If you need a more accessible version of this website, click this button on the right.Switch to Accessible Site
We are OPEN and following CDC Guidelines

November 2022

Tuesday, 29 November 2022 00:00

Mitigating Foot Pain During Pregnancy

During a woman’s pregnancy, she might experience several different important changes to her feet. For example, the increased weight gained from bearing a growing child can put extra strain on the feet, sometimes causing foot pain. There are several steps that a pregnant woman could consider taking to mitigate her increased foot pain. First, a pregnant woman might drink a good deal of water. Doing this will help reduce the amount of salt in the body, consequently minimizing inflammation in the feet. Also, a pregnant woman could apply ice to the feet if the ankles become exceedingly swollen. Applying ice in short increments to the feet can help bring down the swelling. Lastly, a pregnant woman can make an appointment with a podiatrist to help treat any pain in the feet that she is experiencing. To learn more about mitigating foot pain during pregnancy, make an appointment with a podiatrist today.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Scott Shrem from Garden State Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

  • Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
  • Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
  • Wear shoes with good arch support
  • Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
  • Elevate feet if you experience swelling
  • Massage your feet
  • Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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.

Read more about Pregnancy and Foot Health
Tuesday, 22 November 2022 00:00

Lisfranc Fracture of the Foot

When the midfoot ligament, known as the Lisfranc ligament, is badly bruised, the area above the arch is likely to swell and change in color. Sometimes it is accompanied by a fracture. This can happen when you twist your foot when falling, especially from a great height. Because a Lisfranc fracture is often mistaken for a sprain, it is best to have the injury checked out by a podiatrist. One test used to determine the presence and severity of a Lisfranc fracture is called the piano key test. This is done by moving each toe, one at a time, to see if it causes pain. Another test calls for standing on the tips of the toes and raising the heel. Imaging tests, including X-ray, MRI, and CT scans may be performed as well. A Lisfranc fracture can be treated with rest, a cast, or surgery. Please consult a podiatrist to determine the severity of your injury and receive the proper treatment options for you. 

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, 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.

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 office located in Hazlet, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for a Broken Foot

If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.

Tuesday, 15 November 2022 00:00

Feet and Blood Sugar

As anyone who takes their health seriously undoubtedly knows, the condition of your feet is central to maintaining a healthy, balanced lifestyle. There are many everyday foot care techniques that one may take to care of their feet. One example is by managing your blood sugar levels. When an individual has significantly high blood sugar levels, one’s blood vessels might be negatively impacted. As a result, the blood circulation to the feet can be diminished. This can lead to gangrene or peripheral vascular disease, among other things. Importantly, individuals who suffer from diabetes are very susceptible to experiencing high blood pressure. These individuals might consider being particularly diligent about managing their blood pressure. Consult a podiatrist today for more information.

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 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.

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 office located in Hazlet, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Diabetic Foot Care
Tuesday, 08 November 2022 00:00

Diagnosing a Broken Toe

Although they are relatively small parts of the human body, the toes have different bones that can cause problems when broken. Typically, a broken toe can occur from blunt force trauma or from some kind of stress fracture. If you believe that you have broken your toe, it is best to err on the side of caution and contact a medical professional, such as a podiatrist, to get your injury assessed. It is possible that during this examination the podiatrist will ask you specific questions about the injury. It is also possible that an X-ray examination may be conducted. Besides an X-ray, a medical professional might similarly perform bone scans, an MRI, or a CT scan. This is done to give the practitioner a better sense of the underlying injury and how it affected the bones in the toes. If you suspect a broken toe, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today. 

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Scott Shrem from Garden State Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Throbbing pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising on the skin and toenail
  • The inability to move the toe
  • Toe appears crooked or disfigured
  • Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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.

Read more about What to Know About a Broken Toe
Tuesday, 01 November 2022 00:00

Finding the Right Activity Shoes for Seniors

Many health experts suggest that exercising is essential for older adults, because the tendency to become sedentary can contribute to a physical, as well as emotional,  decline. Building strength, flexibility, endurance, and balance are among the activities recommended for older adults. However, seniors also must take care of their feet while engaging in physical activities that call for standing and walking. First, it’s essential to choose footwear that is made for the type of activity taking place. It is also suggested that footwear should have non-skid flat soles and a cushioned arch that is not too thin or too thick. Additionally, shoes should have adequate heel support and a roomy toe box. Fit is also important when selecting activity footwear. Be sure to have your feet measured properly before buying them, as foot size tends to change with age. Keeping track of the wear and tear on your footwear is a must. Replace shoes when the tread wears out, or if your feet begin to ache or feel tired after exercising. For additional information on finding the right shoes for your activity, please consult a podiatrist.

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Scott Shrem from Garden State Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

  • Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
  • Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
  • Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
  • Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
  • Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

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.

Read more about Proper Shoe Fitting
Connect with us

          New Jersey Doctor