Items filtered by date: October 2024

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is caused by fungi that invade the nail bed, leading to thick, discolored, and brittle nails. Symptoms often include yellow or white streaks under the nail, a foul smell, and in severe cases, pain or detachment of the nail. Thickened toenails can also result from trauma, poor circulation, or other medical conditions. If you notice significant discoloration, pain, or the nail lifting from the bed, it is important to consult a podiatrist, as persistent or severe infections often require medical attention. This type of doctor can provide prescription antifungal medications or recommend laser therapy, depending on the severity of the condition. If you have toenail fungus or thick toenails, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a comprehensive evaluation and effective treatment options.

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 Wendy K. Stinson, DPM of New Jersey. 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 Parsippany-Troy Hills, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Sever's disease, or calcaneal apophysitis, is a condition that affects active children, particularly those aged nine to 13 who participate in running or jumping sports. It occurs when the growth plate at the back of the heel becomes inflamed, leading to heel pain during physical activity. This condition is often caused by repetitive stress on the heel, resulting from activities like running, basketball, or gymnastics. Symptoms include tenderness, swelling, and pain that worsens with activity but improves with rest. Treatment often involves custom orthotics or supportive footwear which may be recommended to help alleviate pressure on the heel. Stretching exercises for the calf muscles can also provide relief. If your child is experiencing heel pain or has difficulty participating in sports, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to ensure proper diagnosis and an effective treatment plan.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Wendy K. Stinson, DPM from New Jersey. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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

A broken foot can be both painful and debilitating. Common symptoms include intense pain that worsens with movement, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. You might also notice deformity or an unusual angle of the foot. In some cases, there may be a visible break through the skin, indicating a more severe fracture. Treatment for a broken foot typically involves immobilization, often with a cast or splint, to allow the bones to heal properly, and mild pain relievers can help manage discomfort. In more severe fractures, surgery may be required to realign the bones and stabilize the foot with screws or plates. If you suspect you have a broken foot or experience persistent foot pain, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. This type of doctor can provide an accurate diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment plan to ensure a smooth recovery.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Wendy K. Stinson, DPM from New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

A foot stress fracture occurs due to repetitive stress or overuse, often from activities like running or jumping. This type of fracture develops when the foot’s bones are subjected to excessive force, leading to tiny cracks that gradually worsen. Common symptoms include localized pain that intensifies with activity, swelling, and tenderness at the site of the fracture. The affected area might also become bruised or stiff. Diagnosing a foot stress fracture involves a thorough physical examination and imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans which can reveal the extent of the injury and rule out other conditions. If you have endured a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist  who can accurately diagnose and treat foot stress fractures.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Wendy K. Stinson, DPM from New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that extends from the heel bone to the toes. This injury often results from repetitive strain, such as from running or sudden increases in physical activity. Prolonged standing, exercising on hard surfaces, and wearing poorly fitting or unsupportive shoes can also contribute to damage. Individuals with flat feet, high arches, are overweight, or are over the age of 40, as well as those with previous foot or ankle injuries, are at higher risk for developing plantar fasciitis. Symptoms typically include heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. Effective management and treatment are key to alleviate pain and prevent further issues. If you are experiencing foot pain or suspect plantar fasciitis, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Wendy K. Stinson, DPM  from New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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