Podiatry Blog | Foot Doctor Manalapan NJ 07726

The Role of the Smaller Toes

Tuesday, 26 August 2025

The biomechanics of the foot involve a complex interaction of bones, muscles, and ligaments that support movement and stability. The smaller toes, although often overlooked, play an important role in gait and balance by helping to push the body forward and maintain stability during walking and standing. They contribute to even weight distribution and overall foot mechanics, reducing strain on other parts of the foot and lower limb. When the smaller toes are injured or misaligned, balance and movement efficiency can be affected. A podiatrist can assess foot biomechanics, identify problems, and recommend treatments or therapies to restore proper function. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you seek expert care from this type of doctor who can treat various foot conditions.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Charles Marchese from Manalapan Foot & Ankle. Our doctor 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 our office located in Manalapan, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Types and Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot

Tuesday, 19 August 2025

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the feet and toes, producing symptoms such as red, flaky, or cracked skin, especially between the toes or on the soles. Athlete’s foot may also cause soggy or peeling areas, burning or stinging sensations, and itching that worsens after removing socks or shoes. In some cases, painful blisters or ulcers that leak fluid may appear. There are three main types of athlete’s foot. Toe web infections usually begin between the fourth and fifth toes and may cause peeling, rash-like redness, and, in severe cases, green discoloration or foul-smelling discharge. Moccasin infections often begin with soreness and dry, cracked skin on the soles and heels and can cause thickened or discolored toenails that loosen or fall off. Vesicular infections involve small, fluid-filled blisters on the soles or other areas of the feet, and may lead to open sores or bacterial infection. A podiatrist can determine the type of athlete’s foot infection and recommend appropriate care. If you have any of these symptoms, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Charles Marchese from Manalapan Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

Hydrate your feet by using lotion
Exfoliate
Buff off nails
Use of anti-fungal products
Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

It's Time for Beautiful Feet

Thursday, 14 August 2025

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

Understanding Foot Stress Fractures and Recovery

Tuesday, 12 August 2025

A foot stress fracture, also known as a hairline fracture, is a small crack in a bone that develops from repetitive stress or overuse rather than a single traumatic injury. It can occur when the foot twists the wrong way, changes direction quickly, or endures repeated high-impact activities. Recovery can take six weeks to several months, depending on severity and adherence to treatment. A podiatrist can diagnose a stress fracture with imaging, recommend immobilization or protective footwear, and create a personalized plan to promote healing and prevent reinjury. Ignoring symptoms can lead to prolonged pain or complications. If you have foot pain, and think it may be a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment solutions.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Dr. Charles Marchese from Manalapan Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon. Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Manalapan, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

What Every Active Child and Parent Should Know About Sever’s Disease

Tuesday, 05 August 2025

Sever’s disease is an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel, common in physically active children and adolescents. It occurs due to repetitive stress and strain on the heel bone during growth spurts. Risk factors include participation in running or jumping sports, tight calf muscles, and wearing improper footwear. This condition typically affects children between 8 and 14 years old. Symptoms include heel pain, swelling, and difficulty walking or running. A podiatrist can diagnose Sever’s disease, recommend stretching exercises, supportive footwear, activity modifications, and other things to reduce pain and promote healing. If your active child complains of persistent heel pain, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief tips, ensuring a healthy return to activity.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Charles Marchese from Manalapan Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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

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