Haro Podiatry Center has been able to provide effective treatment for numerous patients over many years. During this time, we have been able to compile a list of questions that are often asked. You are certainly always welcome to give us a call if you have a question not featured in the section. While you’re on the line, be sure to request your appointment with Dr. Haro so he can create a treatment plan to resolve your foot or ankle problem. We add to this section, so be sure to check back periodically!

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  • What causes a bunion?

    A bunion is a term for the bone enlargement that protrudes out where your big toe and foot meet.

    A bunion can also form on the outside of the foot where the little toe and foot meet.

     

    1. Does wearing the wrong shoes cause a bunion?

    Bunions are almost always hereditary. Narrower shoes worn consistently can make the bunion hurt more, but do not cause it. If shoes were the cause, men and children would never get bunions… and they do. Unfortunately, some people are just genetically predisposed to this condition.

    2. Is there a splint that can correct a bunion?

    There are many splints on the market, but none of them correct a bunion. Nothing will take away the enlarged bone and make the big toe straight again other than surgery. Wearing a splint may slow down how fast a bunion grows.

    3. I heard a bunion always comes back after being removed – is that true?

    Although it’s possible for a bunion to recur, when the right procedure is done it’s rare the bunion will return. The techniques for bunion correction keep getting better. Also, we recommend shoes with good support and custom orthotics to decrease the chance of a recurrence.

    4. When is the best time to have the bunion removed?

    There are a couple of reasons to consider having surgery. The first is when there is pain on a daily basis. The second is if the big toe starts overlapping the second toe. The size of the bunion doesn’t always correlate with the pain. Some large bunions rarely hurt. Some small bunions hurt a ton. We can advise you as to if or when surgery is indicated.

    5. What can be done about the pain besides surgery?

    Sometimes we’ll use cortisone to relieve the pain. Custom orthotics are helpful to align the foot better. Of course, wider shoes can be helpful. Ice and Ibuprofen have also helped some people.

     

    There isn’t a one-size-fits-all for bunions.

    We recommend a non-surgical approach to bunions, as we do for all foot conditions, for as long as possible.

    Some bunions can get bigger and more painful quickly. An x-ray will guide us to the best option if this occurs.

     

    If you have had a bunion that hurts fairly often, we can advise you on the best course of action. Our staff members are ready to make your appointment. Call our Clifton, NJ office at (973) 777-5771 for same-day appointments. 

     

  • What shoes should I wear when I am going to the pool or beach?

    The moist ground around the pool is a breeding place for viruses and fungus. Walking barefoot on the beach, rivers, and lakes can always trigger puncture wounds from stones, shells and splinters.  Wearing water shoes can help you avoid these issues and enjoy the rest of your summer.

    Are You Suffering From A Painful Foot Condition?

    If you are suffering from a painful foot condition you're not alone. Help is available. Contact our experienced podiatrist for help today. We are conveniently located in Clifton, New Jersey and look forward to helping you alleviate your foot pain. Contact us online or call our office directly at 973.777.5771 to schedule your appointment.

  • Is laser therapy covered by my insurance?

    Each insurance company is different and the best way to find out if laser therapy is covered is to contact your specific carrier to find out. Please also realize that coverage may differ depending on the condition for which you are being treated. For example, deformed and discolored toenail treatment is not covered by any insurance carrier.

    Are You Suffering From A Painful Foot Condition?

    If you are suffering from a painful foot condition you're not alone. Help is available. Contact our experienced podiatrist for help today. We are conveniently located in Clifton, New Jersey and look forward to helping you alleviate your foot pain. Contact us online or call our office directly at 973.777.5771 to schedule your appointment.

  • Am I going to feel any pain with laser therapy?

    One of the great benefits of laser therapy is that it is painless. You will usually go through the whole treatment without feeling any discomfort. You may feel some warmth, which tells us that the laser light is being transmitted, but there is no pain involved.

    Are You Suffering From A Painful Foot Condition?

    If you are suffering from a painful foot condition you're not alone. Help is available. Contact our experienced podiatrist for help today. We are conveniently located in Clifton, New Jersey and look forward to helping you alleviate your foot pain. Contact us online or call our office directly at 973.777.5771 to schedule your appointment.

  • Can custom orthotics improve my endurance?

    Yes. When your feet are out of alignment, your muscles have to work harder to make up for your foot deficiency. Custom orthotics will re align your feet and help reduce the extra work that your muscle have to do. For a full discussion feel free to go to our custom orthotic page.

    Are You Suffering From A Painful Foot Condition?

    If you are suffering from a painful foot condition you're not alone. Help is available. Contact our experienced podiatrist for help today. We are conveniently located in Clifton, New Jersey and look forward to helping you alleviate your foot pain. Contact us online or call our office directly at 973.777.5771 to schedule your appointment.

  • Why should I choose laser therapy over other treatments?

    Generally, safety and time are the main advantages of laser over traditional therapies for fungal toenails. Laser is very safe with no record of any adverse side effects. Oral medications on the other hand always carry a risk of gastric, liver, and kidney side effects. Laser also works in conjunction with other treatments to speed up your bodies healing process. Please refer back to our laser therapy page for a more in-depth discussion.

    Are You Suffering From A Painful Foot Condition?

    If you are suffering from a painful foot condition you're not alone. Help is available. Contact our experienced podiatrist for help today. We are conveniently located in Clifton, New Jersey and look forward to helping you alleviate your foot pain. Contact us online or call our office directly at 973.777.5771 to schedule your appointment.

  • I have high-arched feet. Would orthotics help me?

    Yes. Custom foot orthotics can definitely help with your high arches. We recommended a biomechanical evaluation by a podiatrist to determine the exact condition you suffer from. Then, if needed, a pair of custom orthotics would help balance your feet and alleviate the symptoms of your high arches.

    Are You Suffering From A Painful Foot Condition?

    If you are suffering from a painful foot condition you're not alone. Help is available. Contact our experienced podiatrist for help today. We are conveniently located in Clifton, New Jersey and look forward to helping you alleviate your foot pain. Contact us online or call our office directly at 973.777.5771 to schedule your appointment.

  • How can I prepare for my first consultation with Dr. Haro?

    Is this the first time you have visited a podiatrist? Well, don't worry. This handy guide will prepare you for your appointment and help make the most of your time with the foot and ankle expert. Please be sure to bring the following with you when you arrive for your appointment:

    1. All insurance cards
    2. Your referral from your primary physician (if your insurance requires one)
    3. A list of all your medications you are currently taking including any vitamins or supplements
    4. Any X-rays or medical tests you may have done regarding your foot condition
    5. Please do not apply any lotions or nail polish prior to your visit with us as Dr. Haro would like to see your feet in their natural state.
    6. Please come in with sock and closed shoes and bring a sample of your most worn shoes outside and inside the house.

    Are You Suffering From A Painful Foot Condition?

    If you are suffering from a painful foot condition you're not alone. Help is available. Contact our experienced podiatrist for help today. We are conveniently located in Clifton, New Jersey and look forward to helping you alleviate your foot pain. Contact us online or call our office directly at 973.777.5771 to schedule your appointment.