Point Pleasant
Clubfoot is a congenital condition where a baby’s foot or feet are twisted inward and downward, making them appear abnormal in shape and position. The exact cause of clubfoot is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It may occur when the tendons in the foot are too tight or shortened, causing the foot to rotate. In some cases, it can be associated with other conditions such as spina bifida or cerebral palsy. Symptoms of clubfoot include the foot appearing rotated, with the sole facing inward and the heel pointing downward. The affected foot may be smaller than normal, and the calf muscles may appear underdeveloped. If your child has been born with clubfoot, it is strongly suggested that you include a podiatrist on your healthcare team for effective treatment results.
Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, 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.
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:
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 office located in Point Pleasant, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Cracked heels are a common foot condition that can lead to discomfort and even pain if left untreated. They often develop when the skin surrounding the heels becomes dry and thick, leading to splits or fissures. Prolonged standing on hard surfaces can put extra pressure on the feet, causing the skin to expand and crack. As people age, their skin loses moisture and elasticity, making it more prone to dryness. Wearing open-heeled shoes or sandals exposes the heels to air and friction, which can further dry out the skin. Obesity can also contribute to cracked heels, as the increased weight places added pressure on the heel area. Cracked heels can be uncomfortable, and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, 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.
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.
How Do You Get Them?
Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.
Promote Healing
Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.
Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.
Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.
Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin.
Change in Diet
Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.
Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.
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.
Ankle injuries are a frequent concern for volleyball players, with lateral ankle sprains being the most common. These ankle injuries often happen when a player lands awkwardly on the outer edge of the foot, especially after jumping near the net and coming down on another player's foot. This motion can stretch or tear the ligaments on the outside of the ankle. When the stabilizing muscles cannot absorb the impact, the joint becomes vulnerable. Repeated ankle sprains can weaken the joint over time, increasing the risk of chronic pain, joint instability, or arthritis. Depending on the severity, symptoms range from mild soreness and swelling to a complete ligament tear, which can cause bruising, pain, and the inability to bear weight. A podiatrist can perform a thorough exam of your ankle to determine the grade of the sprain and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include bracing or surgery, in more severe cases. If you have injured your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.
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. Alan J. Spector from Shore Podiatry. 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:
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 Point Pleasant, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
Plantar warts are small, rough growths that develop on the soles of the feet due to infection with the human papillomavirus. They often appear on weight-bearing areas such as the heels or balls of the feet, sometimes causing discomfort or pain when walking. The virus enters the skin through tiny cuts or abrasions, making public places like around swimming pools, locker rooms, and communal showers common sources of exposure. Walking barefoot in these areas increases the risk of infection. Weakened immune function may also make some people more susceptible. Plantar warts can sometimes develop in clusters, known as mosaic warts, which are more difficult to treat. Plantar warts can be painful and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have developed this foot condition, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment methods.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Alan J. Spector from Shore Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
About Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.
While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.
Symptoms
Treatment
To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.
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.
Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, typically between the toes. It causes itching, burning, redness, and peeling or cracking skin. In severe cases, blisters may form, leading to pain and discomfort. Athlete’s foot is caused by fungi thriving in warm, damp environments like locker rooms, around swimming pools, or sweaty shoes. To prevent athlete’s foot, it is important to keep your feet clean and dry, especially between the toes. Change socks regularly, wear breathable shoes, and avoid walking barefoot in public places. Antifungal powders or sprays can help keep the feet dry and reduce the risk of infection. A podiatrist can treat athlete's foot with prescription antifungal medications and provide guidance on proper foot hygiene. They can also offer advice on footwear and recommend lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of recurrence. If you are continuously dealing with athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment methods, which may include prescribed medication.
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. Alan J. Spector from Shore Podiatry. 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
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 Point Pleasant, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
