Ankle instability develops when the ankle repeatedly feels weak or gives way, especially after a previous sprain. A damaged ligament, which is the strong band of tissue that connects bones, does not always heal with enough strength to keep the ankle stable. As a result, the ankle can feel unreliable while walking, climbing stairs, or changing direction. Risk factors include previous ankle sprains, weak ankle support, and playing sports that involve quick turns. Ankle instability also affects people whose jobs require standing or walking for long periods. Ignoring these symptoms can increase the chance of another injury and can place extra stress on nearby joints. 

A podiatrist evaluates the ankle to determine why it feels unstable and whether damaged ligaments or other structures are contributing to the problem. They check ankle movement, strength, and balance. Imaging tests, like X-rays or an MRI scan, can help reveal ligament damage or other injuries. Treatment focuses on improving ankle stability and reducing the risk of repeated sprains. A podiatrist can recommend ankle-support devices that match your condition. Custom orthotics can improve foot alignment and reduce strain on the ankle. Bracing also helps protect the joint during daily activities. When ligament damage is severe or repeated ankle sprains continue despite treatment, surgery can restore stability by repairing or rebuilding the damaged ligaments.

Prompt treatment gives the ankle the best chance to become more stable and comfortable. Delaying care can lead to repeated injuries, reduced confidence while walking, and damage to the cartilage that cushions the joint. A podiatrist continues to monitor healing and adjusts treatment based on your progress. Regular follow-up visits help confirm that the ankle is becoming stronger and more stable. Early diagnosis also helps patients return to work, sports, and daily activities with greater confidence. If you have a feeling that your ankle is giving way, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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.

Arthritis can make every step difficult by affecting joints in the feet and ankles. It causes pain, swelling, and stiffness that can limit movement and disrupt daily activities. Some people notice morning symptoms, while others feel pain after standing. Types that affect the feet include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. Osteoarthritis develops as joint cartilage wears down because of age or injury. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system attacks healthy joint tissue. Gout develops when crystals collect inside a joint, causing sudden pain and swelling. A podiatrist can identify the type and explain how it affects the feet.

Arthritis can make walking and standing harder. Pain can affect the toes, the ball of the foot, the middle of the foot, or the ankles. Swelling can make shoes feel tight, while stiffness can reduce joint movement. Some patients develop bone spurs, which are extra areas of bone near damaged joints. Others notice changes in toe position or foot shape. These changes can place added pressure on nearby tissues. Arthritis can affect one foot or both feet, depending on the type. An early evaluation can identify joint damage and guide treatment before symptoms become more severe.

A podiatrist begins with an examination of the feet and ankles. The visit includes reviewing symptoms, checking joint movement, and watching how the patient walks. X-rays and other imaging scans can show joint damage, loss of joint space, and changes in bone structure. After making a diagnosis, the podiatrist can recommend custom orthotics, braces, or other medical treatments that reduce pressure and improve comfort. The podiatrist can also suggest shoes that provide proper support and enough room for swollen joints. Surgery is considered when joint damage is severe and other treatments do not provide enough relief. If you have symptoms of arthritis in the feet or ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief, treatment, and management solutions.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best 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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Blisters develop when repeated friction or pressure causes the upper layers of the skin to separate. The space between the layers fills with fluid, creating a small pocket that protects the damaged skin underneath. Blisters frequently appear on the heels, toes, or the balls of the feet. Wearing shoes that are too tight or shoes that lack proper support can increase friction and lead to blister formation. Long periods of activity, moisture, and foot deformities also can increase the risk. Symptoms include a raised area filled with clear fluid, tenderness, and pain while walking. Some blisters can break open, leaving the skin exposed and increasing the chance of infection. Patients with diabetes or poor circulation should receive prompt evaluation because even a small blister can become a serious foot problem.

A podiatrist performs a thorough examination to determine the cause of the blister and whether signs of infection are present. The evaluation includes checking the size and location of the blister, the condition of the surrounding skin, and the overall health of the foot. The podiatrist also looks for foot conditions, like bunions or hammertoes, that increase pressure and friction. Identifying the underlying cause is important because blisters are likely to return when the source of the problem is not corrected. Patients with repeated blisters can benefit from a complete foot evaluation to improve comfort and reduce future injuries.

Treatment focuses on protecting the skin while reducing pressure on the affected area. A podiatrist can safely drain a large or painful blister when necessary while preserving the healthy skin that covers it. Care also includes custom orthotics that improve foot alignment and distribute pressure more evenly. The podiatrist can recommend shoes that fit properly and provide good support to reduce friction while walking. Patients with infected blisters or deeper skin injuries receive prompt treatment to protect foot health and prevent complications. If you have symptoms of blisters, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, 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.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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.