Plantar fasciitis is a common reason for long-lasting heel pain. It can affect both active, young people and older people who do not move as much. This condition happens when the plantar fascia, a band of tissue in the foot, is repeatedly strained. It is often linked to tight calf muscles. Podiatrists can generally diagnose this condition by talking to the patient and examining their foot. They only use imaging tests if the case is unusual or does not get better with initial treatment. The main symptom is a sore heel, especially when taking the first steps in the morning or after sitting for a while. Treatment involves changing activities and stretching the calf and foot. Special shoe inserts that support and cushion the heel can also help. If pain continues after six months, podiatrists may suggest less invasive treatments or even surgery. These treatments help the body heal itself or relieve pain. However, some injections, while they reduce pain, could also weaken the foot tissue. Surgery options involve releasing tension in the calf or making small cuts in the plantar fascia to encourage healing. If you have chronic plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine what the best treatment options are for you.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Rosa Roman from Ankle and Foot 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 one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

Onychomycosis, commonly known as a fungal nail infection, unveils itself as a subtle yet persistent condition that warrants attention. This ailment occurs when fungi, often dermatophytes, yeast, or molds, invade the toenails, leading to a range of symptoms. The definition lies in the gradual discoloration, thickening, and distortion of the affected nails. Diagnosing onychomycosis involves a careful examination by a podiatrist who may analyze nail samples under a microscope or through a culture to identify the causative fungi. The condition, often exacerbated by warm, moist environments, compromised immunity, or pre-existing nail injuries, can be challenging to eradicate. Early detection and prompt intervention are vital for effective management. Understanding the nuances of onychomycosis empowers individuals to seek timely medical assistance, initiating targeted treatments and preventive measures for healthier, fungus-free nails. If you have developed toenail fungus, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you successful treatment options in addition to effective preventive methods.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Rosa Roman of Ankle and Foot Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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

Teenagers often develop foot blisters due to friction, which can be the result of wearing new or ill-fitting shoes, engaging in high-intensity activities, or having sweaty feet. The best way to manage these blisters is to keep them clean with gentle soap and water and to protect them with a sterile bandage or specialized blister plaster that can cushion the area and soak up excess moisture. It is crucial not to pop blisters, as the skin covering them acts as a protective barrier against infection. Should a blister break on its own, the area should be cleaned, an antibiotic ointment applied, and then re-covered with a clean bandage. Ensuring footwear fits correctly and socks are moisture-wicking will help prevent further irritation. In cases where blisters are particularly painful, keep reoccurring, or show signs of infection, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide additional treatment and prevention strategies.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Rosa Roman of Ankle and Foot Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often 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.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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

Gout is a form of arthritis characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in the joints. It typically affects the joint at the base of the big toe, but other joints can also be involved. Gout is caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the affected joint, which leads to inflammation and excruciating pain. While gout can affect anyone, it predominantly targets men, especially those over the age of 30. Women become more susceptible after menopause. Individuals with a family history of gout are at a higher risk, as genetics can play a significant role. Lifestyle factors such as a diet rich in purine-containing foods that include red meat, seafood, and alcohol, may significantly contribute to developing gout. Additionally, obesity and high blood pressure also increase the likelihood of getting gout. Understanding the definition and risk factors of gout is vital for timely diagnosis and effective management. If you have gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition, in addition to offering you effective prevention strategies.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Rosa Roman from Ankle and Foot Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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