Teaneck (201) 928-0808

google
Request Appointment

Blog

An Overview of Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are benign skin growths that occur on the soles of the feet due to a human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. HPV can get into the feet through a tiny crack in the skin and make the top layer of skin grow rapidly, thereby creating a wart. Warts on the bottom of the feet may be asymptomatic, or they may cause pain or discomfort while standing or walking due to pressure on the bottom of the foot. Plantar warts can typically be diagnosed through a physical examination and can be treated through medications, cryotherapy, or surgical removal. If you have plantar warts, consult with a podiatrist to find the right treatment for you.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Robert Marcus from Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. Our doctor 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 Teaneck, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Plantar Warts

Why Diabetics Should Regularly Visit a Podiatrist

Diabetes can lead to a variety of complications in the feet, including amputation. This is because diabetics tend to lose sensation in their feet which makes it difficult to notice any problems. Diabetes also leads to poor blood flow in the feet which can lead to numbness and slow the time it takes for wounds to heal. Because of this, it is important for diabetics to create a foot care routine with their podiatrist. This daily routine usually involves checking the feet for wounds or sores, washing the feet, keeping the skin soft and smooth, and protecting the feet with properly fitting footwear. Regular check ups with a podiatrist are also important. A podiatrist will be able to create a customized foot care plan, help provide suggestions on safely treating wounds, and help to provide shoes specifically for diabetics.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Robert Marcus from Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

  • Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
  • Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
  • Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Read more about Diabetic Foot Care

When to Visit a Podiatrist for Ankle Pain

The ankle is a network of bones, ligaments, and tendons that is designed to bear the weight of the body and allow for movement. Common causes of ankle pain include a sprained ankle, stress fracture, tarsal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, Achilles tendonitis, as well as a variety of other conditions. Patients who are experiencing ankle pain should consult with their podiatrist immediately if the pain and swelling is severe, there is a severe open wound or deformity, there is a sign of infection, or the ankle cannot bear any weight. Patients with less severe injuries should consult with a podiatrist if their swelling has been persistent for 2-5 days, or their pain hasn’t improved after several weeks. A podiatrist will be able to properly diagnose and treat the condition according to each individual situation.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Robert Marcus from Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. 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 Teaneck, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Ankle Pain

Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

Flip-Flops and Foot Problems

After a long winter, the sun is shining, the weather is warm, and you can finally wear your favorite flip-flops every day. Or, maybe not. Flip-flops, while relatively comfortable and easy to slip on, are not good for your feet. When you wear flip-flops, you may notice that you have to clench your toes around the edge of the shoe to keep it in place as you walk. This action is bad for the muscles in your feet and calves. The constant tension in your toes needed to keep that flip-flop on your foot can change your pattern of walking, make the toes stiff, and lead to foot and ankle injuries. Frequent flip-flop wearers may be more at risk of plantar fasciitis, a condition that causes stabbing heel pain and makes walking uncomfortable. Instead of flip-flops, try sandals that have a back and straps to keep your foot in place. If you have any foot or ankle pain, please consult with a podiatrist. 

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Robert Marcus from Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

  • Ankle problems
  • Hip problems
  • Lower back problems
  • Pain in the balls of the feet
  • Problems with foot arches
  • Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

  • Sprained ankles
  • Blisters
  • Infections
  • Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

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

Read more about Flip Flops and Feet
Connect with us

Copyright © Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck | Site Map | Nondiscrimination Policy | Design by: Podiatry Content Connection