Items filtered by date: September 2025

Tuesday, 30 September 2025 00:00

Proper Care for Small or Large Foot Wounds

A cut on the skin is known as a laceration. If a laceration develops on the foot, it is beneficial to provide immediate care to help prevent painful foot conditions from arising. If the cut is small it may be treated with surgical tape, however larger cuts may require stitches. An x-ray may need to be performed if a piece of glass or small rock has entered the skin. Maintaining proper foot care can help with healing any existing wounds. This can be done by keeping the affected area clean and dry, and it may be helpful to use an antibiotic cream. If you would like additional information about how to care for foot wounds, please consult with a podiatrist.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Princeton Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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

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Tuesday, 23 September 2025 00:00

Risk Factors for Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is an infection that develops when fungi invade the nail, leading to thickened, brittle, or discolored nails. It spreads easily in warm, moist environments such as locker rooms, public showers, and tight shoes that trap moisture. Risk factors include diabetes, weakened immunity, poor circulation, or a history of athlete’s foot. Symptoms often include yellowing nails, crumbling edges, foul odor, or discomfort while walking. Left untreated, the infection can worsen and spread. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, provide targeted treatments, and prevent recurrence with professional guidance. If you notice signs of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication. 

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Princeton Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

  • Warped or oddly shaped nails
  • Yellowish nails
  • Loose/separated nail
  • Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
  • Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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

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Tuesday, 16 September 2025 00:00

Care From a Podiatrist for Bunion Management

A bunion, medically known as hallux valgus, is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, as the tip of the toe angles inward toward the others. Bunions develop over time due to pressure on the joint, often from wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, genetics, or structural abnormalities of the foot. Risk factors include high-arched feet, arthritis, and occupations or activities that place repeated stress on the feet. Symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, and difficulty wearing shoes comfortably. A podiatrist can evaluate the condition, recommend orthotics, suggest proper footwear, provide treatments to reduce discomfort, and discuss surgical options, if necessary. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment solutions.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Princeton Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors 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 offices located in Princeton, and West Windsor, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Wednesday, 10 September 2025 00:00

Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!

Tuesday, 09 September 2025 00:00

A Permanent Solution for Ingrown Toenails

An ingrown toenail can cause repeated discomfort, swelling, and even infection if it continues to grow improperly into the surrounding skin. While temporary relief may be found with soaks or trimming, these methods rarely provide lasting results. For individuals dealing with persistent pain, a more definitive treatment is available. A podiatrist can perform a minor procedure that removes the part of the nail responsible for the problem. In many cases, the nail root is treated so the edge will not grow back. This approach prevents the cycle of recurring irritation and allows the surrounding skin to heal completely. The procedure is usually quick, performed in the office, and recovery is often easier than expected. If you are struggling with repeated ingrown toenails, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist to discuss a permanent solution.

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 one of our podiatrists of Princeton Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors 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 offices located in Princeton, and West Windsor, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Foot pain can interfere with daily activities, exercise, and overall comfort. It may be caused by iplantar fasciitis, bunions, arthritis, flat feet, sports injuries, or simply wearing shoes that do not fit well. Because the foot is made up of many bones, joints, and soft tissues, even small problems can create significant discomfort. To determine the cause, a podiatrist will take a medical history, examine the foot, and may use imaging like X-rays or ultrasound for a clearer view. An accurate diagnosis is important since many foot conditions share similar symptoms. Treatment varies depending on the diagnosis and may include custom orthotics, targeted exercises, medications, or improved footwear. More advanced cases may require procedures or surgery. If foot pain continues, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to ensure you get the right treatment and prevent the pain from worsening.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Princeton Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Read more about Foot Pain
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