Items filtered by date: March 2025

Clubfoot repair surgery is performed to improve the position and function of a foot and ankle affected by this birth condition. A podiatrist can determine if surgery is needed based on the severity of the deformity and prior treatment. During the clubfoot repair surgery, adjustments are made to the tendons to help the foot move into a more natural position. This may include lengthening the Achilles tendon. In some cases, small bone corrections may be required to support proper alignment. After surgery, a cast is placed on the baby’s foot to protect it and assist with healing. The cast is typically worn for several weeks and may need to be changed a few times. As the foot heals, follow-up care helps ensure the best possible outcome. While some stiffness may remain, surgery can greatly improve mobility and allow for an active lifestyle. If your child was born with clubfoot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of New Jersey Foot & Ankle Centers. 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:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

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 Oradell, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, typically affecting the bottom of the foot near the heel. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that supports the arch, becomes inflamed due to overuse or strain. The most noticeable symptom is sharp, stabbing pain, especially with the first few steps in the morning or after sitting for long periods. The pain may decrease as you move, but can return after prolonged activity. The main causes of plantar fasciitis include excessive walking, running, or standing, especially on hard surfaces. Among other causes are wearing unsupportive footwear or having foot abnormalities like flat feet or high arches. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the condition and recommending treatment, such as stretching exercises, custom orthotics, or corticosteroid injections. In severe cases, surgery may be needed. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and correct treatment methods.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from New Jersey Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Oradell, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Arthritis can make running difficult, but the right adjustments help reduce pain and keep you active. Wearing the right footwear is essential. Well-cushioned, supportive running shoes or custom orthotics absorb shock and improve stability, reducing strain on arthritic joints. Modifying your stride and running surface can also make a big difference. Shortening your stride and landing on the midfoot instead of the heel helps lessen the impact on knees and hips. Choosing softer surfaces like grass or a rubberized track instead of concrete minimizes stress on joints. Preparing your body before and after a run is equally important. Warming up with gentle movement and stretching before running improves flexibility while cooling down and elevating the feet helps control inflammation. If your arthritis is interfering with comfortable running, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for personalized advice and support.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from New Jersey Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Oradell, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a type of arthritis that causes sudden, intense pain, typically in the big toe. It occurs when uric acid builds up in the body, forming crystals in the joints. This leads to swelling, redness, and extreme tenderness. Gout attacks often come on suddenly and can cause the affected joint to feel hot, swollen, and stiff, making even the slightest touch unbearable. A podiatrist can help manage gout by assessing the severity of the attack and offering treatment to reduce pain and inflammation. This type of doctor may recommend anti-inflammatory medication to ease the symptoms. Lifestyle changes, like adjusting diet and managing weight, are also essential in preventing future flare-ups. In some cases, a podiatrist might suggest custom orthotics to provide relief while walking. If you experience recurring pain or have swelling in your toe joints, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat gout.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from New Jersey Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors 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 our office located in Oradell, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.