Items filtered by date: January 2024

Plantar fasciitis, the leading cause of heel pain, stems from inflammation or degeneration of the plantar fascia attaching to the heel. This thick tissue band, essential for foot support, manifests as pain under the heel, often extending into the arch. Symptoms of plantar fasciitis peak in the morning, but often subside as the foot warms throughout the day. Overuse is a key factor of plantar fasciitis, but risks heighten with poor foot biomechanics and other factors. These may include overpronation, a high-arched foot, and improper footwear choice. Additional contributors include excess weight, tight calf muscles, and plantar fascia tightness. Among the symptoms are morning heel pain, arch discomfort, and tenderness when pressing the heel. Distinguishing plantar fasciitis from similar conditions, such as a  bruised heel, heel spur, or stress fracture aids in an accurate diagnosis. Treatment involves pain and inflammation reduction, biomechanical correction, and targeted exercises. For a tailored approach to managing plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a full exam and suggested treatment. options.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Philip C. Caswell, DPM  from Family Foot & Ankle Care. 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 our office located in Sparta, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Pes planus, commonly known as flat foot, is a condition where the arch of the foot is lower or in contact with the ground when compared to the typical foot structure. It is important to note that infants are born with flexible flat feet. Arch development usually begins at approximately 3 years of age, and reaches adult levels in arch height between 7 and 10 years old. Flexible flat feet can be developmental in infants and toddlers but may be considered true flat feet by age 8 to 10. On the other hand, rigid flat feet are associated with underlying pathology and lack the longitudinal arches both in heel elevation and weight bearing. Acquired flat feet can develop from various factors, particularly diabetes, which can affect the structure and functionality of the feet. Additionally, foot and ankle injuries can lead to the development of flat feet. Certain medical conditions, including arthritis, spina bifida, cerebral palsy, and muscular dystrophy, are also associated with acquired pes planus. Interestingly, pregnancy can be a factor in the development of flat feet due to the changes that occur in the body during this period. Regardless of the reason for your flat feet, if they are causing you problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you to find relief.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Philip C. Caswell, DPM from Family Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

For runners, maintaining optimal foot flexibility is essential to enhance performance and prevent injuries. Incorporating a routine of targeted foot stretches into your pre- and post-run regimen can significantly contribute to overall foot health. Begin with a seated stretch, gently flexing and pointing your toes to improve ankle mobility. The toe stretch, achieved by sitting on your heels with toes tucked underneath, aids in relieving tension in the feet. Rolling a tennis ball beneath your foot applies pressure to release tightness in the arch, while the calf stretch is effective in preventing strains. Additionally, the plantar fascia stretch, involving a seated leg cross, helps alleviate tension in the soles. Prioritize these stretches not only to optimize your running experience but also to safeguard against potential foot-related discomfort and injuries in the long run. If you are seeking additional information about foot stretches or experience foot pain from running, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Philip C. Caswell, DPM from Family Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

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

Hammer toe surgery serves as an effective remedy, particularly when the deformity stands as the primary concern. Yet, in some cases surgical intervention is a must. Tendon transfer is a suitable option for correcting flexible hammer toes. This surgical approach involves repositioning the toe by pulling a nearby tendon across the joint. The procedure effectively corrects muscle weaknesses, enhances the toe's appearance, and mitigates associated pain. In instances of fixed hammer toes, joint resection proves beneficial. This surgical technique requires the cutting of ligaments and tendons to straighten the toe, potentially involving the removal of a portion of the bone. Temporary pins may be employed to maintain alignment, and they are typically removed several weeks post-surgery. For severe fixed hammer toes, fusion emerges as a possible solution. This process entails removing portions of the joint to facilitate bone fusion. Tendons, ligaments, and bone ends are cut, and the joint is stabilized using pins until the process is complete. If you have a hammertoe that impedes completing everyday activities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to determine the most appropriate surgical option for you.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Philip C. Caswell, DPM of Family Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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

Diabetic foot blisters are a rare, but distinctive complication of diabetes. They typically manifest as painless blisters on the feet of people with diabetes, often without an obvious cause like injury or friction. These blisters can resemble burn blisters, presenting a risk for infection, especially given the compromised wound-healing abilities associated with diabetes. The skin of diabetic patients is vulnerable due to a combination of poor circulation, diabetic neuropathy, and other skin complications like dryness and poor healing. Management of diabetic foot blisters involves careful monitoring to prevent infection, control of blood sugar levels to aid in healing, and protection from further injury. In most cases, they may resolve on their own with good diabetes management and proper foot care, which includes wearing well-fitting shoes and avoiding walking barefoot. However, if you are diabetic and have any new or worsening foot issues, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to ensure timely and appropriate treatment.

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 Philip C. Caswell, DPM of Family Foot & Ankle Care. 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 our office located in Sparta, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.