Cracked heels can develop into fissures that become both painful and potentially dangerous. A fissure is a deep crack in the skin of the heel, usually caused by a lack of moisturization. Some conditions can contribute to the formation of heel fissures, including living in a dry climate, frequently wearing open-backed shoes, walking barefoot, and being overweight. Certain underlying medical problems, such as diabetes and hypothyroidism, also may be causes of heel fissures. Because open crevices in the skin can invite bacterial infection, it is essential to deal with heel fissures as soon as possible. Applying good-quality moisture creams or lotions several times a day and covering the feet with socks can speed up the healing process. People with diabetes, poor circulation, or auto-immune deficiency would be wise to consult a podiatrist for help with eliminating heel fissures in a safe and timely fashion. 

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

When an individual breaks a bone in their feet, they will develop a condition that is known as a fractured foot. A fractured, or broken, foot can make it significantly difficult to put weight on the foot, and a patient may experience pain or discomfort. Often, patients with a fractured foot want to know if they are able to wear their normal shoes or when it is appropriate to do so. Unfortunately, there is no definite or universal answer to this question, as each case of fractured feet is highly specific and unique to each individual. However, as a general rule, someone who fractures their foot might have to wear some kind of medical boot or cast on the affected foot for some time after an injury. During this time, it might not be advisable to wear normal shoes. Although recovery time may vary from case to case, generally, foot fractures may take a few months to fully heal. To get treatment for a fractured foot, contact a podiatrist today.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry Associates. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Holmdel and Middletown, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A rash that develops on the foot may be athlete’s foot. It is an uncomfortable condition that is found between the toes and on the bottom of the foot, and severe itching is a common symptom. Additionally, the skin may turn red, and small blisters can be seen. Athlete’s foot is caused by a fungus that lives in warm environments, such as shower room floors and public swimming pools. It can enter the body through small cracks in the skin, and it is suggested to wear appropriate shoes while in these areas. These can consist of flip-flops or water shoes, and walking barefoot is frowned upon. There are three categories of athlete’s foot which can slightly differ. Peeling or cracked skin that is found between the fourth and fifth toes may indicate a toe web infection has developed. A moccasin-type infection may start with a sore foot, then followed by the skin becoming thick. Blisters that are on the sole of the foot may be the beginning of a vesicular infection and may travel to other parts of the foot. If you are afflicted with any type of athlete's foot, please consult with a podiatrist who can prescribe the necessary medication for complete healing.

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 one of our podiatrists from Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry Associates.  Our doctors 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

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

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 one of our offices located in Holmdel and Middletown, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Chemotherapy is a way in which modern science has enabled doctors to treat cancer patients. Essentially, chemotherapy is a way to kill cancer cells that grow and multiply in the body rapidly. Chemotherapy is associated with many different changes in the body, and one of those changes is a noticeable difference in the health of the nails. For example, chemotherapy can sometimes be associated with toenail fungus. Pre-existing nail fungus, like that common to the toenails, can exacerbate nail changes produced by chemotherapy. Importantly, sometimes chemotherapy can induce changes to the nails that then can lead to the development of some kind of toenail fungus. If you are someone who is living with cancer, it is important to understand the effects chemotherapy can have on the health of your toenails. A podiatrist can help you navigate these potential effects on your feet.  

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Holmdel and Middletown, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Hyperhidrosis of the feet is simply defined as a condition that can cause an individual to sweat excessively in the feet area. The sweating can be so severe that the feet even slip around in the shoes due to the excessive moisture. Due to the constant sweat on the feet, hyperhidrosis can make the feet more susceptible to infection. Hyperhidrosis of the feet might be linked to some kind of anxiety. If an individual has a particular kind of anxiety disorder, a common symptom that might manifest itself is sweaty feet. This can be linked to anxiety because sweating due to nervous feelings can often lead to a vicious cycle where an individual stresses about their sweating, causing more sweating. If you are someone that struggles with anxiety and sweating, consider reaching out to a podiatrist today. This foot specialist will be able to help you address any problems you have with hyperhidrosis.

If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact one of our podiatrists of Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

Hyperhidrosis of the Feet

Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.

Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.

Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.

In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.

A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.

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

Choosing running shoes that fit well can be a daunting task. It can help to decide what kind of running is desired and find shoes that are a match. There are various types of running surfaces, including trails, roads, and treadmills. In addition to that, it is beneficial for the running style to be considered which can be racing, casual, or long-distance. Shoes that are made for road running often have extra cushioning and must be able to handle running on a hard surface. Trail running requires shoes that have more traction than other shoes and this can make it easier to run on dirt, mud, or rocks. Many people choose to wear lighter shoes if treadmill running is their style. This lighter type of shoe may have less cushioning. To ensure a proper fit for any type of running the foot must be accurately measured. This is done by combining the width of the shoe, the heel fit, and the instep. If you would like additional information about how to choose the right running shoes, please consult with a podiatrist.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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

Peripheral neuropathy can cause a numbing and tingling sensation in the legs and feet. It is defined as nerve damage and it affects approximately half of diabetic patients. The nerves can become impaired as a result of elevated glucose and triglyceride levels that are found in the blood, which can lead to the small blood vessels that help to nourish the nerves being compromised. Common symptoms that are associated with neuropathy can include a burning, numbing, or tingling sensation in the feet and it is often difficult to walk. There may be a natural change in gait, or walking style, to compensate for these sensations. Balance may also be affected and the feet can appear swollen. It is helpful to learn about neuropathy prevention techniques, which can include monitoring glucose, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels. If you are afflicted with neuropathy, please consult with a podiatrist who can confirm this condition and guide you toward the correct treatment methods

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

The importance of practicing everyday foot care is crucial for people who have diabetes. This can begin by washing and drying the feet thoroughly, followed by inspecting the bottom of the feet by using a mirror. If a family member or caregiver is available, they can also help with this. Neuropathy is a common condition for diabetic patients to develop and this is a nerve disorder that causes the inability to feel existing cuts or scrapes on the feet. If these cuts do not receive the prompt medical attention they need, they can become infected and ultimately lead to a diabetic foot ulcer. It is beneficial to properly trim the toenails weekly as this may help to prevent a painful ingrown toenail from developing. Additionally, it is suggested that diabetic patients always wear shoes and socks as well as frequently elevate the legs to help increase circulation. Diabetic patients are urged to be under the care of a podiatrist who can treat and manage this condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

You don’t need to be an athlete to sprain an ankle. It can happen to anyone, simply by landing wrong when stepping down on a curb or staircase. However, those who play court games or team sports are far more likely to incur this type of injury. The majority of ankle sprains occur when the foot rolls inward, thereby overstretching the ligament on the outer side of the ankle. There are three main grades of an ankle sprain, which is caused by the overstretching or tearing of the lateral ligament that helps hold the ankle in place. In a Grade 1 sprain, only a few tissue fibers are torn. With a Grade 2 sprain, a far larger amount of tissue is torn. A Grade 3 sprain is a complete tear, or rupture, of the ligament. With a mild sprain, home treatment for a period of time may reduce the pain and allow the ligament to heal. However, if a sprain makes bearing weight difficult or impossible, it is wise to visit a podiatrist for a full diagnosis and suggested treatment plan.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry Associates. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Holmdel and Middletown, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.