Items filtered by date: August 2025

Chronic ankle instability is a condition where the ankle frequently gives way, especially during physical activity or walking on uneven surfaces. It often develops from recurrent ankle sprains, multiple ligament injuries, or even a first-time ankle sprain at a young age that did not heal properly. Symptoms may include persistent swelling, pain, and a feeling of weakness or looseness in the ankle. A podiatrist can help by assessing joint stability, taking radiographic images, prescribing strengthening exercises, fitting supportive orthotics, and providing treatments to improve balance and prevent future injuries. If chronic ankle instability is limiting your mobility or causing repeated sprains, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe as the tip of the toe shifts inward toward the others. Common causes include genetics, wearing tight or narrow shoes, arthritis, and foot structure abnormalities. Symptoms typically involve pain, swelling, redness, and difficulty walking, along with visible changes in foot shape. Bunions can feel sore, stiff, or even numb, and may worsen over time, if left untreated.  A podiatrist can help by evaluating the severity of the bunion and developing a personalized treatment plan. Options include footwear recommendations, custom orthotics, pain relief strategies, or, in more advanced cases, bunion surgery. Early intervention is key to preventing long-term discomfort and deformity. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Riverdale, and Englewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pes planus, or flat feet, affects the structure and function of the foot, but the condition presents differently from one person to another. Arch height, foot mechanics, and overall alignment vary, which means a one-size-fits-all approach is rarely effective. For this reason, treatment should be tailored to the individual. Custom orthotics are crafted to support the unique shape and needs of each foot, helping to redistribute pressure and promote better movement. By improving how weight is carried through the foot, these insoles may reduce discomfort and help restore more natural foot function. Over time, they may also support better posture and performance in daily or athletic activities. While not a cure, custom orthotics offer a practical and noninvasive option for managing pes planus. If you are experiencing symptoms related to flat feet, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist to discuss personalized treatment options.

Custom orthotics are often an effective solution for people experiencing heel pain, offering both comfort and correction for the underlying causes of discomfort. Heel pain commonly develops when the natural support of the foot becomes strained or imbalanced, leading to inflammation and irritation in the heel area. Conditions such as plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, or flat feet can all contribute to chronic heel pain that worsens with walking or standing. Custom orthotics are designed to fit the exact shape of your foot, providing the support and alignment necessary to reduce stress on the heel and surrounding tissues.

By redistributing pressure and improving overall foot mechanics, custom orthotics allow the heel to function more efficiently during movement. They cushion each step, absorb shock, and correct abnormal gait patterns that may be contributing to pain. Over time, this consistent support can ease inflammation, protect against re-injury, and enhance comfort during both daily and athletic activities.

Unlike prefabricated insoles, custom orthotics are created from a detailed evaluation that may include digital scans or molds of your feet. This ensures a precise and individualized fit that addresses your specific condition. They can be used in various types of footwear, from athletic shoes to dress styles, making them a versatile option for ongoing relief.

If heel pain is limiting your comfort or activity level, it is suggested that you call our office for more information or to schedule an appointment.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Riverdale, and Englewood, NJ . 

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel to the toes. It is often caused by repetitive strain, prolonged standing, or wearing unsupportive footwear. Risk factors include high arches, flat feet, obesity, and increased activity levels. Symptoms typically include sharp heel pain, especially during the first steps in the morning or after rest. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, recommend stretching exercises, prescribe custom orthotics, and suggest footwear changes. If you are experiencing heel pain that interferes with daily activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Riverdale, and Englewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pain in the big toe can change the way a person walks, especially when caused by a stiff joint at the base of the toe, a condition known as hallux rigidus. This problem develops when the big toe joint wears down over time, making it harder and more painful when it bends. Since this joint helps push the foot off the ground with each step, limited movement often forces people to shift weight to the outside of the foot or avoid rolling through the toes. This change in walking pattern, or gait, can strain other parts of the foot, including the smaller toes, the arch, and the ankle. Over time, this may lead to pain, muscle soreness, or even problems with balance. Some people also notice swelling or a bump on top of the toe joint. A podiatrist can check how the big toe joint moves, look for signs of wear, and offer treatment. Options include medication, shoe support, or surgery, if the joint is badly damaged. If you are experiencing pain in the big toe when you take a step, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. 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 our offices located in Fair Lawn, Riverdale, and Englewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.