May 2024

Foot injuries are a common occurrence in fitness facilities, often the result of crush injuries from free weights, falls, or awkward landings during exercise classes. These injuries can range from minor sprains to more severe fractures, impacting one's ability to maintain an active lifestyle. Prevention techniques play a critical role in reducing the risk of foot injuries. Properly warming up and stretching before exercise sessions can enhance flexibility and prevent strains. Wearing appropriate footwear with adequate support and cushioning is essential to absorb shock and protect the feet from impact. Additionally, maintaining good form and technique during exercises can help minimize the risk of falls and accidents. If you have sustained a foot injury while working out at a fitness center, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment. This will help with a speedy recovery and encourage you to return safely to your fitness routine.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, 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.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains 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 and ankle needs.

Athlete's foot, a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, is especially common among people who frequent damp, warm areas where the fungus thrives. These often include public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. The infection spreads easily through direct contact with contaminated surfaces. Wearing tight-fitting, closed-toe shoes can increase the risk, as the warm, moist environment is ideal for fungal growth. People who sweat excessively may be more prone to the infection due to increased moisture levels. Sharing towels, shoes, or socks with someone who has athlete's foot can also transmit the fungus. To reduce the risk of contracting athlete's foot, wearing moisture-wicking socks, using antifungal powders or sprays, and maintaining dry feet are often suggested. Regular foot hygiene and avoiding direct contact with potentially contaminated surfaces are also key preventive measures. If you suspect you have athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and care.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Scott Shrem from Garden State Foot & Ankle Center.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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.

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, can manifest in various parts of the body, including the feet, where early detection is vital for effective management and prevention of complications. One common sign of RA in the feet is joint stiffness, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity, which can make walking and movement uncomfortable. Swelling and tenderness in the affected joints, often accompanied by warmth and redness, are also indicative of RA. Deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, and claw toes may develop as the condition progresses, altering the foot's structure and causing further discomfort. Additionally, RA can lead to nodules or lumps under the skin, typically around pressure points like the heels or toes. Changes in gait or difficulty in walking due to foot pain and stiffness are further indications of RA involvement. If you are experiencing symptoms of RA that are affecting your feet, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer you relief and treatment strategies.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Dr. Scott Shrem of Garden State Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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.

Foot blisters can cause discomfort and inconvenience, particularly for individuals who spend long hours on their feet. These fluid filled sacs often develop as a result of friction, heat, or pressure on the skin. One of the primary signs of a blister is a raised, fluid-filled bump on the skin's surface, which may be painful or tender to the touch. Blisters can occur due to wearing ill-fitting shoes, excessive moisture, or repetitive movements that cause rubbing or chafing. Additionally, activities such as running, hiking, or wearing new shoes for extended periods can increase the risk of blister formation. Certain medical conditions, such as eczema or athlete's foot, can also predispose individuals to blisters. Foot blisters can be bothersome and may become infected. If this pertains to you, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can determine the cause and effectively treat blisters on the feet.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, 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.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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.