Blisters on the feet are fluid-filled sacs that form on the outer layer of the skin, typically caused by friction or pressure. They can occur due to wearing ill-fitting footwear, prolonged walking or running, excessive moisture, or repetitive rubbing against the skin. Blisters often manifest as a raised area filled with clear fluid, which may be painful or tender to the touch. In some cases, they can cause discomfort while walking or wearing shoes. While blisters often heal on their own within a few days, they can sometimes lead to complications such as infection if not properly managed. It is important to keep on top of foot blisters should they form. Keep the area clean and protected to prevent infection. If you have a blister that becomes red, swollen or shows signs of pus, or if you develop recurrent or large blisters that cause severe pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for care to prevent further complications.
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 one of our podiatrists of Livingston Footcare. Our doctors 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)
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 our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Clubfoot is a congenital condition where a baby's foot is twisted inward, making walking difficult. It can affect one or both feet. Podiatrists play a vital role in managing clubfoot. They assess the severity of the condition through physical examinations and imaging tests. Treatment often involves a combination of gentle manipulation, casting, and bracing to gradually correct the foot's position. Podiatrists closely monitor the progress and adjust treatment accordingly to ensure optimal outcomes. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. Podiatrists also provide valuable guidance and support to parents, educating them on proper foot care and exercises to promote normal development. If your child was born with clubfoot, it is strongly recommended that regular appointments with a podiatrist are scheduled. Early intervention can significantly improve the prognosis, helping your child lead a more active and fulfilling life without the limitations imposed by this 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.
Healing wounds properly involves cells moving and tissue rebuilding in a coordinated way. But in some wounds, like those in diabetes, this process does not work well due to various issues like poor blood flow, infections, and ongoing damage. There's hope for treating such wounds better. By understanding and fixing these issues, following proper care, and using new medical technology, there can be improvement for people with stubborn wounds. If you are diabetic and have chronic foot wounds, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss any new medical technology that might be applied to your case and provide you with relief.
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.
Bunions are common foot deformities that can be recognized by the formation of a bony bump at the base of the big toe. The tip of the toe is then pushed in the opposite direction, toward the smaller toes. A bunion is often accompanied by pain, inflammation, restricted toe movement, and the development of calluses or corns. While anyone can develop a bunion, certain risk factors heighten susceptibility. Wearing ill-fitting footwear, particularly high heels or narrow shoes, exerts pressure on the toes and contributes to bunion formation. Additionally, genetic predispositions play a significant role, with family history indicating a higher likelihood of developing foot structure abnormalities that may lead to bunions. Various foot conditions such as flat feet, low arches, or previous foot injuries increase the risk. Medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and connective tissue disorders are often associated with bunions. If you or your child show a tendency toward developing a bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and recommended treatment measures.
If you are suffering from bunion pain, 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 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
Symptoms
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 our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
A broken toe, medically termed a toe fracture, can occur due to various reasons, ranging from accidental trauma to repetitive stress on the foot. Accidental mishaps such as stubbing the toe against furniture or dropping a heavy object on it are common causes of toe fractures. Additionally, sports injuries and sudden impacts during physical activities can also result in toe fractures. The small size and vulnerability of toe bones make them susceptible to fractures from seemingly minor incidents. Complications of a broken toe may include persistent pain, swelling, and difficulty in walking or bearing weight on the affected foot. In some cases, untreated fractures can lead to improper healing, deformity, and chronic pain. Moreover, individuals with underlying conditions like osteoporosis may be at higher risk of sustaining toe fractures and experiencing complications. Understanding the causes and potential complications of a broken toe underscores the importance of prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment to ensure optimal recovery and prevent long-term problems. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can confirm the diagnosis, and offer the treatment option that is best for you.
Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is a Broken Toe?
A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.
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.
Selecting proper footwear is essential for managing arthritis-related foot pain and maintaining mobility. Shoes should support individual foot types and joint conditions to prevent discomfort and enhance movement. Features such as stabilizing cushioning, roomy toe boxes, and rocker bottoms may help to alleviate pressure on the forefoot. Casual shoes and athletic sneakers with supportive cushioning are recommended, while dress shoes should prioritize function over style, favoring a wide-toe box and sturdy heels. Sandals with adjustable straps provide customized fit and support, while flip-flops may increase instability. Ultimately, choosing appropriate footwear can significantly improve comfort and mobility for individuals with arthritis. If you suffer from arthritis and it causes foot discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss specific shoe recommendations that may improve your comfort and quality of life.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, 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.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.
