Plantar fasciitis is a condition that affects the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot, known as the plantar fascia. It often appears as sharp heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of standing. The condition develops when this tissue becomes irritated or strained from repeated stress. Common causes include overuse, poor foot support, tight calf muscles, and long hours of standing on hard surfaces. Risk factors include obesity, flat feet, high arches, and wearing non-supportive footwear. Over time, the pain may become more frequent and interfere with daily movement. A podiatrist can diagnose plantar fasciitis, evaluate foot mechanics, and provide targeted treatment to reduce inflammation and improve function. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option 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 and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot pain can develop from injuries, joint problems, or strain placed on the feet. Common causes include plantar fasciitis, bunions, and stress fractures. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot becomes irritated. This causes heel pain that is often worse with the first steps in the morning. Bunions form when the joint at the base of the big toe shifts out of position and leads to swelling and discomfort. Stress fractures are small cracks in the bone that can happen from repeated impact activities, like running. Other causes of foot pain include nerve irritation, tendon inflammation, and arthritis. Symptoms include swelling, stiffness, burning sensations, or pain while walking. A podiatrist can examine the foot and perform imaging tests to confirm the cause. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that  you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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.

Diabetic foot disease refers to a group of serious foot problems that develop when diabetes affects circulation, nerve function, and the body’s ability to heal properly. Reduced feeling in the feet may prevent people from noticing cuts, blisters, pressure sores, or injuries before they become severe. Poor blood flow can also slow healing and increase the risk of infection. Many patients first notice numbness, tingling, swelling, skin discoloration, or changes in foot shape. Without treatment, these problems may lead to deep infections, tissue damage, or ulcers, which are open sores that can become difficult to heal. A podiatrist can examine the feet for early warning signs, evaluate circulation and nerve function, treat wounds, and help reduce pressure that contributes to skin breakdown. Ongoing diabetic foot care may lower the risk of serious complications and improve long-term foot health. If you have diabetes and notice changes in your feet, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for care.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, 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.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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.

Toenail fungus is a common infection that affects the nail and surrounding tissue. The nail may appear thickened, yellow, white, or brittle, and it can become distorted or separate from the nail bed. Some people notice a mild odor or debris beneath the nail. In certain cases, the area may feel uncomfortable, especially in tight shoes. Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments and infections can develop from walking barefoot in public areas, wearing damp footwear, or having small cracks in the skin or nail. A podiatrist can evaluate the nail and may confirm the infection through testing to guide treatment. Care may include topical medications, oral antifungal therapy, or debridement to reduce thickness and improve medication effectiveness. Early treatment can help prevent the infection from spreading or worsening. If you have toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

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 Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry 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 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.