Items filtered by date: February 2024

Recovering from a broken toe can be a frustrating journey, but with the right exercises, you can expedite the healing process and regain strength and flexibility in your toe. Start with passive toe exercises, where you sit comfortably and use gentle movements to bend your toe forward and backward, gradually increasing flexibility. Toe curls help to strengthen the muscles surrounding the toe, promoting stability and mobility. Towel scrunches provide a great opportunity to work on grip strength and dexterity by using your toes to scrunch a towel towards you and then push it back. Marble pick-ups add a fun and challenging element to your routine as you aim to pick up marbles with your toes and place them into a cup, which improves coordination and control. Lastly, the towel stretch helps to elongate the muscles and tissues in the toe, enhancing flexibility and reducing stiffness. Consistency is key, so aim to incorporate these exercises into your daily routine to support a speedy recovery. If you need help in dealing with a broken toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Wendy K. Stinson, DPM from New Jersey. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Parsippany-Troy Hills, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toenail fungus, a common and contagious nail infection, can be impacted by footwear. Understanding how shoes can contribute to toenail fungus is the first step toward the prevention and recurrence of fungal infections. Tight, ill-fitting shoes create the right environment for fungus to grow, because these shoes trap sweat and moisture and provide a warm, dark space. Airflow helps keep feet dry, but tighter shoes often don’t have good ventilation. On the other hand, breathable, moisture-wicking footwear can reduce the risk of toenail fungus. Fungal infections are contagious, so it’s best to avoid sharing shoes. Regularly disinfecting shoes can also help prevent the spread of fungal infections. Not only are your feet happier overall when you prioritize comfort, proper fit, and breathability in your shoes, but you also minimize the likelihood of toenail fungus taking hold and persisting. If you suspect toenail fungus, it is suggested you consult with a podiatrist who can provide a treatment plan and personalized recommendations for footwear. 

For more information about treatment, contact Wendy K. Stinson, DPM of New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Parsippany-Troy Hills, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Falls among older adults are a common concern, with more than one in four individuals aged 65 or older experiencing a fall each year. Numerous factors contribute to falls in older adults, including age-related changes, such as diminished vision, hearing, reflexes, and muscle mass, all of which can impact balance. Additionally, medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, neuropathy, and thyroid disorders often compromise stability. Other factors include mobility issues such as gait abnormalities, muscle weakness, and abrupt changes in blood pressure. Medications can increase the risk of falls by inducing side effects like dizziness or confusion. Foot problems, including painful conditions and wearing unsuitable footwear, such as high heels or backless shoes, further add to the likelihood of falling. Environmental factors, consisting of slippery floors or inadequate lighting at home or in the community, also pose significant hazards. Prevention tips include seeking appropriate medical care, wearing supportive footwear, and creating a safe living environment. If concerns about foot health or falls prevention arise, it is suggested that you seek guidance from a podiatrist who is medically trained to manage these concerns.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Wendy K. Stinson, DPM from New Jersey. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Parsippany-Troy Hills, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.