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Foot pain in seniors can signal problems in the feet, toes, or ankles that should not be ignored. Years of walking, weight gain, and wearing shoes with inadequate support often strain the joints and soft tissues. This can lead to sharp pain rather than simple soreness. Stress fractures, persistent heel pain from an inflamed band of tissue beneath the foot, and arthritis can make every step difficult. Nerve damage linked to diabetes can cause tingling, burning, or numbness in the feet. Flare-ups of swelling in the big toe joint can indicate gout. Sudden foot or ankle pain with swelling also can point to a blood clot. A podiatrist can evaluate your feet, order imaging to determine the cause, and prescribe supportive devices, as needed. This foot doctor also can recommend the best course of treatment, from custom inserts to surgery, when required. If you are a senior experiencing foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Alan J. Spector from Shore Podiatry. 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 Point Pleasant, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The foot is a complex structure made of tarsals, metatarsals, and phalanges that work together to support movement and balance. The tarsals form the back of the foot and help create stability for standing and walking. The metatarsals form the middle of the foot and distribute weight evenly with each step. The phalanges are the toe bones that help with push off and balance during movement.  All these parts work in harmony with muscles, tendons, and ligaments to absorb shock and keep the body aligned. When any part is strained or out of balance, pain and mobility issues can develop. A podiatrist can evaluate the structure of the foot, address problems, and recommend treatments that improve comfort and function. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Alan J. Spector from Shore Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

An ingrown toenail often begins with subtle changes that become more uncomfortable over time. Tenderness along one side of the nail may be the first clue, especially if the skin feels sore when pressed or rubbed by a sock or shoe. Redness, swelling, and warmth can follow as the nail edge begins to press into the surrounding skin. Some people notice a feeling of pressure or a small area of firm, irritated tissue that develops near the corner of the nail. Clear or yellow drainage may appear if the skin becomes inflamed. Pain that increases while walking or wearing closed shoes is another sign the problem is progressing. Paying attention to these early changes helps prevent deeper infection and protects overall foot health. If you have persistent pain, swelling, or drainage with an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Alan J. Spector of Shore Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

Tenosynovitis develops when the sheath that surrounds and protects a tendon becomes irritated or swollen, making movement painful and less fluid. Tendons help your feet and ankles bend, flex, and support your weight, so even mild inflammation can make daily activities feel harder than usual. Many people notice tenderness, swelling, or a sense of stiffness that worsens with repeated motion. This condition may appear after overuse, sudden increases in activity, improper shoe support, or health issues that affect joint or tendon health. Because the feet and ankles work constantly, untreated inflammation can progress and limit mobility over time. Early care can ease symptoms and restore proper function with rest, footwear adjustments, and targeted therapies. If you experience ongoing pain, swelling, or difficulty moving comfortably, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Dr. Alan J. Spector of Shore Podiatry. 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
• 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 contact our office located in Point Pleasant, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.