Items filtered by date: January 2024

Caring for your feet is a cornerstone of overall well-being, directly influencing our ability to move and navigate the world with ease. Prioritize cleanliness by washing and thoroughly drying feet daily, safeguarding against infections and discomfort. Choose footwear wisely, opting for pairs that provide proper support, fit well, and allow ample room for toes to move freely. Regularly trim toenails straight across to prevent ingrown toenails and maintain proper foot hygiene. Additionally, embrace moisture management by applying a mild moisturizer to prevent dryness and cracking. Stretching exercises not only promote flexibility but also enhance circulation, supporting optimal foot health. Mindful inspection of feet for any unusual changes, such as swelling, redness, or pain, allows for prompt intervention if issues arise. Finally, prioritize regular physical activity to promote overall circulation and foot health. If you are seeking additional everyday foot care tips, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Scott Amoss, DPM from Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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

Flat feet, a condition where the arches of the feet touch or nearly touch the ground, can be a source of discomfort and may affect daily activities. Understanding the causes and symptoms is vital for those grappling with this common foot ailment. Often, flat feet are hereditary, with genetic factors contributing to the lack of arch development. Tendon or ligament issues, arising from injury or overuse, can also lead to flat feet. Rheumatoid arthritis or conditions impacting the nervous system may alter foot structure, causing the arches to collapse. Symptoms include pain or discomfort along the inner side of the ankle, swelling on the bottom of the feet, and difficulty in standing on tiptoes. Recognizing these signs prompts individuals to seek appropriate interventions, such as wearing supportive footwear or orthotic devices. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you toward effective relief options.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Scott Amoss, DPM from Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists. our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Ankle sprains, a common injury, often result from the foot turning inward, causing pain, swelling, and tenderness, primarily in the outer ankle area. Diagnosis involves clinical evaluation and sometimes X-rays. Treatment for mild sprains includes protection, rest, compression, and elevation along with early weight bearing. Moderate to severe sprains may require immobilization, and severe cases may need surgery. Inversion injuries typically involve the foot turning inward. It can cause tears in the outer ligaments, beginning with the one in front called the anterior talofibular. Conversely, eversion injuries occur when the foot turns outward, and may result in fractures of the inner ankle bone or ligament injuries. Recurrent sprains can increase the risk of future injuries. Clinical evaluation primarily diagnoses ankle sprains, and stress testing helps assess ligament integrity. X-rays are performed if fractures are suspected. If you feel you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Scott Amoss, DPM from Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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

Pickleball, a fusion of ping-pong and tennis, has captivated players of all levels, particularly drawing beginners to its dynamic gameplay. Foot and ankle injuries, prevalent among pickleball players, often stem from muscle strains, ligament sprains, and in some cases broken bones. Notably, seniors over 60 years of age, predominantly male, account for nearly 80 percent of these injuries, often due to undetected underlying health conditions. For those who have been less physically active, easing into pickleball activities is a good way to prevent foot and ankle injuries. Also, incorporating a thorough warm-up routine is paramount, particularly for older players. These exercises may include jogging, jumping jacks, arm circles, shoulder rotations, and leg swings. Coordination drills, like the side-to-side shuffle and cross-step drill, help to enhance agility and reduce the likelihood of sudden movements causing harm. Selecting appropriate gear, including the right footwear for the playing surface, is essential. Specialized shoes for indoor and outdoor play also contribute to injury prevention. Additionally, investing in durable shoes and extra socks can help to prevent blisters and foot injuries. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury as a result of playing pickleball, 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 Scott Amoss, DPM from Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists. 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:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

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 offices located in Whiting and Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion, a common foot deformity, is characterized by the gradual misalignment of the joint at the base of the big toe. This condition results in the enlargement of the joint, causing the big toe to angle toward the other toes. Bunions can lead to discomfort and pain due to the increased pressure on the joint and the rubbing of shoes against the protruding bone. Symptoms often include redness, swelling, and tenderness at the affected site, accompanied by restricted movement of the big toe. Wearing ill-fitting shoes, especially those with a narrow toe box, can exacerbate bunion development. Genetics also play a role, as certain foot structures and inherited tendencies can contribute to bunion formation. If you have a bunion, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can provide you with appropriate relief and treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Scott Amoss, DPM of Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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