Podiatry Blog | Foot Doctor Holmdel, NJ 07733 and Middletown, NJ 07748

Deciding on Toenail Removal

Tuesday, 05 May 2026

Reasons for toenail removal often relate to ongoing pain or damage that does not improve with standard care. An ingrown toenail is a common cause, where the nail edge grows into the skin and leads to swelling and infection. Thick, discolored nails from a fungal infection can also require removal when the nail becomes painful or unstable. Trauma from an injury may damage the nail so severely that it cannot grow back normally. In some cases, repeated infections or deformity make removal the best option to restore comfort. A podiatrist can examine the toe, explain the problem, and perform a safe, in-office procedure to remove part or all of the nail. The procedure is done with numbing medicine to keep you comfortable. This helps relieve pain and allows healthier nail growth. If you have constant pain from a toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for help.

Toe pain can 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.

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 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.

Is It Rheumatoid Arthritis or Gout?

Tuesday, 28 April 2026

Foot pain can sometimes be caused by rheumatoid arthritis or gout, each affecting the joints in different ways. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that often causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in multiple joints. The joints may feel warm, appear swollen, and become increasingly stiff, especially in the morning or after rest. Over time, joint shape may change, leading to deformities and difficulty walking. Gout typically presents as a sudden and intense attack of pain, often affecting the big toe. The joint may become red, hot, and extremely tender, sometimes developing overnight. This occurs due to a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joint. A podiatrist can help distinguish between these conditions through examination and testing. They can then coordinate care that may include medication, supportive footwear, and custom orthotics to protect the joints. If you have foot pain from rheumatoid arthritis or gout, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

Swelling and pain in the feet
Stiffness in the feet
Pain on the ball or sole of feet
Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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.

Defining Gout and Its Symptoms

Tuesday, 21 April 2026

Gout is a painful form of arthritis that often affects the big toe, although it can also involve the ankle or other joints in the foot. It develops when uric acid builds up in the body and forms sharp crystals inside a joint. A gout attack may begin suddenly, often at night, with intense pain, redness, swelling, and warmth. The joint may look shiny, swollen, and very tender, and even light pressure from a sheet or shoe can feel severe. Triggers include certain foods, alcohol, dehydration, medical conditions, or a family history of gout. A podiatrist can often recognize the signs of gout during an exam, and may recommend imaging or lab testing to help confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options include anti-inflammatory medication, footwear guidance, joint protection, and coordination with your other doctors to help manage uric acid levels and prevent future attacks. If you have gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Biebel & DeCotiis Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

Custom Orthotics for High Heels

Thursday, 16 April 2026

Custom Orthotics help you not have to choose between style and comfort. With Custom Orthotics designed for high heels, you can walk with confidence, knowing your feet are supported. Custom Orthotics help distribute pressure evenly, reducing the risk of pain and discomfort. Whether it's a day at the office or a night on the town, make every step graceful and pain-free. Discover the magic of Custom Orthotics for high heels by calling our office today.

How Muscle Imbalance in the Feet Affects Movement

Tuesday, 14 April 2026

Muscle imbalance in the feet can lead to a variety of physical problems and altered patterns of movement over time. When certain muscles are weaker or tighter than others, the foot may not function properly during walking or standing. This imbalance can place abnormal stress on the joints of the foot, which may affect gait and lead to discomfort or instability. As movement patterns change, additional strain can develop in the ankles, knees, hips, and lower back. Risk factors may include wearing poor footwear, overuse, injury, or structural issues. Without proper care, these imbalances can worsen and interfere with daily activity. A podiatrist can help by evaluating foot function, correcting imbalances, and providing targeted treatment. If you have foot pain, discomfort, or changes while walking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment solutions.

If you have any 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.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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.

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