicated congenital foot ailments include clubfoot and congenital vertical talus. They may look similar to metatarsus adductus, however, prompt medical attention is needed for permanent relief. Treatment can consist of using casts soon after birth that are replaced weekly, and this is referred to as the Ponseti method. If your child has been born with a foot abnormality, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage your child’s foot condition.
Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Livingston Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.
What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?
A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.
What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?
Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:
Treatment and Prevention
While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Cuboid syndrome involves lateral foot and ankle pain and is a disruption of the calcaneocuboid part of the midtarsal joint, which irritates the surrounding areas. The foot is made up of 26 bones, and the cuboid bone provides stability to the foot. This syndrome is thought to be from overuse, plantar flexion difficulties, and inversion ankle sprains. Athletes with foot injuries, particularly ballet dancers, can develop cuboid syndrome. Orthotics that are not constructed properly and heel spur surgery can also trigger the symptoms of this syndrome Because radiographic imaging does not detect this syndrome, it can be difficult to recognize, and can easily be misdiagnosed and mistreated. A diagnosis is based on history and symptoms. However, once properly diagnosed, it can respond well to conservative treatment that involves manipulation of the cuboid bone, exercises, and taping. If you have lateral foot and ankle pain that is persistent, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.
Causes
The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:
Symptoms
A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Cuts and sores are common occurrences, and many happen to the feet. This is especially true during the summer months, when people are more likely to wear sandals and flip flops. In most cases, these minor wounds heal with a small amount of antiseptic gel and a bandage. However, if a wound does not heal properly, it may cause painful foot conditions. Signs that a wound needs professional care can include excessive bleeding, increasing pain, and pus or discharge. If a foot wound is becoming worse, a podiatrist can treat it with a series of actions. This can begin with flushing out the wound for any foreign particles that may be embedded, likely followed with a tetanus shot. With larger wounds, especially those bleeding profusely, stitches may be required, and pain medication will likely be prescribed. In certain cases, such as a diabetic ulcer, surgical treatment may be necessary. For more information about foot wound care, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible.
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 one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors 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 feel free to contact our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
People who are afflicted with plantar warts may have difficulty walking. These growths are found on the soles of the feet and can cause severe pain and discomfort. This is a result of the consistent weight the feet endure while walking and standing during the day. Plantar warts are caused by a virus that is known as the human papillomavirus, or HPV. This virus is contagious, and lives in warm and moist environments. These can consist of public swimming pools, locker rooms, and shower room floors. It is beneficial to wear appropriate shoes while in these areas, such as flip flops or water shoes. This type of wart will generally take several weeks or months to completely disappear. Many patients seek treatment to relieve the pain, which may include removal for faster relief. If you have a plantar wart, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can guide you toward the treatment that is correct for you.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
About Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.
While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.
Symptoms
Treatment
To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Working on your feet all day or exercising vigorously are just a couple of things that can cause your feet to feel sore. You might have a problematic foot structure, like flat feet or high arches, that result in aching feet. You could have also sustained an injury that caused damage to your feet, or if you are overweight, the extra pounds you carry could be putting a burden on your feet. There are times when your feet hurt that it is essential to see a podiatrist immediately, such as fracturing a foot or ankle or having a diabetic foot ulcer. Things you can do to soothe your feet when they hurt include soaking them, stretching them, and making sure shoes are comfortable and fit well. To prevent foot pain or treat it when it gets out of control, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist regularly to have your feet examined and make sure you are tending to them the best way you can.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Osteoarthritis, or OA, can affect the base of the big toe and cause significant pain. This type of arthritis occurs when joints wear down, and bones become exposed and rub against each other. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and a limited range of motion. Walking may become difficult, and neuropathy can develop as OA of the big toe worsens. As with many other foot conditions, pain with big toe arthritis is often worse after periods of inactivity. Sometimes a reactive bone process can happen with OA, where the body will attempt to repair itself by growing more bone. Bony protrusions, called spurs, can then grow on the joint, which heightens pain, causes the toe to stiffen, and can lead to a visible bump or callus on the toe. If you suffer from OA of the big toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist, who can provide options for relief.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Livingston Footcare. Our doctors 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:
When to See a Podiatrist
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 our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.