Blisters are a common issue for campers, often caused by friction between the skin and ill-fitting shoes or socks. When walking for long distances on uneven terrain, the skin can rub against footwear, leading to irritation and fluid-filled blisters. Sweaty feet or wet socks can increase the risk of blisters by making the skin more vulnerable. While blisters are generally harmless, breaking them can expose the underlying skin to infection, which can cause pain and delay outdoor activities. It is important not to pop a blister, as this increases the chance of bacteria entering the wound. To avoid infection, clean any open blisters thoroughly with soap and water, apply an antiseptic, and cover them with a sterile bandage. If you enjoy camping and have developed a blister that is painful or has become infected, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and prevention tips.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, 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.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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.

Custom orthotics offer a powerful solution for improving foot and ankle function in individuals dealing with various conditions. These specialized devices are designed to correct abnormal foot mechanics, redistribute pressure, and provide optimal support to the arches and heels. By addressing biomechanical imbalances, orthotics alleviate symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and instability, while preventing further damage to joints and tissues. For conditions like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or ankle instability, custom orthotics promote proper alignment and cushioning, enabling better movement and reduced strain during daily activities. Unlike over-the-counter insoles, custom orthotics are crafted to fit your unique foot structure, ensuring precise and effective results. If you are experiencing foot or ankle discomfort, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist.

Discover relief from persistent foot pain with custom orthotics and shoe inserts. If you’re battling heel pain, these personalized solutions offer targeted support, addressing the root causes of discomfort. Customized to your unique biomechanics, these inserts provide stability, alleviating both heel and foot pain. Say goodbye to the agony of every step and hello to a life free from constant foot pain. Invest in your well-being with custom orthotics or shoe inserts ensuring your feet receive the care they deserve. Step confidently, step comfortably – because a pain-free journey begins with the right support. 

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.

Skating can place significant strain on the feet, toes, and ankles, leading to various injuries that impact both recreational and competitive skaters. Foot issues among skaters include pain caused by wearing poorly fitted boots, which may be too tight or too loose. Tight boots can result in pressure points, blisters, and even nerve entrapment, causing pain, tingling, and numbness in the toes. Loose boots, on the other hand, can force skaters to overcompensate by clenching their toes or over tightening laces, potentially leading to foot cramps or circulation problems. Additional injuries include lace bite, where tight laces irritate the top of the foot, and stress fractures in the metatarsal or navicular bones can occur due to repetitive impact from jumps or landings. Swelling around the ankle, such as malleolar bursitis, may also happen from prolonged boot pressure. A podiatrist can assess foot pain, diagnose conditions caused by skating, and recommend treatments such as orthotics, padding, or surgery, if necessary. If you have foot problems after skating, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, 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.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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.

Diagnosing a foot stress fracture requires a thorough evaluation by a podiatrist to identify the source of pain. Patients are typically asked about their medical history, including any past fractures, current medications, and daily activities that may contribute to repetitive stress on the feet, toes, or ankles. A podiatrist will perform a physical examination, applying gentle pressure to the affected area to check for tenderness or localized pain. If a foot stress fracture is suspected, diagnostic imaging is often necessary. X-rays may be taken first, but foot stress fractures can sometimes be challenging to detect immediately after injury and may only become visible once healing begins. In such cases, advanced imaging like MRI scans, ultrasound, or bone scans may be used to confirm the diagnosis and assess surrounding soft tissues. These methods allow a podiatrist to pinpoint the site of the fracture. If you believe you have developed a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, 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 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 one of our offices located in Holmdel and Middletown, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

While dry skin and athlete's foot may seem similar due to their effects on the feet, they are distinct conditions with unique causes and symptoms. Dry skin occurs when the skin loses moisture, becoming rough, flaky, and sometimes itchy. This can result from environmental factors such as cold weather or prolonged exposure to hot water. Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, often between the toes. The symptoms of athlete's foot include redness, itching, burning sensations, peeling, and the development of blisters. The infection may also cause the skin to crack and bleed in severe cases. Unlike dry skin, athlete's foot is contagious and spreads in warm, damp environments like public showers or locker rooms. Treatment for athlete's foot usually involves antifungal medications, while dry skin is mostly managed with moisturizers and lifestyle adjustments to prevent further irritation. If you have symptoms of either ailment, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can determine which condition it is, and offer appropriate relief and treatment solutions.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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.