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Lumberton (609) 261-2223
1561 New Jersey 38, Lumberton, NJ 08048

July 2023

Tuesday, 25 July 2023 00:00

Which Type of Orthotic Do I Need?

Orthotics are insoles that are worn in the shoes to provide additional support for the feet. They are used for different reasons, including overall foot health, abnormal foot structure, and various foot ailments. There are several kinds of orthotics to choose from. Orthotics that are prescribed by a podiatrist are designed to fit and correct an individual's unique foot and specific condition. They are made by taking an impression of the feet and can be successful in treating plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or heel spurs. Mass-produced inserts are referred to as prefabricated orthotics, and can fit a large range of foot types. They can be purchased in a pharmacy, and are available in numerous sizes and arch types. People who have mild foot pain may benefit from over-the-counter insoles, which may provide temporary relief. If you have any type of foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to choose the right type of orthotics based on the cause of your foot pain.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Port Richmond Family Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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

Read more about Foot Orthotics
Published in Blog
Tuesday, 18 July 2023 00:00

Runners and Big Toe Pain

People who participate in running or jogging may experience pain in their big toe. The main joint in the big toe can be prone to undergoing substantial forces while running. It is known as the MTP, or metatarsophalangeal, joint. As the body shifts between the heel and toes while running, the weight can shift to the big toe, which is used as a lever for pushing off. The sesamoid bones are located under the MTP joints, and are as small as sesame seeds. They are prone to injury when they are overworked, and the pain can radiate to the big toe. Additionally, having arthritis in the MTP joint may lead to toe pain, and the affected area may feel stiff. This is known to become worse with age, and mild relief may be felt when the correct shoes are worn. If you have pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you additional relief options.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Port Richmond Family 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:

  • 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 our office located in Lumberton, NJ, . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Published in Blog
Tuesday, 11 July 2023 00:00

The Definition of a Bunion

A bunion is a progressive bone disorder and is considered to be a deformity. It is defined as a bony lump that develops on the side of the big toe and may change the structure of the foot. Severe bunions may cause the other toes to shift toward each other, and larger shoes may need to be purchased. A common reason why people get bunions can be from the shoes that are worn. If the shoe does not have adequate room for toes to move freely in, they may gradually become cramped, and a small bump may be noticeable. Bunions may also happen from genetic reasons, or possibly from having flat feet or low arches. Temporary relief may be found when a protective pad is placed over the bunion, in addition to wearing shoes that fit correctly. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can provide a more permanent solution, which may include surgery for removal.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Port Richmond Family Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

  • Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
  • Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
  • Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
  • Orthotics or foot inserts
  • Surgery

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

Read more about Bunions
Published in Blog
Wednesday, 05 July 2023 00:00

Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

Published in Blog
Tuesday, 04 July 2023 00:00

Why Does My Heel Hurt?

Heel pain is a common foot condition, and there are various reasons why it can happen. The largest tendon in the body is called the Achilles tendon, and it attaches to the heel. An injury can cause this tendon to become torn or irritated, and heel pain may ensue. Many people suffer from plantar fasciitis, which is caused by an inflamed plantar fascia. This is the band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes, and the pain is often felt in the heel. The condition that is known as neuropathy can cause the inability to feel sensations in the foot, including the heel. Waking can be difficult, and patients may need to use a cane or walker to maintain balance. A stone bruise is a heel disorder that can happen to people who jump from heights and lands on their feet. This condition may affect the heel pad, which acts as a shock absorber and may possibly become damaged. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can determine what the reason is and offer treatment options that are correct for you.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Port Richmond Family Footcare. Our doctors 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 our office located in Lumberton, NJ, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Heel Pain
Published in Blog
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