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Ankle sprains, though common, are often underestimated in their impact on our daily lives. Understanding these injuries is pivotal for everyone, from athletes to the average person navigating routine activities. Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments supporting the ankle stretch beyond their limits, often due to a sudden twist or turn. The severity varies, with mild sprains causing discomfort and swelling, while more severe cases may lead to instability and difficulty walking. Recognizing the signs, including pain, swelling, and bruising, is essential for prompt intervention. Ignoring ankle sprains or not providing adequate care can lead to long-term complications, such as chronic instability or arthritis. If you have endured an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and effectively treat this condition.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Center of South Jersey. Our doctors 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 offices located in Cherry Hill, Voorhees, Atco, and Turnersville, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Hyperhidrosis is characterized by excessive sweating at any time. The two main types are primary focal hyperhidrosis and secondary generalized hyperhidrosis. Distinguishing them is vital for proper care. Primary focal hyperhidrosis often starts in childhood and is possibly linked to genetics. It results in localized sweating in areas like the feet. Regardless of activity or temperature, excessive sweating occurs, impacting daily life and possibly causing skin issues. Secondary generalized hyperhidrosis is typically diagnosed later in life and may relate to other health conditions or medications. Sweating affects the entire body, including night sweats, unrelated to exercise or anxiety. Complications of hyperhidrosis can include social and emotional challenges, such as embarrassment, social isolation, and anxiety. Psychological impacts affect confidence, work performance, and relationships. Skin related issues like maceration and fungal infections are common due to continuous moisture. If you or your child suffers from hyperhidrosis of the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis so that appropriate treatment can be administered, and possible complications can be avoided.

If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact one of our podiatrists of Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Center of South Jersey. Our doctors can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

Hyperhidrosis of the Feet

Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.

Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.

Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.

In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.

A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Cherry Hill, Voorhees, Atco, and Turnersville, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Basketball is a popular sport known for its fast paced and intense nature. However, the constant running, jumping, pivoting, and sudden stops can put a lot of strain on the lower body, leading to common foot injuries. Three of the most frequent basketball foot injuries are ankle sprains, fractures, and plantar fasciitis. Basketball players often suffer from ankle sprains, which can happen when they land awkwardly or make sudden changes in direction. These sprains can also occur when they step on another player's foot, causing the supporting ligaments to stretch too far. The repetitive impact from jumping and running on hard surfaces can lead to fractures in the foot. Stress fractures can develop gradually due to overuse, while more severe fractures are typically caused by sudden impacts. Players with poor foot structure, such as flat feet, may develop plantar fasciitis, resulting in heel pain. If you play basketball and have sustained a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

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 Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Center of South Jersey. 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 our offices located in Cherry Hill, Voorhees, Atco, and Turnersville, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Cracked heels, a common foot ailment, result from a combination of environmental, lifestyle, and health factors. Insufficient moisture is a primary culprit, as dry skin lacks the flexibility to withstand the pressures of daily activities, leading to heel fissures. Prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces can contribute to the development of cracks, especially when combined with ill-fitting shoes that fail to provide adequate support. Skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis may exacerbate heel dryness, making them more susceptible to cracking. Unhealthy lifestyle habits, including poor nutrition and dehydration, can impact skin health, diminishing its ability to retain moisture. Obesity or excess body weight increases pressure on the heels, further predisposing them to crack. Additionally, age-related factors such as reduced oil production and diminished skin elasticity make older individuals more prone to cracked heels. If you have developed cracked heels, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can provide you with treatment options, which may include prescribed medication.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Center of South Jersey. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Cherry Hill, Voorhees, Atco, and Turnersville, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A plantar fibroma is a benign nodule that develops in the arch of the foot, specifically within the plantar fascia, the tissue band extending from the heel to the toes. Those with a plantar fibroma often notice a firm lump in the arch of their foot, which can either stay consistent in size or grow slowly over time. This lump often leads to discomfort or pain, particularly when walking, standing, or applying pressure to the foot, such as when wearing shoes. The pain is usually due to the fibroma pressing against the footwear or ground. As a result, individuals might experience changes in their walking pattern and such changes can further affect overall foot function and comfort. If you think you have a plantar fibroma, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Center of South Jersey. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Plantar Fibroma

A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.

What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?

While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.

What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?

There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.

Treatment and Prevention

A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:

• Steroid injections
• Orthotics
• Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump 

Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Cherry Hill, Voorhees, Atco, and Turnersville, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Achilles tendon injuries, though often underestimated, can be a formidable adversary in the realm of physical well-being. When the Achilles tendon, the largest one in the human body, succumbs to strain or trauma, a cascade of challenges unfolds. Expect a journey of patience and resilience as healing time can vary, requiring a delicate balance of rest and rehabilitation. The onset may start as a sudden sharp pain or a gradual ache, demanding attention to avoid making it worse. Mobility may be compromised, necessitating a change in daily activities. As the healing process unfolds, anticipate the gradual return to normalcy, guided by a comprehensive rehabilitation plan. Embrace the process, as understanding and managing expectations become vital companions on the path to recovery from Achilles tendon injuries. If you have endured an Achilles tendon injury, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can customize an appropriate treatment plan for you.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Center of South Jersey. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Cherry Hill, Voorhees, Atco, and Turnersville, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Fungal nail infections, or onychomycosis, affect a significant portion of the population, particularly the toenails. Characterized by discoloration, thickening, and sometimes detachment of the nail from its bed, these infections stem from fungi that invade through tiny breaks in the nail or surrounding skin. Anyone can contract this type of infection, but they are especially common in individuals with certain health conditions, such as diabetes, which predispose them to recurrence. Diagnosis should be professionally confirmed, and while treatments, mainly oral antifungal medications, are available, they can be lengthy and sometimes ineffective, with infections taking months to resolve. Notably, even after successful treatment, fungal nail infections can recur, particularly in people with chronic medical conditions that compromise the immune system or circulation. To manage and prevent recurrence, especially if you are at higher risk for these infections, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for comprehensive treatment and continual monitoring of this condition.

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 Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Center of South Jersey. 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 our offices located in Cherry Hill, Voorhees, Atco, and Turnersville, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pregnancy is a transformative journey for a woman's body, and it is not just the baby bump that undergoes changes. The feet also experienced their share of adjustments during this remarkable period. As the body produces the hormone relaxin to prepare for childbirth, it can affect the ligaments and tendons throughout, including the feet. This increased flexibility can lead to a temporary increase in shoe size. Swelling, known as edema, is another common foot change during pregnancy and is often caused by fluid retention. This can make wearing comfortable footwear imperative. Added pressure on the arches can trigger or exacerbate flat feet, resulting in discomfort or pain. Be prepared for these transformations, and remember that they are all part of the incredible journey to motherhood. If you would like more information about how to find relief from foot pain during pregnancy, in addition to learning more about how the feet change during this exciting time, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with useful knowledge.

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 Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Center of South Jersey. 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 our offices located in Cherry Hill, Voorhees, Atco, and Turnersville, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.