In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.
Alleviating Arthritic Pain
It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.
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.
Foot conditions in children can arise for a variety of reasons, often requiring attention and intervention to ensure optimal foot health and development. Flat feet, a condition where the arches of the feet are lower than usual, are a common concern among children. While flat feet often resolve on their own as the child grows, persistent issues may require orthotic intervention to provide support and promote proper alignment. Another prevalent issue is ingrown toenails, which occur when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain and discomfort. Wearing tight or improperly fitted footwear is a common culprit behind ingrown toenails. Additionally, conditions such as plantar warts, athlete's foot, and foot deformities such as bunions or hammertoes may affect children's feet. Regular foot inspections, proper footwear, and seeking prompt medical attention from a podiatrist for any concerning symptoms are essential practices to address foot problems in children. If you are concerned about your children’s feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can ease your mind while pinpointing and treating the specific condition.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, 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.
Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
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.
Maintaining healthy feet as you age is an important way to improve overall well-being. Normal changes like foot widening, thinning skin, and reduced padding are common in older adults. However, wearing proper footwear, including well-fitted shoes and custom orthotic inserts, can help to alleviate discomfort. Establishing a regular foot care routine, including washing, moisturizing, and trimming the toenails, is essential. Engaging in light exercise promotes circulation and flexibility, benefiting foot health as well as overall well being. Be vigilant for abnormal signs, such as persistent sores, joint pain, bunions, hammertoes, or frequent falls, which may indicate underlying health issues that require medical attention. Regular podiatric check-ups are a good way to monitor foot health and address concerns as they arise. Opt for foot-friendly shoes with a wide toe box and low heels to reduce pressure and minimize the risk of falls. For help with any foot problems that arise as you age, it is suggested you schedule regular visits with a podiatrist.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, 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.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
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.
Ankle sprains are common injuries that generally affect the anterior talofibular ligament or the calcaneofibular ligament. The severity of an ankle sprain can vary based on how the injury happened, the foot's position during the injury, and how much of the joints and its ligaments were twisted. Mild ankle sprains are classified as grades one and two and involve stretching or tiny tears in the ligaments that help stabilize the ankle. A grade three or severe ankle sprain can harm the ligaments connecting to the lower leg. It is important to treat and rehabilitate ankle sprains properly to ensure a full recovery and prevent further damage. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is and offer appropriate treatment options.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle 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.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
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.
Heel stretch exercises can offer an effective solution for relieving foot pain and tightness. One beneficial heel stretch is the gastrocnemius heel stretch, performed by standing facing a wall with the leg to be stretched behind and toes pointing forward. Start by keeping the back heel down and the knee straight while lunging forward onto the front leg. This helps to reduce tension and friction on foot structures, ultimately alleviating foot and ankle pain. Another helpful technique is the foot pull stretch. Sit with one leg crossed over the other, and gently pull all toes back toward the shin to provide relief for plantar fascia tightness. The ball rolling exercise is accomplished by sitting with the foot resting on a golf or tennis ball and rolling it backward and forward. This has been effective in stretching the soft tissues underneath the heel and ball of the foot, which may ease pain from plantar fasciitis. Incorporating these stretches into a daily routine can significantly contribute to diminishing foot pain and enhancing overall foot health, promoting a more comfortable and pain free lifestyle. If you are experiencing foot or heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an examination and treatment options.
Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Stretching the Feet
Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first to determine if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.
It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.
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.
Diabetic foot ulcers pose a significant risk for individuals with diabetes, due to poor skin circulation and reduced foot sensation. Preventative measures, such as regular foot examinations and maintaining optimal diabetic control, are essential in averting these complications. Once diabetic foot ulcers develop, effective treatment becomes paramount. Typically, a protective dressing is applied, and a podiatrist plays a pivotal role in regular examination, cleaning, and redressing of the ulcer. Podiatrists may also remove hard skin hindering the healing process and prescribe padding or recommend specialized shoes to alleviate pressure. In cases of infection, oral antibiotics can be prescribed, and, if necessary, intravenous antibiotics can be administered. Surgical procedures, such as draining pus or removing dead tissue, may be required in severe infections. While many foot ulcers respond well to treatment, some may lead to severe infections or other complications. Managing diabetic foot ulcers is a long-term problem, emphasizing early intervention and meticulous care for improved outcomes and overall foot health. For help in managing diabetic foot ulcers, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, 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.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
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.