Identifying Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are a common condition that can only affect the feet. They occur when feet come in contact with the human papillomavirus (HPV), so they are contagious. Most people contract plantar warts from walking barefoot in the gym, public pool areas, locker rooms, or similar environments. Plantar warts differ from most warts because they grow inward through the thick layer of skin on the sole of the foot. The thick layer of skin helps the plantar warts hide from the body’s immune system and allows the warts to live on the foot without much resistance. To prevent plantar warts, avoid touching your feet with bare hands and walking barefoot in public places. Keep your feet clean and avoid sharing shoes or socks with other people. If you think you might have plantar warts, speak with a podiatrist to learn about treatment options.
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.
Methods to Control Plantar Hyperhidrosis
Research has shown that approximately five percent of the world’s population may have a condition that is referred to as plantar hyperhidrosis. This uncomfortable situation may be a result of excessive sweat that is produced throughout the day. There may be effective methods to control this ailment, which may include wearing the correct socks, and using antifungal powders. Some patients may find it helpful to see if there are patterns for sweaty feet episodes. This method may enable the patient to notice if there are any triggers that may cause this condition, such as foods or emotions. Sweating may be reduced when plenty of water is consumed during the day, in addition to wearing shoes that have absorbent insoles. If you have plantar hyperhidrosis, it is advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis and treat this condition.
If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.
Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.
In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.
A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.
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.
Heel Balm for Cracked Heels
Cracked heels are a common condition caused by dryness on the heel of the foot. Cracked heels can range from minor dryness that causes mild discomfort when barefoot, to deep cracks that cause pain. There are a couple ways to help alleviate symptoms of cracked heels from home. One of the simplest ways is to apply heel balm or a thick moisturizer. Balms help to moisturize, soften, and exfoliate dead skin. The ingredients that help to do this are urea, salicylic acid, alpha-hydroxy acids, and saccharide isomerate. Heel balms are easy to find, they can be bought at a drugstore or ordered online. Sometimes, heel balms might result in minor irritation. Minor irritation is normal, but if you experience continual irritation or more extreme reactions, then it is best to stop using the balm. If you have cracked heels and would like to learn about more ways to treat them, then it is strongly suggested you speak with a podiatrist.
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 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.
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 Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
How Does an Ingrown Toenail Develop?
Ingrown toenails affect the big toe, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. This happens as a result of the nail growing into the skin, and can cause redness and an oozing discharge. It may develop as a result of toenails that are curved or thick, or possibly from an injury that has occurred. Additional reasons why ingrown toenails may form can come from wearing shoes that are too tight, or from trimming the nail improperly. Your toe may feel better after it is soaked in warm water, and wearing shoes that are comfortable can aid in the healing process. If your toe has become infected, it is advised that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible so the correct treatment can begin.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, 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.
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 Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails
An ingrown toenail can cause discomfort in the foot. The symptoms that are associated with ingrown toenails include reddened skin surrounding the affected nail, discharge from the affected toe, and extreme sensitivity when that part of the foot is touched. This condition may develop due to a variety of reasons, including toenails that have been trimmed incorrectly, wearing shoes that are too tight, or a possible injury that has occurred to the toe. It is important to treat ingrown toenails promptly. Comfort may be found when properly fitting shoes are worn, socks are changed frequently, and the feet are washed daily. If the toenail should become infected, an effective method for complete relief may be to have the nail partially or totally removed. An ingrown toenail can be quite painful. If you feel you have this condition, seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat your condition.
Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, 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.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.
Causes
- Improper toenail trimming
- Genetics
- Improper shoe fitting
- Injury from pedicures or nail picking
- Abnormal gait
- Poor hygiene
You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.
Symptoms
Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.
Treatment
Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
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.
Obesity May Cause Heel Pain
Patients who are overweight may experience heel pain; and in severe cases, this may lead to disability. Practicing a routine exercise regimen is generally helpful in shedding additional weight, but heel pain can prevent regular exercise from occurring. Plantar fasciitis can be common among overweight patients, and chronic foot pain may become worse if the weight should increase. The weight of the body is generally kept off the heels while cycling and swimming, and these aerobic exercises may be helpful in losing weight. If you are experiencing obesity and would like additional information about how excess weight can affect the feet, speak to your podiatrist.
The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned 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.
Obesity and Your Feet
People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.
Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity
- When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
- Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
- Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.
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.
Are There Benefits from Working on Your Feet?
Research has indicated there are benefits from working while standing or moving about for the majority of the day. As each step is taken, circulation may improve, and blood glucose levels are positively affected. Additionally, standing and walking can contribute to cardiovascular health. It is helpful to rest the feet periodically during the day, and this may help to prevent possible foot pain. The feet can be properly stretched as the toes are pointed and flexed, and this is easily accomplished as the feet are resting. People in the nursing profession often have long hours, and their jobs have the potential to be physically demanding. It is recommended that shoes are alternated twice per year, and adding insoles may aid in providing maximum comfort. Please consult with a podiatrist if you would like additional information about proper foot care during the work day.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Working on Your Feet
Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.
Positive Changes
Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.
Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.
Eliminate Pain
Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.
Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.
With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.
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.
Can Wearing Flip Flops Cause Damage to the Feet?
