Items filtered by date: April 2023

A common congenital foot condition is known as clubfoot. It is a birth defect that causes the infant’s foot to turn inward, forcing the bottom of the foot to face sideways. It happens during pregnancy and is a result of shortened tendons in the legs. Clubfoot is divided into two categories, and isolated clubfoot can also be referred to as idiopathic clubfoot, which is the most common type. Non-isolated clubfoot may be associated with additional health problems such as spina bifida or other defects of the brain. Research has shown clubfoot is caused by genetics or environmental factors, and the chances of this developing may increase with baby boys. Additionally, pregnant moms who smoke may double the chances of having a child that is born with clubfoot. This condition is generally diagnosed during pregnancy by having an ultrasound performed, which can help the parents to decide on a treatment when the baby is born. If you have determined your unborn child may have this condition, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can examine your child soon after birth and help you to decide on a successful treatment method.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Mercer Ocean Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Hamilton, Toms River, and Plainsboro Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Generally speaking, a blister that develops on the foot is not a serious condition. Occasionally, a blister that pops prematurely may lead to an infection developing, and there are effective methods that can be done to prevent this. A blister is defined as a small bubble that naturally forms over damaged skin, and is filled with protective liquid. When new skin forms, the blister will gradually drain, which is the body’s natural healing response. A blister on the foot can happen for various reasons, the most common being excess friction that is caused by the shoes and socks that are worn. There may also be existing medical conditions that can cause blisters, which can include eczema and psoriasis. Blisters on the feet may be prevented by dusting talcum powder in the socks if sweating is severe, and it is beneficial to wear shoes that fit well. If you have blisters on your feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can treat them if necessary, and guide you toward additional prevention techniques.

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 one of our podiatrists of Mercer Ocean Podiatry. Our doctors 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 offices located in Hamilton, Toms River, and Plainsboro Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ledderhose disease, also known as plantar fibromatosis, is rare and impacts the bottom of the feet. This disease presents as a buildup of connective tissue in the feet, which forms into lumps or nodules on the fascia located on the sole of the foot. The fascia is a connective tissue that runs from the heel bone to the toes, and when it thickens, it can form nodules, which may be painless at first and, over time, may cause discomfort and pain. The skin may tighten, there might be itching and stinging in the surrounding area, and pain in the foot and ankle joints can develop. The cause of this ailment is not known. However, some believe that it is caused by genetics or environmental factors. Risk factors include regular alcohol consumption, liver disease, and diabetes. It most often strikes those in middle or older age and is more common in men than women. Treatment of Ledderhose disease depends on its severity. It is suggested that if you develop such nodules in your feet, you contact a podiatrist for an examination, diagnosis and healing options that are right for you.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Mercer Ocean Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Hamilton, Toms River, and Plainsboro Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
 

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis where too much uric acid in the body causes sharp crystals to form in joints. Uric acid forms when the body breaks down chemical compounds called purines. Purines are naturally produced by the body, and they also come from the foods we eat. Foods higher in purines include animal organ products, certain seafood, soda with fructose, and alcohol. Gout can cause pain, redness, and swelling in and around the joints of the feet. It is particularly common in the big toe. While gout typically affects adults, it can also happen to children. Pediatric gout is rare, more common in males, and is usually linked to underlying medical conditions, including obesity, Down syndrome, and congenital heart disease. If your child is complaining of big toe pain, it is strongly suggested that you take them to a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Mercer Ocean Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Hamilton, Toms River, and Plainsboro Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.