Calf and ankle problems can limit mobility and increase the risk of injury, but targeted exercises may help strengthen and stretch these areas. Two effective options are calf raises and ankle circles. Calf raises build strength in the lower leg. To do them, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and slowly rise onto the balls of your feet, lifting your heels off the ground. Hold for a moment, then lower back down, and repeat 10 to 15 times. This move strengthens the calf muscles and supports ankle stability. Ankle circles improve flexibility and circulation. Sit or lie down with one leg extended. Slowly rotate your foot in a circular motion, making full, smooth circles. Complete 10 rotations in one direction, then switch. This helps keep the ankle joint mobile and reduces stiffness. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or weakness in your calves or ankles, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Scott Amoss, DPM from Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists. our doctor 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 Whiting and Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis develops when the thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot, known as the plantar fascia, becomes strained and inflamed. This tissue supports the arch and helps absorb impact with each step. When it is irritated, pain is often felt near the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning. A podiatrist can provide an accurate diagnosis and suggest treatments that reduce pressure on the fascia. Supportive shoe inserts, shoes that provide adequate arch support, and custom orthotics may be recommended or prescribed. In addition, stretching exercises to improve flexibility in the Achilles tendon, calf muscles, and the plantar fascia itself can help restore normal foot mechanics and lessen discomfort. Taping or night splints may also be used to keep the foot in a stable position while healing. If you are experiencing foot or heel pain as the result of plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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 Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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.

During pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes significant changes that affect the feet. Increased body mass places extra pressure on the arches, while hormonal shifts, particularly the influx of relaxin, loosen ligaments and joints. The center of gravity is displaced, altering posture and gait. These changes can cause feet to become longer, flatter, and broader, which may lead to discomfort, swelling, or difficulty finding proper footwear. A podiatrist can help by assessing foot structure, recommending supportive shoes or custom orthotics, and providing guidance on exercises to maintain strength and flexibility. If pregnancy related foot changes are causing discomfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for personalized care and support.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Scott Amoss, DPM from Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists. our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the 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 and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.