Items filtered by date: September 2025

High heels may look sexy and make the legs look longer, but a lifetime spent wearing high heels can cause a lot of damage to the feet. The angle at which the toes and ball of the foot are jammed into a pointy toe box adds undue pressure on the bottom of the foot. The higher the heel, the more pressure is added. This may result in several painful foot conditions including bunions, hammertoes, corns, calluses, and Achilles tendonitis, to name a few. Other effects in the long-term wearing of high heels is plantar fasciitis, Haglund’s deformity at the back of the heel, which is also called pump bump, knee and back pain caused by the shifting of weight, and Morton’s neuroma, which affects the nerves under the third and fourth toe. If you are experiencing any of these foot conditions and the pain is ongoing or worsening, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and discussion of treatment options. 

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Josef Elouze, DPM from Elite Podiatry. 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 our office located in (Holiday City) Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that often affects the joint at the base of the big toe. It is caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joint, which leads to sudden and intense pain. Symptoms include redness, swelling, warmth, and extreme tenderness in the affected area, sometimes making it difficult to walk or even wear a sock. The pain often starts at night and may feel sharp, throbbing, or burning. Triggers for gout can include a diet high in purines, alcohol consumption, dehydration, certain medications, and underlying health conditions. A podiatrist can help diagnose gout through a physical examination, patient history, and possibly lab tests to measure uric acid levels. Treatment options may involve anti-inflammatory medications, dietary recommendations, lifestyle changes, and long-term management strategies to prevent future flare-ups. If you experience sudden foot pain or suspect gout, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to receive proper care and relief.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Josef Elouze, DPM from Elite Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Chronic plantar fasciitis is often caused by persistent overuse, excess weight, or standing for extended periods of time. It occurs when the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes, becomes inflamed or damaged. Long-term symptoms typically include ongoing heel pain, especially in the morning or after long periods of rest. The pain may feel sharp, burning, or aching, and can worsen throughout the day. Visibly, there may be no swelling, but the discomfort can significantly impact daily life and mobility. A podiatrist can help by performing a thorough examination and diagnostic imaging to monitor the condition. Treatment options may include custom orthotics, stretching exercises, night splints, and, in some cases, corticosteroid injections. Addressing the underlying causes, such as footwear, weight, and activity level, is essential for long-term relief. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to begin your path to recovery.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Josef Elouze, DPM  from Elite Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Caring for diabetic feet is vital to prevent complications and maintain mobility. Pressure redistribution through supportive footwear and custom inserts helps reduce strain on sensitive areas. If a foot ulcer develops, proper cleaning and dressing are important steps, and antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection. Making regular podiatry appointments ensures early detection and treatment of issues before they become severe. A podiatrist can guide you in selecting the right shoes, provide wound care, and monitor circulation and nerve health to protect your feet long-term. If you are living with diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Josef Elouze, DPM from Elite Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, often developing between the toes. It thrives in warm and moist environments, making locker rooms, around pools, and tight footwear common sources of exposure. Symptoms include itching, burning, redness, peeling skin, and sometimes blisters or cracked areas that can become painful. Risk factors include excessive sweating, walking barefoot in public places, or wearing shoes that do not allow the feet to breathe. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, provide effective anti-fungal treatments, and recommend prevention strategies to keep feet healthy. If you are experiencing signs of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Josef Elouze, DPM from Elite Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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