Walking and running shoes are designed differently to accommodate unique foot mechanics and movement patterns. Walking shoes distribute weight more evenly across the foot, offer moderate cushioning, and typically have a lower, more stable heel flare for balance. Running shoes are built for forward motion, with increased cushioning to absorb impact, a higher heel to support stride, and more responsiveness and flexibility to handle repeated high force. Choosing the correct shoe type reduces fatigue, prevents injury, and supports natural foot function. A podiatrist can assess gait, recommend appropriate footwear, and prescribe custom orthotics if needed to optimize performance and comfort. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot and ankle conditions, and guide you on the right type of shoes to wear for your desired activity.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Howard Abramsohn, DPM from Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

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.

A twisted ankle, also known as an ankle sprain, occurs when the ligaments supporting the ankle are stretched or torn. This can happen during sports, walking, or running on uneven surfaces, or with sudden missteps. The ankle may look swollen, bruised, or puffy, and in some cases, appear unstable or misshapen. It often feels painful right away, with sensations ranging from sharp pain to aching, stiffness, or tenderness when bearing weight. A podiatrist can help from the start by evaluating the injury, checking joint stability, and using imaging when needed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out fractures. Early treatment may include immobilization, bracing, and activity modification. Care can then progress into strengthening exercises and custom orthotics to restore stability and prevent repeat injuries. Prompt treatment supports proper healing and long-term ankle health. If you think you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, 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 take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

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

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A broken ankle happens when one or more of the bones that form the ankle joint crack or fully break, often from a twist, fall, or sudden impact. Symptoms include sharp pain, swelling that appears quickly, bruising, and difficulty putting weight on the foot. Some people notice a popping sound at the moment of injury or see that the ankle looks out of place. Because the ankle supports the entire body during walking, even a small fracture can make movement painful and unsteady. Treatment depends on the type of break and may include immobilization, protective boots, or casting to keep the bones stable as they heal. Severe fractures can require surgery to restore proper alignment. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury, order imaging, and guide a safe recovery plan. If your ankle pain began after trauma or you cannot bear weight, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions.

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An ankle sprain is an injury that occurs when the ligaments supporting the ankle are stretched or torn, often during sports activity. Athletes commonly experience sprains from sudden changes in direction, jumping, landing awkwardly, or uneven playing surfaces. A low ankle sprain affects the ligaments on the outside of the ankle and is the most common type, with recovery often taking a shorter period of time when treated properly. A high ankle sprain involves ligaments above the ankle joint and usually requires a longer recovery due to reduced stability and increased stress during movement. Proper care is important to avoid chronic pain or repeated injury. A podiatrist can diagnose the severity of the sprain, guide treatment, recommend bracing and a support safe return to the sport. If ankle pain or instability is slowing performance, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Howard Abramsohn, DPM from Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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.

Ingrown toenails, which account for approximately 20 percent of all foot issues, develop when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. The affected toe may look red, swollen, and tender, and, in some cases, pus or an infection may develop. It often feels painful, throbbing, or sore, especially when wearing shoes or applying pressure. Common causes include improper nail trimming, wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear, injury to the toe, or hereditary nail shape. A podiatrist can begin by examining the nail and surrounding tissue, assessing the severity of the ingrown nail, and checking for infection. Treatment may include safe removal of the ingrown portion, guidance on proper nail care, infection management, if needed, and recommendations for protective footwear or orthotics to reduce pressure. In chronic or severe cases, minor surgical procedures may be performed to prevent recurrence. Because early professional care reduces pain and prevents complications, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, 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.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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.

Gout is a painful inflammatory condition that often strikes the big toe and can appear suddenly with intense redness, swelling, and warmth that makes even light contact uncomfortable. The attacks may feel like burning pressure or sharp throbbing, and the joint may look shiny or purple as uric acid crystals irritate the tissue. Gout is commonly caused by elevated uric acid levels linked to genetics, diet, certain medications, or underlying medical conditions. A podiatrist can assist from the very beginning by performing a careful examination, ordering appropriate tests, and distinguishing gout from other foot disorders. Early diagnosis allows timely treatments that may include medication to reduce inflammation, guidance on footwear, custom orthotics to ease joint stress, in addition to long-term strategies to prevent future flare ups through lifestyle adjustments. Because prompt care can significantly reduce pain and protect joint health, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition,

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM from Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment 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.

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain that occurs when the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes irritated. This condition often develops from repetitive strain, tight calf muscles, flat feet, high arches, or wearing unsupportive shoes. Symptoms include sharp heel pain with the first steps in the morning, tenderness, and stiffness after activity. Additionally, risk factors include increased activity levels, prolonged standing, aging, and excess weight. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, provide custom treatment plans, and offer support through therapies, footwear guidance, and targeted exercises to reduce pain. If heel pain is disrupting your routine, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.

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

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 our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A dislocated ankle occurs when the talus, the main ankle bone, is pushed out of place from under the tibia and fibula, which are the bones of the lower leg. This sudden shift causes sharp pain, swelling, and a foot that looks out of alignment. The injury also affects the ligaments that hold the ankle steady, as well as nearby joints where the talus meets the calcaneus, or heel bone. A podiatrist can check the position of the foot, make sure blood flow and feeling in the toes are normal, and use imaging to see if any nearby bones have been damaged. Treatment focuses on gently guiding the talus back into place and keeping the ankle immobile so healing can start. Surgery may be considered when there are fractures or if the ankle remains unstable. If you believe you have dislocated your ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Howard Abramsohn, DPM from Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A broken toe occurs when one of the small bones in the toe cracks or breaks, often due to stubbing, dropping a heavy object, or direct trauma during sports or accidents. It may look swollen, bruised, or misaligned, and in severe cases, the toe may appear bent or deformed. Many individuals describe immediate sharp pain, tenderness, and difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected foot. Even minor toe fractures can affect balance and gait if left untreated, potentially causing long-term foot problems. A podiatrist can begin by examining the toe, assessing movement and alignment, and using X-rays or other imaging to confirm the fracture. Treatment may include buddy taping, protective footwear, splints, or in severe cases minor surgical intervention to realign the bone. Early professional care can help ensure proper healing, reduce pain, and prevent complications. If you suspect a broken toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM from Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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.