September 2022

People who have pain in their big toe may be unaware it can indicate an underlying medical condition. These can include bunions, ingrown toenails, and gout. A bunion is a deformity that is noticeable from the bony lump that forms on the side of the big toe. Gout is a condition that affects the joints in the big toe and can be extremely painful. An ingrown toenail is often noticed by pain in the big toe and can become infected if prompt treatment is not received. Additionally, there may have been an injury that has happened to the metatarsophalangeal, or MTP joint, and this can cause sharp pain in the big toe. It may be difficult to complete daily activities, and larger shoes may need to be purchased. There are several methods to treat toe pain, and it is strongly suggested that you contact a podiatrist to determine the source of your pain.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Scott Shrem of Garden State Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

The importance of taking care of our feet becomes crucial as we age. This may be difficult for elderly people to accomplish, and family members and friends may be of help in checking the bottom of their feet. Older people may lose the feeling in their feet that enables them to notice sensations, which can make it difficult to feel any cuts, scrapes, or bruises. Seniors may develop foot conditions that can be a result of poor circulation, wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, and taking certain types of medications. Additionally, there may be reduced mobility as the aging process occurs, and trimming the toenails may become difficult as the vision changes. One of the first steps in caring for elderly feet consists of washing and drying them thoroughly, followed by applying a good moisturizer. It is beneficial to wear cotton socks, and existing fluid retention may be reduced when the feet are frequently elevated. If you would like more information about how to care for elderly feet, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can guide you toward giving their feet the proper attention.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, 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.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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.

Pregnant women commonly suffer from swollen feet during their last trimester, and it can be quite uncomfortable. It happens as a result of the growing fetus, in addition to blood that has thickened with nutrients that support the baby. The body tends to hold more fluid than usual during pregnancy, and that fluid may travel to the feet by the end of the day. Relief can come from frequently elevating the feet and reducing salt intake from the foods that are eaten. It is beneficial to spend time in cooler temperatures if the pregnancy is in the warmer months, and this may help to reduce swelling in the feet. Additionally, drinking plenty of water daily can have a positive effect on the body, and the feet will feel better when comfortable shoes are worn. If you would like more information about how to help your feet while you are pregnant, please consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking. 

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.

Tendons connect muscles with bones. The Achilles tendon—one of the body’s largest tendons—connects the calf muscles with the heel bone. It is an essential component that facilitates movements, such as walking, jumping and running. Athletes engage the Achilles tendon constantly, which makes them more prone to injuring it through overuse. A common Achilles tendon injury among athletes is Achilles tendonitis. Also known as Achilles tendinopathy, this icondition causes pain and swelling in the tendon above the heel bone and, sometimes, ankle stiffness. Podiatrists are experts at diagnosing and treating Achilles tendonitis and other sports injuries that affect the Achilles tendon. Make an appointment with a podiatrist to have your condition diagnosed and treated properly. Left untreated, Achilles tendonitis may lead to degeneration and tearing of the tendon.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, 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.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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.