Foot pain affects your ability to walk comfortably, stay active, and enjoy everyday routines. It may develop gradually or appear suddenly after an injury. Common symptoms include aching, tenderness, or discomfort when putting weight on your feet. Causes range from fractures to plantar fasciitis and ingrown toenails. Risk factors include repetitive stress, poorly fitting footwear, and certain foot structures. Identifying the source of pain is important because each condition requires different treatment. A podiatrist examines your feet and recommends care based on your symptoms and medical history.

A foot fracture occurs when one or more bones crack or break. It may result from a fall, direct impact, or repeated stress from activities such as running. Symptoms often include localized pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Some fractures cause immediate, intense discomfort, while stress fractures may develop gradually. A podiatrist may examine the injured area and order X-rays or other imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment includes immobilization with a boot or cast, restricted weight-bearing, and surgery for certain severe fractures.

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain involving irritation of the plantar fascia, a strong band of tissue supporting the arch. Repetitive strain, prolonged standing, and limited calf flexibility can contribute to this condition. Pain is often strongest with the first steps in the morning or after sitting for a long time. A podiatrist may recommend supportive shoes, custom orthotics, or other treatments to reduce strain and improve comfort.

An ingrown toenail develops when the nail edge grows into the surrounding skin, often affecting the big toe. Wearing tight shoes and improper nail trimming can contribute to redness, swelling, and tenderness. Infection may develop if the skin becomes damaged. A podiatrist safely manages the nail, treats infection when present, and performs a minor procedure if the problem keeps returning. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Glenn Aufseeser, DPM from Lakewood Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Gait describes the pattern an individual uses to walk, while a gait deviation is a change from a balanced walking pattern. A person may limp, shuffle, or take uneven steps, and the body may place more weight on one side. Some patients lift one foot higher because the toes do not clear the ground. Others lean to reduce pressure on a painful foot or ankle. These changes can affect stability and increase strain on other joints. They can make movement tiring and raise the risk of falling.

Gait deviations can begin with foot pain, weak muscles, or limited joint motion. Arthritis, an injury, or a difference in leg length can also change the way a person walks. Nerve problems may reduce feeling or muscle control in the feet. Shoes that fit poorly can contribute by restricting movement or failing to support the foot correctly. A deviation may develop suddenly after an injury or appear gradually as a condition progresses. Warning signs include repeated tripping, uneven shoe wear, or pain that travels into the knee. Hip or lower-back discomfort can develop when the body shifts weight to compensate.

A podiatrist can watch how the feet, ankles, and legs move when walking. The evaluation includes checking joint motion, muscle strength, and balance. The podiatrist may also examine shoe wear and foot alignment. X-rays or other imaging can help identify a bone or joint problem. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the deviation. A podiatrist may recommend properly-fitted shoes, custom orthotics, or a brace to improve support. A shoe lift can help when one leg is shorter than the other. Care for corns, calluses, or painful joints may also make walking more comfortable. When a serious foot deformity causes ongoing pain, surgery may be considered. If you have deviations in gait that are causing pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Glenn Aufseeser, DPM from Lakewood Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or as if the room were spinning around you can signal a balance problem. Balance can become less reliable with age, but dizziness is not a normal change that should be ignored. Inner-ear disorders, medical conditions, and certain medications can affect steadiness. Foot pain, numbness, and muscle weakness can also make it harder to sense the ground or respond to a misstep. These problems can increase the risk of falling and reduce a person’s confidence in everyday activities.

A podiatrist can examine the feet and ankles for problems that affect stability. The evaluation includes checking joint movement, muscle strength, and sensation. The podiatrist can also study how the patient stands and moves when walking. Painful arthritis, fallen arches, or an earlier ankle injury can change the way weight passes through the feet. Nerve damage can reduce awareness of pressure and position. Thick toenails, corns, or calluses can also make each step painful and less secure. Identifying these concerns helps the podiatrist recommend care that addresses the patient’s specific fall risks.

Treatment can focus on improving comfort, support, and control. A podiatrist can provide custom orthotics to improve foot position or redistribute pressure. Wearing shoes with low heels, nonslip soles, and a secure fit can help patients maintain contact with the ground. A brace may improve stability when ankle weakness is present. The podiatrist can also treat painful skin and nail problems that interfere with a steady step. Patients should report recent falls and changes in sensation, even when no injury is visible. Regular foot examinations can identify new concerns before they further limit safe movement. If you have fallen and injured your foot or ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Glenn Aufseeser, DPM from Lakewood Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

A bunion is a common foot deformity that develops when the joint at the base of the big toe shifts out of alignment. The big toe may gradually move toward the smaller toes while the joint becomes more prominent along the inside of the foot. Bunions can form slowly, and early changes may not cause much discomfort. Genetics, foot structure, and long-term pressure from footwear may increase the risk. Narrow shoes can make symptoms more noticeable, but they are not the only cause.

Bunion symptoms can vary from person to person. A visible bump is often the first sign. Pain may develop around the big toe joint, especially while walking or standing. Some people notice redness, swelling, or irritation where shoes rub against the bunion. As the toe becomes less aligned, the foot may distribute weight differently. This can contribute to imbalance and an impaired gait. You may change how you step to avoid pressure, which can place extra stress on other parts of the foot.

A podiatrist can examine the foot, review your symptoms, and assess alignment and movement. X-rays may be used to evaluate the bones and determine the severity of the deformity. Treatment often begins with wearing better-fitting shoes, protective padding, and activity adjustments. A podiatrist may also recommend custom orthotics to improve support and pressure distribution. If pain remains severe or the bunion progresses, surgical correction may be considered. The appropriate procedure depends on the bunion and surrounding joints.

Getting attention early can help you understand what is causing your foot pain and what treatment options may be appropriate. A podiatrist can monitor changes and create a plan based on your needs. If you have a bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions. 

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Glenn Aufseeser, DPM of Lakewood Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor 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

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

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 offices located in Lakewood and Manchester Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.