A broken toe is a fracture in one of the small bones of the toe, often caused by stubbing it hard, dropping something heavy on it, or sustaining a sports injury. In many cases both bruising and breaking result in pain and swelling. However, a broken toe typically causes sharper pain, possible deformity, and trouble walking, whereas bruising usually improves with rest and time. Proper diagnosis is important to prevent long-term problems, such as stiffness or misalignment. A podiatrist can confirm the injury with X-rays and provide treatment that  includes splinting, taping, or special footwear for protection. Do not ignore persistent pain or swelling. If you have injured your toe, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

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 L. Grossman, 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 Bloomfield, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in the human body, connecting the calf muscles, the gastrocnemius and soleus, to the heel bone, or calcaneus. Structurally, it is composed of dense collagen fibers arranged in parallel bundles that provide both strength and flexibility. These fibers allow the tendon to withstand high tension during activities like walking, running, and jumping. The tendon is surrounded by a sheath that helps reduce friction and provides lubrication for smooth movement. Functionally, the Achilles tendon plays a key role in movement and stability. It transmits the powerful force generated by the calf muscles to lift the heel off the ground, enabling push-off during walking or sprinting. It also helps maintain balance and absorb shock during impact. Because of the stress it endures, the Achilles tendon is prone to overuse injuries, especially in athletes and active individuals. If you have Achilles tendon pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Wendy L. Grossman, DPM of New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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

Fungal nails, medically known as onychomycosis, are caused by fungi infecting the nail bed. This is often due to warm, moist environments, poor foot hygiene, or minor nail injuries. Symptoms typically include thickened, discolored nails that may appear yellow, white, or brown. The toenails can become brittle, crumbly, or distorted, sometimes accompanied by a foul odor. Although fungal nails are often painless, they can cause discomfort when wearing shoes or walking. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose fungal toenail infections through a physical examination and laboratory testing. Treatment options include topical antifungal medication, oral antifungal drugs, or professional nail debridement to remove infected tissue. Because fungal toenail infections can worsen over time and spread to other nails, early diagnosis and treatment are important. To protect your toenail health and prevent further complications, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

For more information about treatment, contact Wendy L. Grossman, 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 contact our office located in Bloomfield, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Falls are a serious concern for seniors, often leading to fractures, sprains, and long-term foot or ankle issues. Simple home modifications can greatly reduce risk. Remove boxes and newspapers from walking paths, tape down loose rugs, use nonslip mats in bathrooms, and install night lights to improve visibility. Staying strong through regular exercise enhances balance and stability. Foot conditions, such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, or neuropathy, can increase fall risk. A podiatrist can assess foot health, recommend supportive footwear or orthotics, and provide exercises to improve balance. If you have fallen and have injured your foot or ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional fall prevention tips.

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 L. Grossman, 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 Bloomfield, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.