Plantar warts are small growths that develop on the bottom of the foot after infection with the human papillomavirus, also called HPV. The virus enters through tiny breaks in the skin and causes the outer layer to thicken. Because plantar warts grow on weight-bearing areas of the foot, they are often pushed inward by the pressure of standing and walking. This can make them painful and uncomfortable during everyday activities. Common symptoms include a rough, grainy area of skin, tenderness, and pain when putting weight on the foot. Some plantar warts also contain tiny black dots, which are small blood vessels. Since other foot conditions can look similar, a podiatric evaluation is important to confirm the diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

Plantar warts may appear as a single growth or develop in clusters on the sole of the foot. The discomfort they cause can change the way a person walks, placing additional stress on nearby joints and soft tissues. In some cases, the wart becomes larger or more painful if it is not treated. Although plantar warts are generally not serious, they can interfere with work, exercise, and other daily activities. A thorough podiatry evaluation helps determine the size, location, and severity of the wart while ruling out other causes of foot pain.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating plantar warts using methods that are appropriate for each patient's condition. Professional care focuses on removing the wart, relieving discomfort, and reducing the chance of recurrence. A podiatrist also evaluates the surrounding skin to identify any additional concerns that may require treatment. Early podiatry care may help prevent worsening pain and improve comfort during daily activities. If you have a painful growth on the bottom of your foot or think you may have a plantar wart, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Deborah Rosenfeld from Rosenfeld Podiatry. 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 Marlton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flip-flops are a popular choice for warm weather because they are lightweight and easy to wear. Although they are convenient, they are not designed to provide the same support as well-made walking shoes. Most flip-flops have thin soles and very little arch support. They also require the toes to grip the sandal while walking, which can place extra strain on the muscles and tendons of the foot. Wearing flip-flops for long periods of time can increase the risk of heel pain, arch pain, and tendon irritation. They also provide very little protection from sharp objects or uneven ground. Patients who already have bunions, flat feet, or plantar fasciitis can notice that their symptoms become worse when wearing flip-flops too frequently.

A podiatrist can evaluate foot pain that develops after wearing flip-flops and determine whether another condition is responsible for the discomfort. The examination includes checking foot alignment, flexibility, and muscle strength. The podiatrist also observes how the patient stands and walks to identify movement problems that increase stress on the feet. Shoes that lack proper support can change the way the foot moves and place extra pressure on the heel, arch, and toes. A complete evaluation helps identify the source of the pain and allows the podiatrist to recommend the most appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis can help prevent minor problems from becoming more serious.

Treatment depends on the patient's symptoms and the condition affecting the foot. A podiatrist can recommend shoes that provide better support for daily activities while reducing unnecessary strain on the feet. Care also includes custom orthotics that improve foot alignment and distribute pressure more evenly. Patients with ongoing pain can benefit from stretching and strengthening exercises that improve stability and flexibility. In rare cases, severe damage to tendons or joints can require surgery to restore normal foot function. If you have foot pain related to wearing flip-flops, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Deborah Rosenfeld from Rosenfeld Podiatry. 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 Marlton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Achilles tendon bursitis develops when a bursa becomes irritated near the back of the heel where the tendon attaches. The bursa, a small sac of fluid, helps reduce friction between the tendon and nearby tissues. When it becomes inflamed, pain and swelling can make walking and wearing shoes uncomfortable. Posterior Achilles tendon bursitis affects young women more frequently than other groups. One important risk factor is wearing high-heeled shoes. Another is a Haglund deformity, which is a bony bump on the back of the heel bone. Repeated rubbing between this bony area and the back of a shoe can irritate the bursa and lead to ongoing inflammation. Symptoms include redness, warmth, and tenderness near the back of the heel. 

A podiatrist diagnoses Achilles tendon bursitis by discussing symptoms and examining the back of the heel. The location of the pain and the presence of the tender lump help confirm the diagnosis. Imaging tests also help identify a Haglund deformity or rule out other causes of heel pain. Conditions affecting the Achilles tendon can cause similar discomfort, but they usually do not produce the soft lump that develops with bursitis. An accurate diagnosis is important because treatment depends on identifying the exact source of the pain.

Treatment focuses on reducing irritation surrounding the inflamed bursa and preventing further pressure against the heel. A podiatrist recommends shoes that fit properly and have lower heels. Custom orthotics can improve foot stability and reduce stress on the back of the heel while walking. Protective padding also helps reduce rubbing between the shoe and the irritated area. When symptoms continue despite conservative care, surgery to remove the bony prominence or inflamed tissue can be recommended. If you have Achilles tendon pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Deborah Rosenfeld of Rosenfeld Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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

Ankle pain can make every step feel uncertain and can interfere with work, exercise, and daily routines. The discomfort can begin suddenly after a twist or fall, or it can develop from repeated stress on the joint. The ankle is made up of ligaments, tendons, and cartilage that work together to provide strength and movement. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that connect bones, while tendons connect muscles to bones. When any of these structures become damaged or irritated, pain and swelling can develop. Some people notice stiffness when getting out of bed, while others feel discomfort after spending long periods on their feet. Pain can also affect balance, making it harder to walk with confidence.

Several conditions can lead to ankle pain. An ankle sprain stretches or tears ligaments after the foot twists in an awkward direction. Arthritis causes the joint to become inflamed, leading to pain and reduced movement. Tendon injuries create pain because the tissues that help move the foot become irritated or damaged. Fractures, which are broken bones, also cause severe pain and limit movement. Foot shape, extra body weight, and shoes that lack proper support can place added stress on the ankle. Pain while walking, bruising, and difficulty standing can point to a problem that deserves a careful evaluation. A podiatrist performs a thorough examination, reviews symptoms, and uses imaging studies when appropriate to identify the cause of the discomfort.

Treatment depends on the reason for the ankle pain and the severity of the condition. A podiatrist can recommend custom orthotics to improve foot alignment and reduce stress on the ankle. Bracing can provide added support while injured tissues recover. Physical therapy helps improve strength, flexibility, and balance. Some patients benefit from medication to reduce inflammation. Others require surgery to repair damaged bones, ligaments, or tendons when the injury is severe. Prompt evaluation can reduce the chance of lasting joint problems and help patients return to daily activities with greater comfort and confidence. If you have symptoms of ankle pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Deborah Rosenfeld from Rosenfeld Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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