A foot sprain occurs when a ligament is stretched or torn. A ligament is a strong band of tissue that connects bones and helps keep joints stable. Most foot sprains happen when the foot twists unexpectedly, lands awkwardly, or remains planted while the body turns. Sports, dancing, and other activities that require quick changes in direction are common causes. A mid-foot sprain affects the center of the foot and can make movement difficult because this area helps support body weight. Sprains are generally grouped into three grades. Grade I involves small tears. Grade II involves larger tears. Grade III occurs when a ligament is completely torn or separated from the bone.

Symptoms of a sprained foot include pain, swelling, bruising, and tenderness. Many people have discomfort while walking and notice reduced strength when pushing off the foot. More severe injuries can make it difficult to place weight on the foot. Some patients also experience instability, meaning the foot feels weak or unsteady. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury with a physical examination and imaging tests. These are used to evaluate damage to soft tissues, ligaments, tendons, and muscles that support movement and stability.

Recovery depends on the severity of the injury. Treatment often includes a brace, walking boot, or crutches to protect the foot while healing. As pain and swelling improve, patients gradually return to normal activities. Rehabilitation exercises are frequently recommended to improve flexibility, strength, and balance. Supportive shoes with firm soles can help stabilize the foot while walking. More severe sprains sometimes require surgery to restore stability and proper alignment. Following a treatment plan carefully can improve healing and reduce the risk of future injuries. If you have sprained your foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists  from Bergen Foot & Ankle. 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 Fort Lee, NJ and Flushing, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toe pain around the metatarsophalangeal, or MTP, joint is a frequent reason patients seek care from a podiatrist. This joint plays a major role in balance and push off during walking. Such toe pain may develop from overuse, arthritis, or pressure from footwear. Common symptoms include aching or sharp pain, stiffness, and swelling. Sometimes it can be accompanied by redness, warmth, and limited motion. The joint may look enlarged or inflamed, and it can feel sore or burning. This is especially true when standing, or bending the toe. Over time, pain may interfere with daily activities and limit comfortable movement. A podiatrist can help by starting with a detailed medical history and physical examination. This can be supported by imaging when needed, to identify the exact cause of the MTP joint pain. Treatment often begins with footwear guidance, padding, or custom orthotics, and may progress to medication, injections, or corrective procedures when appropriate. If you have MTP joint pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Bergen Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

Foot and ankle fractures can happen in many ways, from twisting injuries to falls, sports accidents, or sudden awkward steps. Some breaks occur when the foot rolls inward or outward, placing stress on different bones, ligaments, and joint supports around the ankle. Depending on the force and direction of the injury, damage may range from a simple crack in one bone to more complex injuries involving multiple bones and stabilizing tissues. Symptoms often include swelling, bruising, pain with movement, tenderness, and trouble putting weight on the affected foot. Because some fractures appear similar to severe sprains, proper evaluation is important for an accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. A podiatrist can examine the injury, order imaging when needed, and determine whether support, immobilization, or further treatment is necessary. If you have sudden foot or ankle pain after an injury, it is strongly suggested that you promptly visit a podiatrist for appropriate treatment methods.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Bergen Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet and commonly develops in warm, moist environments. The condition often begins between the toes, but may spread to the soles or sides of the feet. Symptoms include itching, burning, and peeling skin. An uncomfortable rash that may sting or become painful may also occur. In some cases, small blisters or dry flaky patches may appear. Athlete's foot can spread through direct contact with contaminated surfaces, such as locker room floors, public showers, and swimming pools. Shared footwear and towels, sweaty feet, and tight shoes also may create conditions that allow the fungus to thrive. A podiatrist can diagnose the infection by examining the skin and determining whether additional testing is needed. Treatment may include antifungal creams, oral medications for persistent infections, and guidance on keeping the feet clean and dry. Proper footwear and hygiene habits can help reduce the risk of recurrence. If you have athlete's foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Bergen Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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