Bursa, an important cushion between your muscles and bone, can sometimes cause heel pain if it becomes inflamed or irritated. This condition, called bursitis, often occurs due to repetitive stress on the ankle from running, jumping, and walking. Bursitis in the heel can make activities like walking or standing for long periods painful. Your heel may also be red and tender to the touch. You may be at an increased risk for this condition if you have a history of inflammatory arthritis or suddenly start intense workout routines. The good news is that with proper care and attention, individuals with heel pain from bursitis can find relief and improve their overall foot health. If you are experiencing persistent heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can diagnose the source of the pain, and provide personalized treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Charcot-Marie-Tooth, or CMT disease, is a genetic condition that affects the peripheral nerves. It can be recognized by progressive muscle weakness, particularly in the arms and legs. The condition is named after Jean Charcot, Pierre Marie, and Howard Henry Tooth, the physicians who first described it. Symptoms of Charcot foot often begin in adolescence or early adulthood and may include weakness and wasting of muscles in the foot and lower leg, as well as a loss of sensation in toes, and lower limbs. Additional symptoms can include abnormalities in foot muscles, unstable ankles, cramping in lower legs, and reduced reflexes. Over time, symptoms may worsen, leading to increased muscle and joint pain, neuropathic pain, and walking and mobility problems. Assistive devices, such as wheelchairs, leg braces, special shoes, or orthopedic devices, play an essential role in managing Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. If you believe you may be experiencing symptoms of CMT, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a comprehensive assessment and personalized care planning.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pain in the big toe can be attributed to various causes, including arthritis, fractures, and gout. While most cases are manageable with conservative remedies, certain conditions like sesamoiditis may necessitate more specialized treatment. Arthritis, specifically hallux rigidus, is a common culprit, often affecting individuals over the age of 50, particularly women. Ingrown toenails can also lead to discomfort when toenails are cut too short or improperly. Gout, characterized by the buildup of uric acid in joints, frequently targets the big toe joint. Turf toe, a sports-related injury resulting from repetitive bending or jamming, is more prevalent among athletes on artificial turf. Sesamoiditis, common in runners and ballet dancers, results from inflammation of tendons around the sesamoid bones below the big toe. Toe fractures are commonplace due to various activities or accidents. Bunions, deformities at the base of the big toe, can cause discomfort and joint inflammation. Other potential causes encompass nail infections, Raynaud's disease, Morton's neuroma, and rheumatoid arthritis. If you have unexplained, persistent big toe pain, or if it is worsening, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain, may necessitate surgery in severe cases when conservative treatments prove ineffective. The surgical approach typically involves releasing tension on the plantar fascia, either partially or completely. It is essential to understand that surgery is considered a last resort after exhausting non-invasive options. Recovery can be lengthy, requiring patience and adherence to post-operative instructions. Complications, though rare, may include infection, nerve damage, or incomplete pain relief. Prior to surgery, thorough consultation with a podiatrist is imperative for accurate diagnosis and determining the appropriateness of surgical intervention. While success rates are generally high, individual outcomes vary. Understanding the facts about plantar fasciitis surgery aids in informed decision-making, emphasizing the importance of exploring conservative treatments before considering surgical options for this persistent and often debilitating foot condition. If you have plantar fasciitis, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

High heels, synonymous with style and sophistication, often come at a cost to foot health, profoundly influencing foot posture. The elevated heel forces a redistribution of body weight, prompting a forward tilt of the pelvis and altering the natural curvature of the spine. This shift places increased pressure on the balls of the feet, and may lead to conditions such as metatarsalgia, characterized by pain and inflammation in the front part of the foot. The Achilles tendon undergoes increased tension, potentially causing tightness and discomfort. Prolonged wear of high heels can contribute to the shortening of the calf muscles, limiting flexibility and disrupting the overall biomechanics of the foot. Ankle instability and a higher risk of sprains are also associated with frequent high heel use. Understanding the impact of high heels on foot posture emphasizes the importance of moderation and the occasional choice of comfortable footwear to maintain optimal foot health. If you are experiencing foot pain brought about by wearing high heels, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist for treatment options.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM from Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An acute ankle sprain refers to a sudden and unexpected injury to the ligaments that support the ankle joint. These ligaments can become stretched or torn when the foot twists or turns beyond its normal range of motion. This injury often results from a misstep, an awkward landing, or a sudden change in direction, such as in sports activities. The causes of an acute ankle sprain are typically linked to excessive or forceful movements that strain the ankle ligaments. Common situations include stumbling on uneven ground, stepping off of a curb, or rolling the ankle during sports activities, such as basketball or soccer. Wearing high heels and poorly fitting footwear can also increase the risk of ankle sprains by destabilizing the ankle. Understanding the definition and causes of an acute ankle sprain is essential for both prevention and timely treatment. If you have sprained your ankle, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose this condition, and offer treatment methods that are right for you.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM from Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Fitting shoes properly is an important aspect of foot health and overall comfort. The Brannock device, a ubiquitous foot-measuring tool found in shoe stores, is a valuable tool for ensuring the right fit. Using the Brannock device is a straightforward process. Start by removing your current footwear and placing one foot onto the device's base, ensuring your heel is snug against the heel cup. Then, adjust the slider to reach the tip of your longest toe, typically the big toe. The device provides three key measurements, which are the heel-to-toe length, arch length, and width. Pay attention to all three as they contribute to a well-fitted shoe. The Brannock device takes the guesswork out of shoe sizing, enabling you to find the ideal fit. Remember that feet can vary in size, and it is essential to measure both feet. When trying on shoes, use the larger foot's measurements as a guide for the best overall fit. Properly fitted shoes can prevent discomfort, reduce the risk of foot problems, and provide a foundation for healthy, happy feet. A podiatrist can assist you in how to use the Brannock device to obtain your proper shoe size, and it is suggested that you confer with this type of doctor for any questions you may have.

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM from Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

• Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
• Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
• Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
• Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
• Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Hammertoe, a podiatric condition, unfolds as a deformity affecting the toes, altering their natural alignment. This ailment is characterized by a bending of the toe joints, resembling the shape of a hammer. The condition most commonly affects the second toe, but any toe can undergo this deformity over time. The root causes of hammertoe often stem from an imbalance in the muscles and tendons that normally keep toes straight. Shoes with inadequate space and high heels can exert pressure, forcing the toes into abnormal positions. Moreover, genetic predispositions and foot structure anomalies contribute to the development of hammertoe. Arthritis and other systemic diseases may exacerbate the risk. The progression of hammertoe typically unfolds gradually, starting with mild bending and progressing to fixed deformities if left untreated. Recognizing the definition and causes of hammertoe is essential for early intervention and the implementation of preventative measures, underscoring the importance of wearing proper footwear and having regular foot examinations. If you have symptoms of hammertoe, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer treatment methods that are right for you.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor 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 our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Kidney disease is a serious condition that can give rise to foot problems, primarily due to nerve and blood vessel damage. Two significant complications related to kidney disease and foot health are circulation issues and altered sensation. These changes can develop gradually, often without noticeable symptoms. One common foot problem associated with kidney complications is a foot ulcer, where the skin breaks down, exposing underlying tissue. Unfortunately, the skin's poor healing ability in some kidney disease patients makes them more susceptible to ulcers or infections, even from minor injuries. These foot ulcers can become infected, and if left untreated, may lead to severe complications, including an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. If you have kidney disease, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist to set up regular screenings and assessments to detect any potential issues early and create a personalized treatment plan.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM from Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.