Items filtered by date: September 2025

Having an X-ray performed is a common method of determining if a toe has been broken. When the toe is stubbed or if a heavy object has dropped on it, a traumatic fracture can occur. The symptoms that may accompany this type of broken toe can include consistent pain, bruising, and the affected toe may appear red. A stress fracture can develop gradually, and this generally happens as a result of repeated stress on and surrounding the bone. Runners can develop stress fractures of the toe. If this occurs, it is beneficial to refrain from this type of activity until the healing process is fully completed. An effective method for treating a broken toe is known as buddy taping. This is accomplished by taping the broken toe to the toe next to it to provide adequate stability as the healing process occurs. If you have broken your toe, please speak with a podiatrist who can effectively treat broken toes.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. 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 Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Turf toe is an injury affecting the first metatarsophalangeal joint at the base of the big toe, often caused by hyperextension or excessive upward bending. Athletes who play on artificial turf or participate in sports requiring sudden stops and pushes are at higher risk. Causes include repetitive stress, trauma, or wearing improper footwear. Symptoms may involve pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty pushing off the foot during movement. Without proper care, turf toe can lead to chronic discomfort or long-term joint problems. A podiatrist can diagnose the injury, provide treatment, and recommend supportive footwear. If you have toe pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay of New Jersey . Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Caldwell, and Galloway, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Flat feet, or fallen arches, occur when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the soles to make contact with the ground. This condition can create difficulties with walking, running, or standing for long periods, and often leads to fatigue, pain, and alignment issues. Types of flat feet include flexible flat foot, where the arch appears when not bearing weight, tight Achilles tendon, which limits ankle flexibility, and posterior tibial dysfunction, where tendon weakness causes arch collapse over time. A podiatrist can assess the type of flat feet you have and recommend orthotics, stretching exercises, and supportive footwear in addition to providing treatments to reduce pain and improve function. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine which type it is, and offer effective relief and management tips.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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.

Hallux rigidus is a form of arthritis that affects the big toe joint, making it stiff and painful. The condition often begins with mild discomfort when walking or bending the toe, but over time the joint loses flexibility. People may notice swelling, difficulty wearing certain shoes, or pain that worsens with activity. In advanced cases, even standing can become uncomfortable as the joint becomes increasingly rigid. This problem usually develops from wear and tear on the joint, past injuries, or inherited foot structure. Because the big toe plays a key role in movement, hallux rigidus can significantly affect mobility and daily comfort. Early treatment may include anti-inflammatory medication, shoe modifications, or custom orthotics to ease pressure. If the joint damage is more severe, surgery may be considered. If you have pain in your big toe joint, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to ensure the condition is managed properly, mobility preserved, and pain reduced.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. 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.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Heel fissures, often called cracked heels, occur when the skin surrounding the heel becomes dry, thickened, and splits open. They are not only uncomfortable but can also become painful and prone to infection, if left untreated. People who stand for long hours of time, wear open-backed shoes, or live in dry climates are more likely to develop them. Seniors, individuals with diabetes, and those with skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, are also at greater risk. Treatment begins with softening the skin through regular moisturizing and gentle exfoliation. Thick emollients or heel balms can help seal in moisture and protect the skin. Wearing supportive shoes with a closed back reduces pressure and prevents further cracking. If you have severe heel fissures, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who may remove thickened skin or provide specialized treatments before complications develop.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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.