Items filtered by date: July 2024

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, occur when the skin on the bottom of the heel becomes dry, hard, and thickened, sometimes forming painful splits. Common causes of cracked heels can include prolonged standing, wearing open-heeled footwear, and skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. Surprisingly, athlete’s foot, which is a fungal infection, is another frequent cause, leading to dry, itchy, and fissured skin on the heels. If moisturizers and antifungal treatments do not resolve the issue, it could be indicative of an underlying health problem such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, or even bone spurs. A podiatrist can provide a thorough examination to diagnose the root cause of problematic cracked heels. If you have cracked heels or fissures, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with this type of doctor for an exam and treatment solutions.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Princeton Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

A Lisfranc foot injury involves damage to the midfoot, specifically the Lisfranc joint, which connects the forefoot and the arch. This injury can occur from a direct blow to the foot or from twisting or falling, leading to fractures or ligament tears. Symptoms of a Lisfranc injury include swelling, bruising, and significant pain in the midfoot, often exacerbated by standing or walking. The top of the foot may appear swollen, and there can be difficulty bearing weight. Misdiagnosis or delayed treatment can lead to chronic pain and instability. Prompt medical attention from a podiatrist is critical for an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan, which may include immobilization or surgery to ensure proper healing and restore function to the affected foot. If you have this type of foot fracture, it is suggested that you are under the care of this type of doctor who can offer you the best treatment solution.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Princeton Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

Diabetes can manifest in the feet through several noticeable signs. One common symptom is persistent numbness or tingling, often caused by nerve damage, known as diabetic neuropathy. This condition can lead to a loss of sensation, making it difficult to detect injuries or infections. Another sign is slow-healing sores or ulcers, which can develop from minor cuts or blisters due to poor circulation. Discoloration of the skin, such as redness, can indicate inflammation or infection. Swelling in the feet and ankles might also be present, signaling potential underlying issues. Additionally, changes in skin texture, including dryness or cracking, can occur. Fungal infections, particularly between the toes, are more frequent in diabetics. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage this serious condition.

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 Princeton Foot & Ankle Associates. 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

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

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 one of our offices located in Princeton and West Windsor, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetes can manifest in the feet through several noticeable signs. One common symptom is persistent numbness or tingling, often caused by nerve damage, known as diabetic neuropathy. This condition can lead to a loss of sensation, making it difficult to detect injuries or infections. Another sign is slow-healing sores or ulcers, which can develop from minor cuts or blisters due to poor circulation. Discoloration of the skin, such as redness, can indicate inflammation or infection. Swelling in the feet and ankles might also be present, signaling potential underlying issues. Additionally, changes in skin texture, including dryness or cracking, can occur. Fungal infections, particularly between the toes, are more frequent in diabetics. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage this serious condition.

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 Princeton Foot & Ankle Associates. 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

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

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 offices located in Princeton, and West Windsor, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain, often caused by plantar fasciitis, is a common condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot. This condition typically results from overuse, wearing poor footwear, or excessive standing and walking, leading to micro-tears in the fascia that cause pain and stiffness, especially in the morning. Treatment for plantar fasciitis usually involves rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and wearing supportive footwear. However, incorporating regular stretching into the treatment regimen can significantly alleviate chronic cases. Stretching exercises target the plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, and calf muscles, helping to increase flexibility, reduce tension, and promote healing. Techniques such as calf stretches, towel stretches, and plantar fascia-specific stretches can be particularly effective in managing symptoms and preventing recurrence. If you have persistent or severe heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist, who can provide specialized care and further 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 Princeton Foot & Ankle Associates. 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.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous exercise, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

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 one of our offices located in Princeton and West Windsor, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain, often caused by plantar fasciitis, is a common condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot. This condition typically results from overuse, wearing poor footwear, or excessive standing and walking, leading to micro-tears in the fascia that cause pain and stiffness, especially in the morning. Treatment for plantar fasciitis usually involves rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and wearing supportive footwear. However, incorporating regular stretching into the treatment regimen can significantly alleviate chronic cases. Stretching exercises target the plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, and calf muscles, helping to increase flexibility, reduce tension, and promote healing. Techniques such as calf stretches, towel stretches, and plantar fascia-specific stretches can be particularly effective in managing symptoms and preventing recurrence. If you have persistent or severe heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist, who can provide specialized care and further 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 Princeton Foot & Ankle Associates. 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.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous exercise, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

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 offices located in Princeton, and West Windsor, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Wearing high heels can be fashionable, but they often come with the price of foot and ankle pain. The design of high heels forces the foot into an unnatural position, placing excessive pressure on the ball of the foot and causing the toes to be cramped together. This can lead to a range of issues, including blisters, calluses, bunions, and hammertoes. The elevated heel also alters the body's alignment, putting additional strain on the ankles, knees, and lower back. High heels can also contribute to developing plantar fasciitis, where the ligament running along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed and painful. Ankle sprains are more likely due to the instability caused by the narrow heel base. To minimize these risks, it is important to choose high heels with proper support and cushioning, limit the time spent wearing them, and perform regular foot stretches and exercises to maintain flexibility and strength. If you experience foot or ankle pain after wearing high heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Princeton Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Princeton and West Windsor, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Wearing high heels can be fashionable, but they often come with the price of foot and ankle pain. The design of high heels forces the foot into an unnatural position, placing excessive pressure on the ball of the foot and causing the toes to be cramped together. This can lead to a range of issues, including blisters, calluses, bunions, and hammertoes. The elevated heel also alters the body's alignment, putting additional strain on the ankles, knees, and lower back. High heels can also contribute to developing plantar fasciitis, where the ligament running along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed and painful. Ankle sprains are more likely due to the instability caused by the narrow heel base. To minimize these risks, it is important to choose high heels with proper support and cushioning, limit the time spent wearing them, and perform regular foot stretches and exercises to maintain flexibility and strength. If you experience foot or ankle pain after wearing high heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Princeton Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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