A common symptom of pregnancy that many women experience is swollen ankles. This can happen as a result of the growing fetus, and may become worse in the warmer weather. Additionally, it can be uncomfortable as the pregnancy progresses, and relief may be found when specific lifestyle changes are implemented. These can include drinking plenty of fresh water daily, frequently elevating the feet, and it may help to sleep on the left side. Many women find that it may help to refrain from crossing the legs, in addition to exercising, and performing specific stretches. If you would like more information about how pregnancy affects the feet and ankles, please consult with a podiatrist.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the 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 needs.

The most common reason corns on the feet develop is excess friction that is caused by the shoes that are worn. They are defined as small, hardened areas of skin that can form in different areas of the foot. A soft corn will develop between the toes, and can cause severe discomfort. Wearing shoes that are too tight may lead to having a soft corn. Hard corns can form on the outside of the pinky toe, and seed corns are often found on the bottom of the foot. Many corns will dissolve when the shoes that are worn fit properly, and it may help to wear thick socks which can absorb excess pressure. If you have corns on your feet, please speak with a podiatrist who can identify and treat this painful foot condition.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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.

Onychomycosis is a common type of fungal infection that can affect the toenails. Infected toenails may become discolored, brittle, or thickened, and can crumble, crack, or separate from the skin over time. Toenail fungus is usually not painful, but can be uncomfortable and unsightly. It is also highly contagious and can spread from one nail to another and from person to person. There are several treatments available for onychomycosis. Over-the-counter and prescription topical treatments, such as medicated nail polishes and creams, are applied directly to the surface of infected nails. Oral antifungal medications are often prescribed for more severe infections, but may cause side effects that require close monitoring. In some cases, removing the infected nail may be suggested. For more information about toenail fungus, please consult with a podiatrist. 

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 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.

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

A bunion is a bony growth that forms on the base of the big toe joint. This growth can cause deformities in the structure of the foot, forming a bump on the side of the big toe and pushing the big toe out of alignment and towards the smaller toes. There are both surgical and nonsurgical methods for treating bunions. Bunion surgery is usually suggested in severe cases and can consist of removing damaged tissue or parts of the bone, realigning the bones, or permanently joining the bones to straighten the toe and remove the deformity. Nonsurgical or conservative treatment methods usually work well in milder cases and can help manage bunion symptoms and prevent the bunion from worsening. These include wearing roomy, comfortable shoes or orthotic inserts, applying ice to the bunion, and taking over-the-counter pain medications to reduce inflammation. If you have bunions and are wondering which treatments may work for you, please consult with a podiatrist. 

If you are suffering from bunions, 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.

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 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 majority of ballet dancers understand the importance of properly stretching the feet before a dance recital. Proper balance is achieved when there is adequate strength and flexibility, and this is often accomplished by performing simple stretches. An effective stretch can consist of placing one foot over the opposite thigh while sitting on the floor, and pushing into the heel with your hand until a gentle stretch is felt. This is one of several stretches that can keep the flexibility that is needed for graceful ballet dancing. If you would like additional information about how to safely perform foot stretches that may help to enhance your dance routine, please confer with a podiatrist.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with 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.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

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.

Plantar fasciitis, a common overuse injury that results in inflammation of the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot, can be a very painful and persistent ailment. The most common symptom of plantar fasciitis is intense heel pain that is usually at its worst upon taking your first steps in the morning. Without treatment, plantar fasciitis can worsen over time and can cause foot pain that interferes with daily activities. Full recovery from plantar fasciitis can take between 6 to 8 weeks, and in some cases may take several months. Treatments for this condition are typically conservative and involve resting and icing the foot, modifying your activities and footwear, and taking anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain. If you have plantar fasciitis, please seek the care of a podiatrist.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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 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 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.

Running is great exercise, but it can also take a toll on your feet. To keep your feet healthy while you run, it is important to wear the right shoes. You want your shoes to fit snuggly, but to have about a half inch gap between your longest toes and the end of your shoes. Go shoe shopping later in the day or after a run, when feet are at their largest, and wear the shoes around the store to determine if they are right for you. Your foot structure and biomechanics may also be a consideration when shoe shopping. People with flat feet, high arches, or an abnormal gait will want to look for running shoes that reduce the impact of these issues. For more information about choosing the best running shoes for you, 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.

Tendons, blood vessels, and nerves—such as the tibial nerve which provides feeling and mobility in the foot—travel through the tarsal tunnel in the ankle. When the tibial nerve gets constricted or damaged, Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome can occur. This condition produces tingling or numbness, pain, and a weakening in muscles and various parts of the foot. It can be triggered by swelling, abnormal growths in bones and joints, varicose veins, abnormal arches, and various systemic diseases. A complete recovery is possible if the condition is diagnosed and treated in its early stages. To avoid permanent complications such as pain, numbness, and immobility, it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist who can provide a variety of treatments and therapies.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, 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.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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.