Cold Feet and Blood Circulation
While most people have experienced cold feet at some point in their life, some experience it during times when the weather isn’t necessarily cold. This can be due to poor blood circulation, which in itself can be caused by a number of conditions. Some of these conditions can include anemia, diabetes, hypothyroidism, and peripheral vascular disease, among others. If your feet are cold frequently or have been cold for a long time, it is strongly recommended to see a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition. The podiatrist may have to utilize several tests to determine the exact cause. Once a cause is found, treatment will vary depending upon the condition.
Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Poor Circulation in the Feet
Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.
Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.
Causes
Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:
- Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness
- Numbness or cramping in the legs
- Skin discoloration
- Slower nail & hair growth
- Erectile dysfunction
Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.
As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Cavaliers Player Derrick Rose Sprains Ankle
Derrick Rose of the Cleveland Cavaliers sprained his left ankle during the Cavaliers vs Milwaukee Bucks game. Rose was hit by Bucks center Greg Monroe while jumping to perform a layup in the fourth quarter. The hit caused him to land with his ankle turned inward, causing a sprain. The hit was ruled as a common foul rather than a flagrant foul. Rose left the game having scored 12 points, which helped the Cavaliers win 116 to 97. It is unknown how long Rose will be out for, if at all.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Plantar Fasciosis
- Achilles Tendinitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
New Study Seeks Ways to Prevent Stress Fractures
A new study conducted by the University of Oregon, and with the participation of Stanford University, the University of Southern California, and the University of Colorado Boulder, seeks to identify athletes who are likely to develop stress fractures. With newly known risk factor indicators available, athletes who are at risk for stress fractures can be alerted and allowed to rest to prevent them. Stress fractures, or tiny hairline fractures in the bone, most commonly occur from overuse and lack of rest. The study is still in its early stages and will take several years to produce conclusive results. Researchers are hopeful that this will help prevent athlete's injuring themselves and allow them to keep playing.
Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use. The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.
What Are Stress Fractures?
Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:
- Runners
- People affected with Osteoporosis
- Tennis or basketball players
- Gymnasts
- High impact workouts
Symptoms
Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Exercise Programs and Therapy Help to Reduce Falls Among the Elderly
Researchers have recently examined data and found that elderly persons who engaged in exercise programs were 49 percent less likely to have an injury caused by a fall. In addition to this impressive result, those who partook in exercise programs and vision exams had 83 percent lower odds of an injury resulting from a fall. Those who took vitamin supplements and had geriatric assessments in addition to exercise programs and vision exams had 88 percent lower odds. This data helps to show that not only did these steps help prevent falls, they also reduced the impact of an injury from a fall.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
- Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
- Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
- Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
- Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
- Utilizing a walker or cane
- Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
- Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Treatment of Sever’s Disease
Typically Sever’s disease occurs in children between the ages of 8 and 12 years old. It occurs when the heel has not completed growing and becomes injured. The heel is less flexible as the tendons and muscles become tight. Activities that include running and jumping are common culprits when it comes to this injury. If you notice your child limping after engaging in physical activity, there might be a chance that they could have the disorder. In addition to this, a tendency to tiptoe may be noticed. Treatment includes stopping or cutting back any activity that may have caused the pain. Stretching the hamstrings and calf muscles as well as the back of the leg can be useful in managing this condition. Long-term problems have not been linked to Sever’s disease, however a podiatrist may be consulted if the heel pain does not improve with treatment.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Preventing Running Injuries in the Fall
Autumn is a lovely time of the year but can present some difficulties for runners. While generally not a dangerous time to run, there are some tips one should consider to help prevent running injuries in the fall. Avoid ground that is covered in leaves. This is important, as leaves can be wet and make slips more likely. Furthermore, leaves can also cover up holes in the ground, mud, or other obstacles that can cause you to fall or hurt your foot or ankle. Another tip is to wear brighter or more contrasting colors if you run alongside a road or woodlands. This will keep you visible to drivers. Regardless of whenever or wherever you run, staying alert of your surroundings and following some basic safety tips can monumentally help prevent any running injuries.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.
What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.
Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Taking Proper Care of Foot Wounds
Knowing how to take care of a wound on your foot is important, especially if you are diabetic as it is more susceptible to infection and less likely to heal properly. In addition to diabetes, not maintaining a healthy diet and excessive drinking can also make it harder for wounds to heal. If you do sustain a foot wound, wash the area gently with mild soap and water and then apply a bandage. It is important to change bandages everyday in order to promote healing. If the foot wound seems serious it is recommended that you see a podiatrist. If you are a diabetic, however, every foot wound should be considered serious and seeing a podiatrist is strongly recommended.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Everyday Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.
It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
National Diabetes Month and Diabetic Foot Care
To display the importance of diabetes, November is known as National Diabetes Month. An estimate by the Center for Disease Control puts the number of diabetics in the US at 30 million people. Most of these people, or 9 out of 10, have type 2 diabetes; this can be managed through good diet and proper self-care. An important part of diabetic care is taking care of your feet. Diabetes can cause poor blood circulation and neuropathy; this means that if a diabetic was to sustain a wound on their foot, they may not feel it nor might it heal properly. An ulcer can become infected, which in severe cases may lead to amputation or limb salvage. To help prevent this, monitor your feet daily for any abnormalities or wounds, wash your feet daily, and wear shoes that are comfortable and provide good support. If you discover a wound on your foot, it is recommended to see a podiatrist as soon as possible as they can provide care and monitor the wound before it becomes infected.
