Orthotics are specially designed devices that help rehabilitate foot and ankle conditions by providing support, alignment, and pressure relief. Orthotics can help by redistributing weight, improving posture, and correcting abnormal foot mechanics. Conditions such as plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and Achilles tendonitis can benefit from orthotics as they help to reduce pain and prevent further injury. Orthotics can also aid in recovery after ankle sprains by stabilizing the joint and supporting proper movement. By promoting better foot alignment, orthotics can relieve strain on the muscles, ligaments, and tendons, allowing them to heal more effectively. It is essential to consult with a podiatrist to ensure the right type of orthotic is chosen for specific conditions. With consistent use, orthotics can help restore function, alleviate discomfort, and prevent long-term damage to the foot and ankle. If you are suffering from a foot or ankle condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if custom orthotics can help you.

If you are experiencing discomfort in your feet and would like to try custom orthotics, 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.

What Are Custom Orthotics?

Custom orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain. 

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Shoe inserts come in a wide variety and are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality, custom inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you're experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibility of using custom orthotics or shoe inserts. A podiatrist can determine which type of custom orthotic or shoe insert is right for you and help you take the first steps toward being pain-free.

If you have any questions please 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.

Sever's disease is a common condition that causes heel pain in growing children, particularly those active in sports. The growth plate in the heel bone, known as the calcaneus, becomes irritated due to repetitive stress. This condition typically affects children between the ages of eight and fourteen during rapid growth. The primary symptom of Sever's disease is pain in the heel that can worsen with activity and improve with rest. Swelling or tenderness may also be present surrounding the heel area. Risk factors of Sever's disease include participating in high-impact sports like soccer and basketball and having tight calf muscles or flat feet. Rest, stretching, and supportive footwear may help alleviate symptoms. If your child has heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for proper treatment.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry Associates. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Holmdel and Middletown, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

Hammertoes, a deformity where the toe bends upward at the middle toe joint, can cause significant discomfort. When conservative treatments fail, surgery may provide lasting relief. Several surgical options are based on the flexibility of the affected joint, often in the second toe. Tendon transfer surgery is often used for a flexible hammertoe, where tendons are repositioned to straighten the toe and restore balance. For rigid hammertoes, surgery involves cutting tendons and ligaments, sometimes removing part of the bone, and stabilizing the toe with temporary pins. Fusion surgery may also be performed, which removes parts of the joint to allow bones to fuse together, resulting in a straighter, more stable toe. In severe cases, amputation may be considered, but this is rare and typically reserved for extreme pain when no other treatments work. A podiatrist can assess the type and severity of a hammertoe to determine the most appropriate surgical approach to relieve pain and restore foot function. If you are experiencing pain from a hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work 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 care needs.

Caring for a cut on the foot is important to prevent infection and promote healing. First, clean the wound gently with mild soap and water to remove any dirt or debris. Apply a clean, sterile bandage to cover the cut and protect it from further injury or bacteria. It is essential to keep the area clean and dry to avoid complications. If the cut is deep or does not stop bleeding after applying pressure, seek attention from a podiatrist promptly. Mild antibiotic ointment can be applied to prevent infection, but be sure to change the bandage daily and monitor for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or pus. Resting the foot and avoiding putting too much pressure on the wound can also aid in the healing process. If you have a cut on the foot or any type of foot wound, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can effectively treat foot wounds.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, 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.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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.

An Achilles heel spur is a bony growth that develops on the heel bone, typically where the Achilles tendon attaches. It is often the result of repeated stress or strain on the tendon, leading to the formation of extra bone in the area. Common causes include overuse, wearing poor footwear, or activities that put excessive pressure on the heel like running and jumping. Individuals with tight calf muscles or an abnormal gait may also be at higher risk. Symptoms of an Achilles heel spur are pain and tenderness at the back of the heel, particularly when walking, running, or standing for long periods. In some cases, swelling and a visible bump may appear on the heel. If you have developed this type of heel spur, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat various types of heel spurs.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact one of our offices located in Holmdel and Middletown, NJ . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, and both orthotics and non-surgical treatments can offer relief. Orthotics, custom-designed shoe inserts, provide structured support for the foot, helping to distribute pressure evenly and reduce strain on the plantar fascia. This targeted approach can alleviate pain and prevent further injury by correcting biomechanical imbalances. Other non-surgical treatments, such as stretching exercises and anti-inflammatory medications, aim to reduce inflammation, improve flexibility, and enhance overall foot function. While orthotics offer immediate support, other non-surgical treatments often require more time and consistency to yield results. If you have plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can explain the benefits of custom-made orthotics.

If you are experiencing discomfort in your feet and would like to try custom orthotics, 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.

What Are Custom Orthotics?

Custom orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain. 

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Shoe inserts come in a wide variety and are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality, custom inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you're experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibility of using custom orthotics or shoe inserts. A podiatrist can determine which type of custom orthotic or shoe insert is right for you and help you take the first steps toward being pain-free.

If you have any questions please 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.

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, or CMT, is a genetic condition that primarily impacts the peripheral nerves, which connect the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. This condition often begins to affect the feet and lower legs first, with symptoms typically starting between the ages of 5 and 15. People with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease may experience high-arched feet, flat feet, hammertoes, muscle weakness in the lower legs, foot drop, and a distinctive high-stepping gait to avoid tripping. Over time, these issues can lead to muscle wasting in the legs, which creates challenges with walking and balance. A podiatrist plays a key role in managing the symptoms of this incurable condition by providing specialized care for foot deformities and gait issues. This may include custom orthotics to support the feet, recommendations for proper footwear, or bracing to improve stability and mobility. Such interventions can enhance a person’s quality of life and reduce discomfort associated with CMT. If you believe you have symptoms of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to help manage this condition.

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.

An ankle fracture affects more than just physical mobility. It can have psychological and social impacts too. Physically, an ankle fracture often requires immobilization, leading to muscle weakness, joint stiffness, and challenges with weight-bearing even after healing. Recovery may take months, with targeted exercises needed to regain strength. Psychologically, the prolonged healing process and limited independence may lead to frustration, anxiety, and even depression, especially for active individuals. Fear of re-injury can also affect confidence. Socially, disrupted routines and limited participation in work or hobbies may cause feelings of isolation. If you have sustained an ankle fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible. This foot and ankle expert can guide you, focusing on both physical and emotional support, to make recovery smoother and help you regain a balanced, active lifestyle post-injury.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, 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 Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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.