Ingrown toenails occur when the edges of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, and swelling. Common causes include improper nail trimming, tight footwear, and foot injuries. Symptoms include throbbing pain and discomfort, especially when wearing shoes. Treatment typically begins with conservative measures like soaking the foot and using roomy shoes. However, for persistent cases, the Winograd procedure may be necessary. This surgical method involves removing the ingrown portion of the nail and the underlying tissue to prevent the nail from growing back incorrectly. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, minimizing discomfort and ensuring a quick recovery. A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating ingrown toenails, providing personalized care and expert guidance. If you are experiencing symptoms, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. They can offer effective treatments, including the Winograd procedure, to relieve your pain and restore your foot health.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry Associates. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Holmdel and Middletown, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Custom foot orthotics are an effective treatment for reducing first-step pain in people with unilateral plantar fasciopathy, a painful condition that affects one foot. This affliction involves the thick band of tissue known as the plantar fascia on the bottom of one foot, usually causing discomfort in the heel or arch, especially with the first steps after rest. Custom orthotics are designed to fit the specific shape and needs of the affected foot, offering better support and cushioning. By providing targeted support to the arch and heel, orthotics reduce the strain on the plantar fascia, the ligament causing the pain. This helps to ease discomfort, especially during the first steps of the day. Unlike generic insoles, custom orthotics are tailored to the individual's foot, improving alignment and reducing stress on the fascia. Over time, they can significantly improve pain levels and help prevent the condition from worsening. If you have heel pain, in one or both feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment, which may involve prescribing custom orthotics.

If you’re experiencing foot discomfort, have a history of foot and ankle injuries, or are interested in exploring Custom orthotics, don’t hesitate to contact one of our podiatrists at Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry Associates. Our doctors is dedicated to offering the care required to help you remain pain-free and stay on your feet. 

What are Custom Orthotics?

Custom orthotics refer to custom inserts designed for placement in different shoe types, including athletic and formal footwear, with the purpose of alleviating a spectrum of foot-related problems such as flat feet, heel pain, and overall foot discomfort. These inserts are instrumental in providing relief and comfort for a diverse range of foot conditions, including heel pain, and can also act as a proactive approach to injury prevention. 

Medical Grade Shoe Inserts: 

A diverse array of shoe inserts is available for addressing foot pain, heel discomfort, and minor issues. For instance, you can place arch supports in your shoes to rectify overarched or flat feet, and gel and cushioned insoles are frequently chosen for the comfort and relief they provide from foot and heel pain by reducing pressure. 

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

Open wounds on the feet are common injuries that vary in type and severity. Types include abrasions or scrapes, lacerations or deep cuts, punctures, and ulcers. These wounds are prone to infection without proper care, especially since feet are often exposed to bacteria. In severe cases, untreated wounds can lead to complications like cellulitis, abscess formation, and even tissue death that require more intensive intervention. Basic treatment includes cleaning the wound, applying an antiseptic, and covering it with a sterile dressing. Podiatrists may recommend antibiotics for infections, debridement to remove dead tissue, and wound care products to promote healing and prevent complications. If you have a foot wound due to an underlying medical condition like diabetes, or if you notice signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or worsening pain, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for care.

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 Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry 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 feel free to contact one of our offices located in Holmdel and Middletown, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A plantar fibroma is a benign tumor that develops in the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot. Typically found in the arch, it appears as a firm lump that may cause discomfort during walking or standing. Diagnosing a plantar fibroma involves a thorough medical history and physical examination, where a podiatrist will assess the lump's size, location, and texture. Imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI scans may be employed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. The exact causes of plantar fibromas remain unclear, though factors such as genetics, trauma, and certain medical conditions may contribute to their development. Having a plantar fibroma can be uncomfortable. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you relief options.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Plantar Fibroma

A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.

What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?

While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.

What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?

There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.

Treatment and Prevention

A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:

• Steroid injections
• Orthotics
• Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump 

Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.

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

Partial nail avulsion is a surgical procedure used to treat ingrown toenails, a condition where the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain and inflammation. This procedure involves the removal of the affected portion of the toenail to alleviate discomfort and prevent recurrence. During the procedure, a podiatrist first administers a local anesthetic to numb the toe, ensuring minimal discomfort. Once the area is numb, the doctor carefully lifts the ingrown edge of the nail and removes it, allowing the surrounding tissue to heal. In some cases, a chemical agent may be applied to prevent the nail from growing back in an ingrown manner. Recovery typically involves keeping the area clean and dry, with follow-up care to monitor healing. This treatment can provide significant relief for individuals suffering from painful ingrown toenails. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this type of minor foot surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Pain in the ball of the foot, also known as metatarsalgia, can be uncomfortable and disrupt daily activities. Symptoms include sharp, aching, or burning pain under the toes, especially when walking or standing. Causes range from overuse, wearing ill-fitting shoes, high-impact activities, and foot deformities like bunions or hammertoes. Risk factors include high arches, being overweight, and certain foot shapes that place extra pressure on the metatarsal bones. If left untreated, metatarsalgia can lead to more serious issues, such as stress fractures or chronic foot pain. Diagnosis often involves a physical exam, imaging tests like X-rays, and a review of activity levels and footwear habits. Treatment options may include rest, wearing cushioned insoles or orthotics, and supportive shoes. In rare instances, surgery to correct the underlying issue may be required. If you are experiencing pain in the ball of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry 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 one of our offices located in Holmdel and Middletown, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle pain often directly impacts strength, balance, range of motion, and stability. When the ankle is injured or weakened, it may lead to pain, making it difficult to perform everyday movements. This pain can reduce ankle strength, as the muscles and tendons may not function optimally due to discomfort. Over time, this weakness can further affect balance, increasing the risk of falls or re-injury. Limited range of motion is another consequence, as pain restricts the joint’s ability to move freely, causing stiffness. Ankle instability can also develop when the ligaments are damaged or weakened, making the ankle prone to giving way during physical activity. If you are experiencing ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry Associates. Our doctors 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 tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• 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 one of our offices located in Holmdel and Middletown, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Custom orthotics are often the first step in treating plantar fasciitis because they address the root cause of the condition or improper foot mechanics. By providing targeted support to the arch and heel, orthotics reduce strain on the plantar fascia, the ligament that becomes inflamed and causes pain. Unlike generic insoles, custom orthotics are tailored to an individual’s foot shape and gait, ensuring a precise fit and more effective relief. As they correct abnormal foot positioning, they can prevent further damage and promote healing. Orthotics also work best in new athletic shoes and in conjunction with other treatments, like stretching exercises and anti-inflammatory medications, for a comprehensive approach to recovery. Starting with orthotics can often reduce the need for more invasive treatments, such as injections or surgery, making inserts a preferred first-line option for many podiatrists who treat plantar fasciitis. If you have pain from plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you seek help from a podiatrist in determining how custom orthotics can help you.

Experience a transformative solution to heel pain and foot pain through the personalized benefits of custom orthotics and shoe inserts. If you’re grappling with the persistent agony of plantar fasciitis, these customized inserts are designed to alleviate the strain on the plantar fascia, providing targeted relief. Engineered to adapt to your unique foot anatomy, custom orthotics tackle not only plantar fasciitis but also general foot and heel pain, offering unparalleled support and comfort. Don’t let every step be a reminder of discomfort; step into a world of tailored well-being. Say farewell to the limitations imposed by heel pain and embrace the freedom of pain-free mobility. Invest in your foot health and redefine your daily stride with the transformative power of custom orthotics and shoe inserts, ensuring each step is a step towards lasting comfort. 

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