Plantar warts are small, rough growths that appear on the bottom of the feet, often on the heels or the balls of the feet. These warts are caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, which enters the skin through tiny cuts or breaks. The virus thrives in warm, moist environments, making public places like swimming pools or locker rooms common areas for infection. One of the most noticeable signs of plantar warts is the development of hard, thickened areas of skin, often with tiny black dots in the center, which are clogged blood vessels. The warts can cause discomfort, especially when pressure is applied, making walking or standing painful. In some cases, they may grow in clusters, which are called mosaic warts. If you have a plantar wart, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include removal for permanent relief.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, occur when the arch of the foot does not develop properly, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. While flat feet can present challenges, they also come with some potential benefits. One advantage is that flat feet provide a larger surface area for contact with the ground, which can improve stability and balance in some individuals. This can be especially helpful in activities that require a solid base, such as lifting weights or standing for long periods. However, flat feet can also cause problems. The lack of a natural arch can lead to foot pain, discomfort, and an increased risk of developing conditions like plantar fasciitis or shin splints. Flat feet may also contribute to poor posture and affect the alignment of the knees, hips, and lower back. If you have flat feet and are experiencing discomfort or pain, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition. 

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Wearing the right shoes while hiking is essential to prevent foot blisters and protect overall foot health. Hiking on long trails subjects the feet to constant pressure and friction, which can lead to painful blisters if not properly addressed. The feet can also change shape over long distances, with the toes swelling and feet growing slightly in size due to increased activity. Wearing ill-fitting shoes that are too tight or too loose can worsen these issues, causing discomfort and blisters. Proper hiking shoes should provide adequate support, fit securely, and allow for enough room to accommodate foot expansion. It is also important to wear moisture-wicking socks to reduce friction and keep the feet dry. Caring for the feet while hiking includes taking regular breaks to rest and allowing the feet to breathe, using blister prevention products, and staying hydrated to avoid swelling. Foot blisters can be uncomfortable, and may cause a delay in hiking. If you have developed one or more foot blisters, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist sooner rather than later who can offer you relief techniques, and effective prevention tips.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot and Ankle Center. 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 our office located in Egg Harbor Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Proper foot care is essential for maintaining overall health in seniors. As people age, foot health can significantly impact mobility, balance, and quality of life. Regular foot care helps prevent common issues such as bunions, corns, calluses, and ingrown toenails, which can lead to pain and discomfort. Neglecting foot health can also contribute to more serious conditions like infections or falls, which can be particularly dangerous for elderly people. Seniors should focus on cleaning and moisturizing their feet regularly to prevent dryness and cracks. It is also important to trim toenails carefully to avoid ingrown nails and infections. Wearing well-fitting shoes that provide adequate support can prevent many foot problems. Additionally, paying attention to circulation and checking for signs of conditions like diabetes is vital. If you are a senior and have foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can effectively treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional foot care tips.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

Stepping on a nail can lead to serious complications if not treated properly. When a nail punctures the foot, it creates a small but deep wound, allowing bacteria to enter and potentially cause infections like cellulitis, abscesses, or even bone infections. Tetanus, a rare but life-threatening condition, is also a risk if vaccinations are not current. Immediately after the injury, clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water, apply an antiseptic, and cover it with a sterile bandage. Avoid walking on the injured foot to prevent further damage. Seek medical attention even if the wound seems minor. A podiatrist can assess the depth of the injury, remove debris, prescribe antibiotics if needed, and recommend a tetanus booster. If you have a nail puncture wound, it is strongly suggested that you see a podiatrist for proper care.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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