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 Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. 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 Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Symptoms of Gout
If you experience sudden attacks of swelling and severe pain, you may have gout. Gout is a form of arthritis in which small crystals form around the joints and may lead to kidney stones. A buildup of uric acid in the blood leads to inflammation and is the cause of gout. Gout typically affects the toes and ankles, in addition to the knees and fingers.The joints become swollen, and the skin in the affected area may appear red and shiny. Gout occurs in attacks and can be debilitating and extremely painful. Lowering uric acids levels may provide a long-term solution, which is commonly done through change of diet and medication. Ice packs are generally used during an attack for relief. Please consult a podiatrist if you have difficulty walking or have severe pain in your feet.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
How Heel Spurs Can Feel Better
A growth on the heel that appears to have a bony texture is commonly known as a heel spur. Pain and tenderness often occur mainly because of the weight placed on the heel while walking. Obesity, poor walking and running habits, and possible hereditary conditions may be common causes of this condition, in addition to repetitive trauma inflicted on the heel. There are a few treatment options, and a crucial one is to rest the foot. Cold therapy may be another beneficial way to treat heel spurs, along with anti-inflammatory medicine. It’s important to keep the foot and ankle strong by performing specific stretches that aid in retaining mobility. An effective exercise that will help to stretch the bottom of the foot is done by pulling up on the toes and feet with your hands, then holding this position for 30 seconds. This is a beneficial treatment when repeated regularly, although it may be painful at first to perform. If you think you may have a heel spur, please consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis.
Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.
Heels Spurs
Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.
Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.
Pain
The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.
Treatments
There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
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How Can My Feet Feel Better?
Standing on your feet all or most of the day often triggers foot pain. An effective way to treat this type of pain may be to incorporate foot exercises into your daily routine. There are a few optimal stretches that can be performed, such as pointing and flexing the toes. If heel pain is present, possibly rolling a ball under the foot while applying light pressure may be helpful. Relaxing the feet in a warm bath and foot massages can be useful in helping the feet feel better. Cramps in the toes may cause foot pain, and an effective stretch may be to raise the heels, repeating this a few times. Strengthening the toes is important to do if you have hammertoe, and a practical way to accomplish this is to squeeze the toes using toe separators. Before you establish a routine, consult with a podiatrist for proper foot exercises.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Exercise for Your Feet
Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.
Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual.
Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
How Do I Treat My Broken Foot?
Chronic overuse or sudden trauma to the foot can result in a foot fracture, where treatment may require the use of crutches. Choices of recovery depend on the type of fracture; regardless of the cause, serious injuries may require a lengthy recovery. A foot fracture typically occurs from trauma, such as a car accident or by dropping something on the foot. Common symptoms include pain that increases as weight is borne by the foot, in addition to swelling, tenderness, and bruising which can occur on the ankle. Treatment options including rest, elevation, and protective footwear or casts are typically effective in treating a broken foot. If multiple bones are broken, surgery may be necessary for proper healing and natural alignment. If an injury occurs to your foot causing you to feel like it may be broken, please consult your podiatrist for treatment.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.
Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:
- Bruising
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Blue in color
- Numbness
- Cold
- Misshapen
- Cuts
- Deformities
Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.
Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Treatment for Hammertoe
One common cause of the condition known as hammertoe is wearing shoes that don’t fit correctly. When the toes are in a cramped position for an extended period of time, it’s natural for the muscles of the toes to become shorter, causing the toes to lock into a curved position. Patients who have arthritis or diabetes may be prone to developing hammertoe, and those who have a certain inherited gene may also be at risk. Occasionally the toes can be straightened, and in most cases, a splint may be utilized for stretching the toe. However, if the toe is completely locked up, surgery may be necessary. There are muscle strengthening exercises that aid in helping the foot to become stronger, possibly decreasing the discomfort originating from this condition. When the proper shoes are worn, which may make it necessary to increase the size of the shoe, more room is provided for the toes to feel comfortable. Often this is a condition that won’t disappear naturally, and a consultation is strongly advised for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Hammertoe
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.
Symptoms
- Pain in the affected toes
- Development of corns or calluses due to friction
- Inflammation
- Redness
- Contracture of the toes
Causes
Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible
Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur
Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe
Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe
Treatment
Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it
Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used
Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
What Causes Plantar Warts?
A plantar wart is caused by one of many types of a very common virus. It appears as a thick, callused spot on the sole of the foot and may vary in size, ranging from small to possibly covering most of the sole. The human papillomavirus (HPV) that causes plantar warts is known to be contagious and can also spread to other parts of the body. Although anyone is susceptible to this virus, it’s most prevalent in teenagers or those individuals with weakened immune systems. Many of these warts will disappear on their own, making it unnecessary to treat this condition. However, if the wart becomes painful and interferes with daily activities, there are various treatments available. A consultation with a podiatrist is suggested to learn about effective methods designed for the removal of plantar warts.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. 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 Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.