A toe fracture can occur when a toe is stubbed, struck, or caught against an object. Most toe fractures heal without major problems, but fractures involving a symphalangeal toe can require a longer healing period. Symphalangism is a condition present from birth in which two bones in a toe are joined at the joint between them. It most often affects the smaller toes. Because the joined bones create a stiffer toe, the area has less flexibility when force is placed on it. This can increase the chance of a fracture after an injury. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and tenderness around the injured toe. Some patients also have difficulty walking comfortably because of pain and stiffness.

A podiatrist can examine the toe and use X-rays to determine whether a fracture is present. The examination helps identify the location and severity of the injury. Fractures involving a symphalangeal toe can behave differently from typical fractures of the smaller toes. Healing can take longer because the joined bones have different structural and blood-flow characteristics. In reported cases, patients treated without surgery eventually reached complete healing, but the healing period was longer than expected for many patients. Complete healing took an average of several months, with some fractures requiring substantially longer periods. This delayed healing does not necessarily mean that the fracture will fail to heal. Regular evaluation helps track changes and confirms that the bone is progressing toward healing.

Treatment depends on the location and condition of the fracture. A podiatrist can monitor the toe with follow-up examinations and X-rays to track healing. Care can also include protecting the injured toe and limiting stress placed on the fracture while healing takes place. Most symphalangeal fractures can be managed without surgery when the bones remain properly aligned. A podiatrist can determine whether additional treatment is necessary based on the fracture's position, symptoms, and healing progress. Recognizing the possibility of delayed healing allows appropriate monitoring and helps support a safe return to normal activity. If symptoms of a toe fracture or symphalangeal toe injury are present, it is suggested that an appointment be made with a podiatrist for a  diagnosis and appropriate 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 Dr. Douglas Mckay 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 one of our offices located in Caldwell, and Galloway, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot blisters are fluid-filled pockets that form within the upper layers of the skin as a response to irritation or injury. They commonly develop on weight-bearing areas of the foot and can quickly become painful and limiting. While often considered minor, foot blisters can be disabling when they interfere with walking, standing, or athletic performance. Without proper care, they may worsen or become difficult to treat, especially if the skin breaks and becomes exposed.

Symptoms of foot blisters include redness, swelling, and a raised area filled with clear fluid. The affected area may feel tender or painful, particularly when pressure is applied. As the blister enlarges, walking can become uncomfortable, and the surrounding skin may feel warm or irritated. If the blister ruptures, it can expose sensitive tissue and increase the risk of infection.

The most common cause of foot blisters is friction, which occurs when the skin repeatedly rubs against footwear or another surface. Pressure from  wearing tight shoes, prolonged walking, or repetitive motion can intensify this effect. Other causes include burns from heat, exposure to freezing conditions, and allergic reactions to certain materials. Each of these factors can damage the skin and lead to blister formation.

Risk factors include ill-fitting shoes, excessive moisture, high activity levels, and sensitive skin. Preventive strategies include choosing properly fitted footwear, keeping feet dry, and using protective padding in high friction areas. Early care can reduce discomfort and prevent complications. If you have one or more blisters on your feet,  it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and prevention tips.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay of New Jersey . 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 one of our offices located in Caldwell, and Galloway, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ankle fracture is a break in one or more bones that form the ankle joint. The injury can involve the tibia, which is the larger lower leg bone. It can also involve the fibula, the smaller bone on the outside of the leg. Less often, the talus, which connects the leg to the foot, is affected. The location of the break helps determine whether the ankle remains stable or becomes unstable. A stable fracture keeps the joint properly lined up. An unstable fracture allows the bones to shift. Types of ankle fractures depend on which part of the ankle is broken. Some involve the outside of the ankle, some affect the inside, and others involve both sides. The most serious fractures can affect three areas of the ankle joint. These injuries usually require more advanced treatment because the bones are no longer properly lined up.

Fractured ankles happen when the bones are forced beyond their normal limits. A sudden twist while playing sports can cause a break. Falling on uneven ground can also fracture the ankle. Car accidents and other high-impact injuries create enough force to break one or more bones. The type of injury depends on the direction and strength of the force. It also depends on the position of the foot when the accident occurs. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty standing or walking. 

A podiatrist can help by examining the ankle and ordering imaging studies to identify the exact location and pattern of the fracture. This information guides treatment and helps protect the ankle joint from further damage. Stable fractures sometimes heal without surgery, while unstable fractures may require surgery to restore proper alignment. Regular follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to monitor healing and check that the bones remain in the correct position. If you have symptoms of a broken ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

Foot problems from wearing high heels develop due to abnormal pressure distribution and altered foot mechanics. High heels shift body weight forward onto the forefoot, increasing stress on the toes and ball of the foot. This repeated pressure can lead to structural changes and painful conditions such as bunions, corns, hammertoe, and pump bump, known as Haglund’s deformity. These issues often worsen with prolonged wear and poorly fitted shoes. Bunions are bony prominences that form at the base of the big toe when the joint becomes misaligned. Symptoms include swelling, redness, and pain during walking. Corns are thickened areas of skin that develop from friction and pressure, often causing tenderness. Hammertoe occurs when the toe bends abnormally at the joint, leading to stiffness and discomfort. Pump bump, also known as a prominence at the back of the heel, results from repeated rubbing against the shoe and may cause irritation and swelling.

Common symptoms across these conditions include pain, bruising, and difficulty wearing shoes comfortably. Some individuals experience weakness in the foot or instability while walking. Risk factors include frequent high heel use, narrow toe boxes, and extended periods of standing or walking. Genetics and foot structure may also increase susceptibility to these deformities.

Preventive strategies focus on reducing pressure and supporting proper alignment. Choosing shoes with a wider toe box, lower heel height, and proper cushioning can help minimize strain. Alternating footwear and limiting high heel use allow the feet to recover. Stretching and strengthening exercises improve flexibility and stability. Early care can prevent progression and reduce discomfort. If you have foot pain caused by wearing high heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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