Foot wounds can develop from cuts, pressure, burns, or injuries that damage the skin and underlying tissue. Although some wounds appear minor at first, they may become more serious if they do not heal properly. People with diabetes, poor circulation, or reduced feeling in their feet have a greater risk of developing complications, because wounds may heal more slowly. Common signs of a foot wound include pain, swelling, and drainage. Some wounds may also develop redness or an unpleasant odor if an infection is present. Because untreated foot wounds can worsen over time, a professional evaluation is important to determine the cause and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

The healing process depends on healthy blood flow, proper pressure distribution, and the condition of the surrounding tissue. If a wound remains open for an extended period, it may become deeper and increase the risk of infection. Ongoing pressure on the affected area can also delay healing and make walking more difficult. A thorough podiatry evaluation helps determine the size, depth, and severity of the wound. Additional testing may be recommended if there are concerns about circulation or infection. Early diagnosis allows treatment to begin promptly and helps reduce the risk of long-term complications that could affect foot health and mobility.

A podiatrist plays an important role in evaluating and treating foot wounds while monitoring the healing process. Professional care focuses on protecting healthy tissue, encouraging wound healing, and reducing the risk of infection. Treatment is tailored to each patient's condition and may be adjusted as the wound improves. Regular follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to monitor healing and identify any changes that require additional care. If you have a foot wound that is painful, slow to heal, or showing signs of infection, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, 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.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please 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.

Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, occur when the arches of the feet fail to develop properly or gradually collapse over time. In many cases, flat feet in adults originate as a structural pattern present during childhood. While some children naturally outgrow flexible flat feet as their arches form, others continue to have low or absent arches into adulthood. Without proper support or early intervention, this condition can affect body alignment, balance, and overall foot function.

Common symptoms of flat feet include pain in the arch or heel, along with swelling along the inside of the ankle. Some individuals may experience discomfort during prolonged standing or walking, while others notice uneven wear on their shoes. As the condition progresses, the lack of arch support can place increased strain on the ankles, knees, and lower back, potentially leading to additional musculoskeletal issues. Identifying these symptoms early can help reduce complications and improve long-term mobility.

The causes of flat feet often involve a combination of genetic factors, ligament laxity, and improper foot development during childhood. When the arches do not form correctly, the feet may remain overly flexible and collapse under body weight. In adults, flat feet can worsen due to tendon weakness, injury, aging, or prolonged stress on the feet. Early intervention with supportive measures, such as custom orthotics or properly fitted footwear, can help promote better alignment and reduce strain on the foot structure.

Risk factors include a family history of flat feet, occupations that involve long periods of standing, and repetitive physical activity. Wearing unsupportive shoes can further contribute to arch collapse and discomfort. Preventive care and early evaluation are especially important for children showing signs of flat feet. If you or your child have flat feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you toward effective management strategies.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Glenn Aufseeser, DPM from Lakewood Foot and Ankle Specialists. 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 offices located in Lakewood and Manchester Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

High heels can create a polished look, but they also place extra stress on the feet. As heel height increases, more body weight shifts toward the front of the foot. This added pressure affects the toes and the ball of the foot with every step. A narrow toe box squeezes the toes together, making normal movement more difficult. High heels that lack proper support also reduce stability and increase strain on muscles and joints. This raises the risk of bunions, corns, and calluses, along with increasing the chances of an ankle sprain. Some people notice burning, numbness, or swelling after long periods of standing or while walking in high heels.

Choosing high heels carefully helps reduce stress on the feet without giving up style. A proper fit is one of the most important features. High heels that are too tight or too loose increase pressure and friction. Open-toe styles provide extra room for the toes and reduce crowding. Lower heels place less weight on the front of the foot than very high styles. A wider heel also improves balance and spreads weight more evenly. A less dramatic slope from heel to toe places less strain on the foot and ankle. Small design changes can make high heels more comfortable while helping protect the feet.

When foot pain continues from wearing high heels, a podiatrist can identify the cause and recommend the most effective treatment. An examination can determine whether pain comes from irritated joints, strained soft tissues, or changes in foot structure. Treatment includes custom orthotics, padding to reduce pressure, and care for corns or calluses. A podiatrist also treats bunions, hammertoes, and other problems before they become more severe. If you have foot pain after wearing high heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief tips and guidance on choosing high heels suited to your needs.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, 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.

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

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe when the joint gradually moves out of its normal position. As the big toe shifts toward the second toe, the joint begins to stick outward and can become painful. This change can make standing, wearing shoes, and walking more difficult. The skin over the bump can become red, swollen, and tender. Some people also notice stiffness in the big toe or have trouble moving the joint through its full range of motion. As the bunion becomes larger, it can affect balance and change the way weight is placed on the foot. A podiatrist can evaluate the joint and determine how much the bunion is affecting foot function.

Several factors increase the chance of developing a bunion. Family history plays an important role because foot shape can be inherited. Arthritis can also affect the joint and contribute to the deformity. Wearing shoes that squeeze the toes into a narrow space can place added pressure on the joint and increase discomfort. Shoes that lack proper support can place extra stress on the front of the foot while walking. A podiatrist performs a physical examination and studies the position of the bones in the foot. X-rays are frequently used to measure the alignment of the joint and to help guide treatment decisions.

Treatment depends on the severity of the bunion and the amount of pain it causes. A podiatrist can recommend custom orthotics to improve foot alignment and reduce pressure on the joint. Padding or splints can also help protect the affected area and improve comfort. When the bunion becomes severe and limits daily activities, surgery can correct the position of the joint and relieve pain. Early evaluation allows a podiatrist to monitor changes in the bunion and recommend treatment before the condition becomes more disabling. If you have symptoms of bunions, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, 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?

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?

Podiatrists 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 provider.

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