Research has indicated that flip flops may be damaging to your feet, and may negatively affect the overall health of the body. There are several foot conditions that can develop from wearing this type of shoe. These include heel pain which may lead to heel spurs or plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, bruises and blisters. While flip flops are being worn, the arch of the foot lacks support, and this can cause pain in the heel and middle of the foot. Additionally, the toes will typically become strained from attempting to keep the shoe on the foot. Tripping and falling incidents may increase, which can be a result of lack of support. If you would like additional information about the way flip flops affect the feet, please speak to a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.
Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
Flip-Flops and Feet
Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.
When Are They Okay to Wear?
Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.
Why Are They Bad for My Feet?
These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.
More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet
- They Slow You Down
- May Cause Blisters and Calluses
- Expose Your Feet to Bacteria
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.
Symptoms of Poor Circulation
Patients who have poor circulation often experience a tingling sensation, or “pins and needles,” in their feet. This may be indicative of existing health issues in the body, and it is suggested to obtain a proper diagnosis. Additional symptoms that are associated with this condition include cramps in the feet, lack of energy, and the lower extremities may feel cold for the majority of the day. Some of the causes of poor circulation include diabetes, high blood pressure, or thyroid disorder. It is important to implement healthy lifestyle changes, and this will typically provide mild relief. If you have poor circulation, it is advised to consult with a podiatrist who can determine the cause and provide proper treatment choices.
While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. 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
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.
Symptoms
Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
- Pain
- Muscle Cramps
Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.
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 care needs.
Symptoms of Poor Circulation in the Feet
Poor circulation may prevent runners and athletes from successfully reaching their fitness goals. There are several symptoms that are associated with this condition. These often include cold feet, a change in skin color, and swelling from sitting or standing for extended periods of time. Runners may also feel their legs and feet becoming tired while pursuing their chosen activity. A common cause of this ailment is peripheral artery disease (PAD). This can occur when there is an excess of plaque in the arteries which limits blood flow. Additionally, patients who are obese may endure poor circulation, as a result of stress that is put on the blood vessels. If you are experiencing cold or numb feet, it is recommended that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat this 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.
More...
Preventing Plantar Hyperhidrosis
Plantar hyperhidrosis is the condition of excessive feet sweating. Hyperhidrosis can be extremely uncomfortable. There are a few measures to take in order to prevent uncontrolled sweating. One method is to log when sweating episodes occur. You may begin to notice that you sweat more when you are in specific situations or eat certain types of foods. Also, be sure to wear the correct socks. You should have different socks for the seasons and for various types of athletic activities. In addition to having the correct socks, choose shoes that are made of lightweight fabrics, such as canvas or leather. Another method is to use antifungal powder or cornstarch on your feet. You may want to apply an antiperspirant to the feet once or twice per week, as well. Finally, stay hydrated. Proper hydration can reduce sweating throughout the whole body. If you believe you may be experiencing plantar hyperhidrosis, be sure to contact a podiatrist who can help treat the affliction.
If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.
Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.
In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.
A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.
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.
Risk Factors for Morton’s Neuroma
Morton’s neuroma is a condition that causes pain in the ball of the foot, typically in between the third and fourth toe. It occurs when tissue thickens around a nerve. Although there are usually no external symptoms, it may feel as though you are standing on a pebble. It could also cause a burning sensation and numbness in the toes. Morton’s neuroma tends to affect specific groups of people more than others. For example, if you often wear high heels, you could be at risk for developing Morton’s neuroma. Athletes who engage in high-impact activity and wear tight shoes could find themselves with this ailment, as well. Finally, people with prior foot complications, such as bunions or hammertoes, are known to get Morton’s neuroma more often than the average person. If you feel like you may have this condition, be sure to consult with a podiatrist.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM of Quality Foot Care Center. 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 Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
What Are Systemic Diseases of the Foot?
There are several systemic diseases that can 
both display symptoms in the feet and impact the health of the feet. Common systemic diseases in the foot include gout, diabetes mellitus, arthritis and neurological disorders such as diabetic neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease. These can all have a significant impact on your feet. At the same time, these systemic diseases can be effectively treated to minimize both joint and muscle damage if they are diagnosed early and treated with medication. Diabetics with a systemic disease must closely monitor their blood sugar levels. People with arthritis that also have a systemic disease must ensure they are taking the proper treatments. If you feel you may have a systemic disease, it is important to see a podiatrist as soon as you can.
When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.
Systemic Diseases of the Feet
Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable. Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.
Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.
Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.
Diabetes of the Feet
Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.
Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the 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 needs.
Who Is Prone to Developing Cuboid Syndrome?
There are seven tarsal bones in the foot, and one of them is referred to as the cuboid bone. If the joints surrounding this bone should become inflamed as a result of an injury, cuboid syndrome may develop. Pain is typically felt on the outside of the foot, near the bottom of the fourth and fifth toes. Additionally, some patients may experience discomfort in the middle of the foot. Research has shown this ailment may be more common among athletes and dancers than of the rest of the population. Overusing the foot is also a common cause of cuboid syndrome. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this condition often include swelling, difficulty in walking, and limited range of motion. Mild relief may be found when the foot is elevated, and when the activity that caused this condition is temporarily eliminated. If you have cuboid syndrome, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can assist you with the best course of treatment.
Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.
Causes
The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:
- Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
- Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
- Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.
Symptoms
A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.
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.
