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Managing a broken toe can be a painful and inconvenient experience. For stable, non-displaced fractures, an effective method is buddy taping, which is taping the injured toe to an adjacent toe. This provides support and restricts excessive movement, allowing the fractured toe to heal. Another conservative approach to broken toes involves wearing a stiff-soled shoe or a post-operative shoe. This helps protect the injured toe from further trauma and adds stability while walking or bearing weight. In cases where the broken bone ends are significantly separated, a podiatrist may perform a procedure to realign the bones. This is followed by immobilizing the injured toe, through buddy taping, wearing a splint, cast, or a rigid-sole shoe. This is typically done for a period of 4 to 6 weeks. For complex, or severely displaced  fractures, surgical intervention may be necessary. In this case, the bones are realigned, and screws, plates, or wires are used to secure them for stable healing. After the initial healing phase, certain exercises can be recommended to enhance toe flexibility, range of motion, and strength, ensuring a more complete recovery. The severity of the fracture and the specific treatment plan may vary from case to case. Consulting a podiatrist is suggested for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment options.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Genine Befumo, DPM from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. 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 Monroe Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Trench foot, also known as immersion foot syndrome, is a serious condition resulting from prolonged exposure of the feet to moisture. It damages the circulation and nerve function in the feet. Its history goes back to World War I when soldiers in cold, wet trenches suffered from it due to wearing inadequate footwear. The symptoms of trench foot include blisters, blotchy skin, redness, and possibly tissue loss. It can also cause sensations such as coldness, numbness, and persistent itching. Trench foot is primarily caused by wet feet that do not dry properly, with temperatures that are 30˚F to 40˚F being most conducive. Early treatment is essential, and, if left untreated, trench foot can lead to severe complications such as amputations, gangrene, and permanent nerve damage. Diagnosis involves a physical examination by a doctor to assess injuries, tissue loss, and circulation. Treatment mainly consists of rest, elevation, pain medications, and keeping the feet clean and dry. Prevention includes keeping feet dry, having spare socks and shoes on hand, and airing out feet after wearing socks and shoes, even if they do not appear wet. If you have sustained prolonged exposure of your feet to moisture and have symptoms that are worsening, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Genine Befumo, DPM from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Dry, cracked heels are a common issue that can cause discomfort. These fissures in the skin often result from dryness, pressure, or various lifestyle and medical factors. While not usually a severe health concern, untreated cracked heels can become painful. This condition typically starts with dry skin. Daily activities such as standing, walking, or running exert pressure on the feet, causing the heel pads to expand. When combined with dryness, the skin can crack, creating openings for bacteria and viruses. Other potential causes of cracked heels include lifestyle choices that can include walking barefoot, taking hot showers, or using harsh soaps. Wearing ill-fitting shoes with poor support can also contribute to cracked heels. On a medical front, factors like diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, fungal infections, and hypothyroidism may also lead to developing cracked heels. Preventing cracked heels involves addressing dry skin and its underlying causes. Moisturizing is key, and products such as custom shoe inserts, padded socks, and heel relief sleeves can help protect and hydrate the skin. To treat existing dry, cracked heels, it is helpful to focus on hydration and protection. If this problem persists or causes pain, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a more advanced treatment plan.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Genine Befumo, DPM from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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