Items filtered by date: June 2022

Ankle pain refers to any kind of discomfort or pain in the ankles. Such discomfort may come from an injury, a sprain, or a medical condition. An ankle sprain is one of the most common causes of ankle pain. A sprain is when the ligaments, or tissues connecting bones, tear or become overstretched. Most of these strains occur when the foot rolls and the outside ankle twists towards the ground. Ankle sprains often swell and bruise. Pain can last for up to 14 days, but it may take several months for the injury to heal fully. Ankle pain can also be a result of a health condition, such as arthritis, gout, or an infection in a joint. Rest can help ankle pain and once the pain subsides, gentle exercise of the ankles can help gain mobility back and reduce swelling. If the pain is from arthritis, there is no cure, but it can be managed by continuing to move, practicing stretching and strengthening exercises, and keeping body weight in a healthy range. If one has broken their ankle, it is important to consult with a podiatrist to see how bad the break is and if the ankle needs to be set or if surgery is necessary. If after giving an injury time to heal, and making lifestyle modifications, the pain worsens, or it becomes impossible to bear weight on the affected foot, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment plan customized for you. 

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle 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.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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.

An elevated blood sugar level in the body may lead to a condition known as diabetes. It can damage the nerves in the feet and it can be difficult to feel existing cuts, bruises, or scrapes. An infected cut on the bottom of the foot could evolve into a foot ulcer, and the foot may have to be amputated if it is not promptly treated. It is important to perform proper diabetic foot care and this is done by using a mirror to check the bottom of the feet. Additionally, when the feet are washed and dried thoroughly, they will generally feel better. This can be followed by trimming the toenails straight across instead of curved. Many diabetic patients understand the importance of refraining from walking barefoot and this is an added measure in protecting the feet. Shoes are to be worn with socks that are well-padded and both need to be comfortable and fit properly. It is beneficial to purchase shoes at the end of the day when the feet are at their largest. Patients who have diabetes are suggested to be under the care of a podiatrist who can help them properly treat and manage their foot care issues.

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 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.

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 Lakewood and Manchester Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Corns are hard bumps that develop on the skin, typically on the feet. They can occur due to pressure and friction caused by poorly fitting shoes. The skin hardens to protect the delicate tissue underneath. Corns are like calluses, but they can become tender and cause pain too. They are generally not serious but may be uncomfortable. Removing the ill-fitting shoes or source of friction is the best way to prevent corns from worsening. Usually soaking the affected foot, applying a moisturizer, and rubbing the corn with a washcloth will help soften the corn and remove excess layers of skin that have built up. If you develop a corn that does not heal, begins to bleed, or becomes infected it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist. 

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Glenn Aufseeser, DPM of Lakewood Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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.

If you walk around feeling like you have a pebble in your shoe under the ball of the foot, you might have Morton’s neuroma. This is a thickening of the tissues next to nerves leading to the toe. Women are much more likely to suffer from this condition than men because they are more apt to wear high heels, which put pressure on the feet. Wearing shoes that are too tight or narrow may also lead to this uncomfortable foot ailment. Beyond feeling like there is a pebble under your foot, one can experience pain, burning, cramping, and/or numbness of the foot. Rest, foot stretching exercises to promote blood circulation, massaging the affected part of the foot, using shoe pads or orthotics to help absorb pressure, and wearing well fitting, flatter, supportive shoes should all help with irritation of a Morton’s neuroma. However, if you are having troubling symptoms for a prolonged time, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and a treatment plan.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Glenn Aufseeser, DPM of Lakewood Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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.