Items filtered by date: September 2022

If an individual has an ingrown toenail, the side of one of their toenails has essentially grown into the skin. This can occur as a result of cutting the toenails too short or irregularly, which encourages the skin to grow over top of the nail. Importantly, ingrown toenails can become infected if they are never addressed or treated. Infections of this kind can make a person experience swelling, bleeding, a foul smell, or pain. Infections from ingrown toenails are usually either fungal or bacterial infections. If you have an ingrown toenail and believe that it has developed an infection, contact a podiatrist. This foot specialist will be able to help you identify the problem and come up with a plan to address it.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Christine Quinn of New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Basking Ridge, NJ, near Warren, Stirling, and Bedminster . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

If an individual has an ingrown toenail, the side of one of their toenails has essentially grown into the skin. This can occur as a result of cutting the toenails too short or irregularly, which encourages the skin to grow over top of the nail. Importantly, ingrown toenails can become infected if they are never addressed or treated. Infections of this kind can make a person experience swelling, bleeding, a foul smell, or pain. Infections from ingrown toenails are usually either fungal or bacterial infections. If you have an ingrown toenail and believe that it has developed an infection, contact a podiatrist. This foot specialist will be able to help you identify the problem and come up with a plan to address it.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Christine Quinn of New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Basking Ridge, NJ, near Warren, Stirling, and Bedminster . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a nerve condition that causes severe pain in the ball of the foot. It usually involves damage to the nerves that run between the third and fourth toes. Some link the feeling to that of having a small pebble in their shoe. The tissue around the nerve becomes thickened which can cause burning pain in the ball of the foot that radiates to the toes. Morton’s neuroma may also cause numbness and tingling. Many believe that wearing high-heeled shoes is a factor in the development of Morton’s neuroma. Some relief may be found by switching to footwear with a lower heel and a wider toe box. Other treatment options include rest, pain medication, orthotics, and injections. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary. If the pain in the ball of the foot persists or gets worse, it is wise to visit a podiatrist for an exam as well as more advanced treatment options.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Christine Quinn of New Jersey. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Morton’s neuroma is a nerve condition that causes severe pain in the ball of the foot. It usually involves damage to the nerves that run between the third and fourth toes. Some link the feeling to that of having a small pebble in their shoe. The tissue around the nerve becomes thickened which can cause burning pain in the ball of the foot that radiates to the toes. Morton’s neuroma may also cause numbness and tingling. Many believe that wearing high-heeled shoes is a factor in the development of Morton’s neuroma. Some relief may be found by switching to footwear with a lower heel and a wider toe box. Other treatment options include rest, pain medication, orthotics, and injections. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary. If the pain in the ball of the foot persists or gets worse, it is wise to visit a podiatrist for an exam as well as more advanced treatment options.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Christine Quinn of New Jersey. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

A bunion, medically known as hallux valgus, occurs when the base of the big toe bone moves outward, pushing the rest of the toe inward. A bunion can cause the foot to become wider, and make it difficult to find shoes that fit. It often rubs against the inside of the toe box and becomes red and irritated. Although wearing shoes that are too small, especially during one’s formative years, is not ideal, it is believed that genetics play a major role in the development of a bunion. Most people with bunions can find some relief through non-surgical means, including pain relief medication. In addition, finding wider shoes with a lower heel, and avoiding high heels, or shoes that are excessively pointy, can help. Losing weight may also reduce the pressure on the big toe. In severe cases, surgery is an option that can help correct the alignment of the toes. If a bunion is causing pain on a regular basis, it is a good idea to consult a podiatrist who can assess the situation and suggest a treatment plan.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Christine Quinn of New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

A bunion, medically known as hallux valgus, occurs when the base of the big toe bone moves outward, pushing the rest of the toe inward. A bunion can cause the foot to become wider, and make it difficult to find shoes that fit. It often rubs against the inside of the toe box and becomes red and irritated. Although wearing shoes that are too small, especially during one’s formative years, is not ideal, it is believed that genetics play a major role in the development of a bunion. Most people with bunions can find some relief through non-surgical means, including pain relief medication. In addition, finding wider shoes with a lower heel, and avoiding high heels, or shoes that are excessively pointy, can help. Losing weight may also reduce the pressure on the big toe. In severe cases, surgery is an option that can help correct the alignment of the toes. If a bunion is causing pain on a regular basis, it is a good idea to consult a podiatrist who can assess the situation and suggest a treatment plan.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Christine Quinn of New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Many women enjoy high heels despite the pain that can come from frequently wearing them. There may be many pairs of high heels in their closets, but the pain may cause unwanted foot conditions. Blisters are a common ailment to get while wearing high heels, and they can be caused by a narrow space in the toe area. The toes may rub together, and a painful blister may form. When patients choose to wear high heels, it is suggested that they fit properly, as this can help to avoid sliding. This is the term that is used when the shoes are too big, and the toes grip the front of the shoe, causing toe strain. This can lead to an uneven distribution of weight, and the ball of the foot may be negatively affected. Research has shown that the ankle, joints, and surrounding tendons may become strained and may lead to incurring a stress fracture or tendonitis. If you would like more information about the dangers to the feet of wearing high heels, please consult with a podiatrist.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Christine Quinn from New Jersey. 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 Basking Ridge, NJ, near Warren, Stirling, and Bedminster . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.