Foot warts, also known as plantar warts, are small growths that develop on the soles of the feet due to the human papillomavirus, or HPV. They often appear as rough, thickened areas of skin with tiny black dots, which are clotted blood vessels. Walking or standing can press the wart inward, causing discomfort or pain. These warts are contagious and can spread in moist environments such as locker rooms or around pools. Over-the-counter treatments may help mild cases, but persistent or painful warts often require professional care. A podiatrist can use safe and effective methods such as cryotherapy, laser therapy, or topical treatments to remove them while reducing the chance of recurrence. If you notice a growth on your foot that does not heal or causes pain, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Scott Amoss, DPM from Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists. our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms when friction irritates the skin, often caused by long hikes, wearing tight shoes, or moisture buildup. Hikers are especially prone to blisters due to repetitive movement and heat inside footwear. To prevent them, wear moisture-wicking socks, change them if they become damp, and pay attention to any hot spots that feel irritated before a blister forms. Applying protective padding or adjusting footwear early can stop blisters from developing. A podiatrist can treat existing blisters, recommend proper footwear, and provide advice to prevent recurrence. If you have developed foot blisters from hiking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment and prevention tips.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Scott Amoss, DPM of Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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

When arthritis develops in the toes, the joints can become swollen, achy and less flexible, making everyday movement harder. The condition happens as the smooth cushioning inside the joint wears down, which allows the bones to grind together. This can create discomfort, stiffness, and sometimes visible changes in the way the toes look or bend. Many people find it painful to walk long distances, stand for extended periods of time, or wear certain shoes. Age, past injuries, and inherited traits can all increase the likelihood of arthritis in the toes. While it cannot be cured, there are effective ways to manage it. Wearing supportive footwear, custom orthotics, targeted stretching exercises, anti-inflammatory treatments, and, in some cases, surgery may ease symptoms and improve mobility. If toe pain is limiting your comfort or activity, it is recommended that you visit a podiatrist for a personalized treatment plan.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Scott Amoss, DPM from Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

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

Bunions and bunionettes are deformities of the toes. A bunion occurs as a bony lump on the outside of the big toe. It causes the tip of the toe to excessively angle towards the other toes. A bunionette occurs on the pinky toe. Symptoms of a bunion or bunionette are a bulging bump on the side of the affected toe, swelling or redness around the toe, restricted movement, physical discomfort or pain, numbness, and difficulty walking. Both bunions and bunionettes can be caused or made worse by wearing poorly-fitted, tight, or uncomfortable shoes. Orthotics can help ease the pain associated with bunions and bunionettes by distributing the weight of the body evenly along the surface of the foot and relieving pressure on the affected toes. To find out if orthotics may help you with your bunion pain, please consult with a podiatrist. 

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Scott Amoss, DPM from Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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