August 2018

If you find you are experiencing heel pain throughout the day, especially in the morning, you may have a foot condition that is referred to as plantar fasciitis. Tenderness in the heel, a tingling sensation, or limping, are among the symptoms of plantar fasciitis. This condition develops as a result of the plantar fascia becoming torn, which may often be due to excessive strain the foot endures during physical activity. When this band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot becomes injured, patients will most likely feel intense heel pain. It’s important to have a proper diagnosis performed, and this may be accomplished by undergoing an MRI in addition to a physical examination. There are many treatment options available, and it’s suggested to schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can choose the best one for you.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Scott Shrem  from Garden State Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Many people experience the feeling of their feet “falling asleep” after an extended period of inactivity. This feeling is the result of prolonged pressure on the nerves or blood vessels that supply them. However, once the pressure is gone, the sensation immediately disappears. This entire process is commonly referred to as having poor circulation in the feet. If you are looking to “wake up your feet” when they fall asleep, one of the best ways to do so is by giving them a massage. Massages help stimulate your nerves and muscles while improving circulation. The massage should be done by using warm olive oil and using circular motions to rub your feet. Another way to wake up your feet is to soak a cloth in warm water and apply it to your feet. This will help increase blood flow to the area and nerves. If you are struggling with poor circulation in your feet, it will help to speak with a podiatrist to determine the best treatment method for you.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Scott Shrem of Garden State Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

Foot ulcers may develop as a result of poorly managed diabetes. The skin will typically disintegrate, and the layers underneath will become exposed. Common areas on the foot where this condition may develop include the balls of the feet and under the big toe. In patients with severe foot ulcers, the bones of the feet may often become affected and may generally produce pain and discomfort. Research has shown the importance in keeping as much weight as possible off of your feet; this reportedly prevents further infections from developing. Wearing shoe inserts or diabetic shoes may be beneficial in providing additional protection the feet may need for proper healing. If you are afflicted with a foot ulcer, please consult with a podiatrist for information on correct  treatment remedies.

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 Dr. Scott Shrem from Garden State Foot & Ankle Center. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Hazlet, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.