January 2019

The medical term referred to as a bunion is considered to be a deformity of the big toe. The noticeable symptom is a bony protrusion on the side of the toe, and this typically occurs when the toe points inward. It may produce pain and discomfort as time progresses, in addition to a possible bump forming on the inside of the foot. Patients who are afflicted with bunions may find difficulty in wearing shoes, and may have to select larger shoes that can accommodate this condition. There are  reasons why bunions may develop, including genetics which can affect the structure of the foot, and wearing shoes that fit incorrectly or are tight. Some of these types of shoes may include high heels which may not provide adequate room for the toes to move freely. Additionally, enduring an injury may be the cause for a bunion to form. If you notice a bunion beginning to form, it is advised to seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Genine Befumo, DPM of 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.

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 Monroe Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain is one of the most common problems causing patients to seek help from a podiatrist. Heel pain is oftentimes a result of footwear, especially exercise footwear. Proper support is vital to the well-being of your foot. Footwear that doesn't properly fit your needs can lead to swelling, redness, and bruising. These symptoms could be a result of various conditions that affect the heel; after a full exam and x-ray, a podiatrist has the ability to determine which particular ailment is the source. If there is no bruising, but there is still pain at the back of the heel then this may be a stress fracture. Based on the diagnosis, new shoes may be a simple solution. Usually, shoes with better support are recommended to alleviate some of the previously mentioned symptoms. If you are affected by similar symptoms, it is a good idea to reach out to a podiatrist to help find a solution to your heel pain.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Genine Befumo, DPM of 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.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

If you have pain on the inner side of your pinky toe, you may have what is referred to as a corn. They can vary in size and can produce a significant amount of discomfort. This condition is typically caused by excess pressure that may originate from the type of shoe that is worn. The body manufactures this natural defense mechanism to protect the skin from pressure that is caused by friction. There may be medical conditions that may contribute to the onset of corns, and these may include hammertoe, or walking abnormalities. The easiest way to treat a corn is to remove the cause of the friction that may have caused it. Some patients claim partial relief may be found by using corn pads, or small pieces of cushioning, which may absorb some of the pressure. If you have a corn, it is advised to be under the care of a podiatrist who can properly determine the cause and offer the best treatment options for you.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Genine Befumo, DPM of University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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.

A common part of the foot where arthritis may develop is the toes. There are several joints that are located in the toes, and if inflammation should occur, arthritis may develop. This may typically cause severe pain and discomfort. There are several reasons why patients may develop toe arthritis, and these can include becoming overweight, hereditary factors, or the natural aging process. Additionally, women who choose to wear shoes that do not provide adequate room for the toes to move freely may also develop this uncomfortable foot condition. Many patients experience pain as the first symptom, and this may hinder performing everyday activities. Other symptoms may include swelling in and around the joints in the toes, possible stiffness as a result of diminished cartilage between the joints, or heat emanating from that area of the foot. If you believe you have the beginning stages of arthritis developing in your toes, speak with a podiatrist who can properly examine your condition.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, 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.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Monroe Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A natural defense mechanism the body uses to protect damaged skin is referred to as blisters. They are defined as small areas that are filled with fluid that cushions the skin, and this may prevent an infection from occurring. The pain may be intense from blisters that develop on the feet, and this may be a result of the body weight the feet typically bears. Most blisters are caused by friction and pressure, and this may happen when improper shoes are worn. Additionally, there may be other reasons why blisters may occur, including being exposed to freezing temperatures, which may cause the painful condition known as frostbite, spending excess time in the sun, which may lead to severe sunburn, or having an allergic reaction to an insect bite. Some patients develop blisters as a result of specific chemicals in laundry detergents or skin cleansers. If you have blisters on your feet, it is suggested that you counsel with a podiatrist who can properly guide you to correct treatment options.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Genine Befumo, DPM of 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.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can 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.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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.