Items filtered by date: April 2022

PAD or Peripheral Artery Disease occurs when there is a narrowing or blockage of blood vessels. This disease is caused by a buildup of fat in the arteries, and is also known as atherosclerosis. Though this can happen in any blood vessel, it is more common in the lower extremities. Risks for PAD include aging, smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Some symptoms that may be present include pain in the feet or legs with activity that stops with rest, decreased or absent foot pulse, sores or ulcers that do not heal, and cold or numb toes. Beyond damage to one’s feet if left untreated, PAD can lead to a heart attack or stroke. If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see a podiatrist to measure blood pressure in the ankles via an ankle brachial index (ABI) and compare that to blood pressure in the arms, do possible imaging studies, confirm the diagnosis, and obtain a treatment plan.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, 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.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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 medical term for the growth area where the plantar fascia and the Achilles tendon connect to the heel is known as the calcaneal apophysis. It starts to develop in children approximately 7 or 8 years old, and permanently fuses to the heel bone in young teenagers. Children in this age group who frequently participate in sports activities may experience a condition that is known as Sever’s disease. Common symptoms of this ailment can include intense heel pain, which can become worse when wearing shoes that have limited cushioning or arch support. Sever's disease is an irritation of the heel, which occasionally causes swelling and bruising. Successful treatment options include temporarily stopping the activity that caused the injury and resting the affected foot as often as possible. Some patients perform specific stretches that may help to increase flexibility. If you have Sever’s disease, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide you toward correct treatment options.

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.

The tibial nerve in the ankle enables movement and feeling in areas of the foot. When this nerve gets compressed, it forms what is known as tarsal tunnel syndrome.  This can happen as a result of a sprained ankle, or medical conditions that can include flat feet, high arches, or diabetes. Tarsal tunnel syndrome often causes severe pain and discomfort and is noticeable in the bottom of the foot and toes. Some of the tests that are performed to reach a diagnosis can include a nerve biopsy, and electromyography, which is a recording of electrical activity in the muscles. Treatment options can include resting and elevating the affected foot, and surgery may be recommended that can permanently reduce the pressure. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is diagnosed and treated by a podiatrist, and it is advised to consult with this type of doctor if you think you may have this condition.

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.