Skin is one of the most important organs in the human body. Taking care of the skin covering the feet can be an essential element of maintaining proper foot health. Patients often wonder why dead skin can build up on the feet. There are many different potential explanations for dead skin build-up. For example, when the feet are subject to persistent pounding and friction, this can ultimately lead to dead skin cell build up. Importantly, when the feet are dehydrated and unmoisturized, this can exacerbate dead skin accumulation. When dead skin cells build up over time, it can be important to gently remove that dead skin. An individual might go about doing this in consultation with their podiatrist through exfoliation with a pumice stone. A patient might even use an electric callus remover. If you are someone that struggles with dead skin cell build up on the feet, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for more information.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Princeton Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Princeton and West Windsor, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

If one feels pain in the ball of the foot, it might be from a Morton’s neuroma. This minor, but uncomfortable, condition causes swelling along a nerve in the foot. Why this happens is unclear, but once the swelling occurs, it can pressure surrounding bones and ligaments and cause inflammation and pain. One might feel a burning or numbness from the ball of the foot to the toes, and it can feel as if there is a lump underfoot. A Morton’s neuroma often develops between one foot’s third and fourth toes. It is more common in women, perhaps from wearing high heels or narrow-toed shoes, which can shift bones out of alignment and increase the risk of this affliction. Those who carry extra weight are also more apt to have this condition. If you have pain in the ball of your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Princeton Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Princeton and West Windsor, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

There are various reasons why people may experience swollen feet. Having high blood pressure is a common reason that feet can swell, and limiting salt intake and drinking plenty of water may help to reduce this. Research has shown that many women who are premenopausal develop swollen feet, possibly as a result of their body preparing to start the next phase of their life. Existing medical conditions may lead to having swollen feet, including diabetes, poor circulation, or heart disease. Integrating a gentle exercise and stretching routine may help to control swollen feet, in addition to losing extra weight, if applicable. People who stand for long periods of time during their work day may have swollen feet, and it can be helpful to wear shoes that fit correctly. The arthritic condition that is known as gout may cause the feet to swell, and relief may be found when eating habits are changed. If you have swollen feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer you correct treatment solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Princeton Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Princeton and West Windsor, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.