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Podiatrists Treat Conditions of the Feet and More
Seeing your podiatrist should become a routine, as your podiatrist ensures that your feet are properly taken care of. Podiatrists treat foot and ankle ailments such as corns, calluses, heel pain, physical injuries, diabetic feet, arthritis, and more. Podiatrists also assist with evaluating your feet and can provide guidance on choosing the proper footwear. See your podiatrist especially if you’re having concerns about your feet or need early detection, diagnosis, and treatment.
If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to visit one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C.. Our doctors will assess your injury and provide you with quality treatment.
What is a Podiatrist?
Someone would seek care of a podiatrist when they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as: heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems etc.
Podiatric Treatment
A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:
- physical therapy
- drugs
- perform surgery on lower extremity fractures
- orthotic inserts or soles
A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Blisters Form to Protect our Damaged Skin
Also known as vesicles, blisters form when “the top layer of skin pulls away from lower layers and then fills with fluid.” Constant pressure and friction can lead to your skin breaking and blisters forming. Blisters are your body’s response to protecting and healing your skin, so avoid draining a blister if it is recently formed, as this can lead to infection. Different factors can affect why blisters form, including ill-fitting shoes that rub on your feet, or socks that retain sweat and moisture.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, visit one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C.. Our doctors will assess your injury and provide you with quality treatment.
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 our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
What to Look for in the Right Footwear
Investing in a quality pair of shoes that are comfortable is essential in ensuring that your feet are happy. Opt for shoes that have breathable, lightweight fabrics and that have proper arch and heel support. Wear the respective shoes for the physical activity or sport you will be doing. Avoid shoes that are too tight and avoid heels or elevation in the soles of the shoes. Look for footwear that gives your toes enough room to wiggle and change your shoes if they begin showing wear and tear marks.
Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, visit one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C.. Our doctors will assess your injury and provide you with quality treatment.
Proper Shoe Fitting
A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:
- Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
- Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
- Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
- Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity
Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Take Proper Preventative Care to Reduce Risk of Running Injuries
As running and jogging are becoming more common activities as the weather is getting warmer, it’s important to know how to reduce the risk of injury as we exercise. “It’s estimated that at least 40-50 percent of runners will experience some type of injury in a given year.” As running is a repetitive motion, this can lead to constant pressure on our legs and feet and eventually overuse injuries. To avoid the risk of running injuries, stretching, training, having the proper footwear, and keeping in mind your own personal biomechanics are all important aspects to consider.
Runners can still be prone to running injuries even with proper precautions. If you are suffering from a running injury, visit one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C.. Our doctors will assess your injury and provide you with quality treatment.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.
What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.
Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber, this will help you gain better flexibility.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Various Complications Arise from Habitual High Heel Wear
High heels are extremely damaging as they alter your body’s posture, lead to back pain, change your natural gait, and can cause several other complications if worn for long periods of time. Other consequences include ankle instability, unstable biomechanics in the feet, and uneven pressure being exerted on the feet and the ball of each foot as we walk or run. The narrowness of high heels can also lead to bunions forming as our toes are pressed together unnaturally. It’s recommended to wear high heels in moderation or to avoid them altogether.
High heels have a history for causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet visit one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C.. Our doctors will assess your injury and provide you with quality treatment.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because their style and societal appeal. Despite this, they can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
What parts 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. Also, 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 Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Axl Rose Fractures Metatarsal in Foot
Axl Rose, frontman for the popular band Guns N’ Roses, performed at Coachella with a broken foot. According to his foot and ankle specialist, Rose had fractured the fifth metatarsal in his foot. He had surgery which involved doctors inserting a plate and screws to hold up his bones, which had been realigned. As Rose is recovering, he had to avoid putting too much weight on his healing foot.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. To learn more, visit one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C.. Our doctors will assess your injury and provide you with quality treatment.
Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.
Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:
- Bruising
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Blue (foot)
- Numbness
- Cold
- Misshapen
- Cuts
- Deformities
Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.
Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Understanding Athlete’s Foot
Keeping your shoes and feet clean are important in protecting against foot infections such as athlete’s foot. Athlete’s foot, caused by fungus, can accumulate and thrive on our skin when we sweat. It’s essential to change your socks often and to invest in antifungal treatments to kill bacteria. Over-the-counter treatment options for athlete’s foot include antifungal ointment or shoe spray.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles visit one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C.. Our doctors will assess your injury and provide you with quality treatment.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
- Hydrate your feet by using lotion
- Exfoliate
- Buff off nails
- Use of anti-fungal products
- Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of athlete’s foot, as well as helping you figure out which treatment options are best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Gordon Hayward out due to Foot Injury
Gordon Hayward of the Utah Jazz did not play against the Cleveland Cavaliers because of plantar fasciitis he was suffering from in his right foot. His status at the time was considered day-to-day. Hayward leads the team with “averages of 20.1 points, 3.7 assists and 36.2 minutes per game. He also averages 4.9 rebounds per game.” The Jazz team also suffered losses with players Rudy Gobert, Derrick Favors, Alec Burks, and Dante Exum out.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries need proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. If you have any concerns, visit one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C.. Our doctors will assess your injury and provide you with quality treatment.
Sport Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Plantar Fasciosis
- Achilles Tendinitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
Sports-related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is characterized as inflammation of the heel, flaring up without warning and developing over time. The condition requires time to heal and can be treated with surgery. Plantar fasciitis can be caused by many different issues, which can range from recent injury, sudden weight gain, too much strenuous exercise, and ill-fitting footwear. Changing up your footwear and opting for solutions such as cortico-steroid injections, night splints, custom orthotics, or physical therapy can help treat plantar fasciitis.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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 Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Affects Women More Commonly than Men
According to belmarrahealth.com, rheumatoid arthritis in women may be more fatal than women who do not have the disease. Rheumatoid arthritis, classified as a chronic condition, displays symptoms of inflammation, pain, stiffness, and disability in the joints. The disease affects women more commonly than men. If you notice any symptoms, such as random fatigue, irritation in the joints, fever, weight loss, eye irritation, foot pain, or sudden growths beneath the skin, contact your doctor immediately. Treating your symptoms when they begin appearing is essential in preventing the progression of the disease.
Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.
Symptoms
- Swelling & pain in the feet
- Stiffness in the feet
- Pain on the ball or sole of feet
- Joint shift and deformation
Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
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When Hammertoes Become Serious
Hammertoes may indicate more than meets the eye, suggests PR Newswire. Although a hammertoe may start off as a physical deformity, they may be part of a larger problem. The condition may be caused by an acute injury to the plantar plate ligament, which can become serious if left undiagnosed and untreated. The recommended option is surgery for correcting the toes and plate. See your podiatrist or a foot and ankle surgeon to pursue the proper course of action when addressing an extreme hammertoe condition.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information,contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Hammertoe
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.
Symptoms
- Pain in the affected toes
- Development of corns or calluses due to friction
- Inflammation
- Redness
- Contracture of the toes
Causes
- Genetics – people who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible
- Arthritis – because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur
- Trauma – direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe
- Ill-fitting shoes – undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe
Treatment
- Orthotics – custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it
- Medications – oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used
- Surgery – in more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Considering Minimalist Shoes for Barefoot Running
Shoes that mimic goingbarefoot, otherwise known as minimalist shoes, are an alternative training option for those who like to run often. Minimalist shoes are lighter, less cushioned, have less height, and offer the simulation of running barefoot while still giving your feet protection. Minimalist shoes, however, may not be for everyone, and differ from person to person. See your doctor or podiatrist first to assess the condition and gait of your feet before deciding if minimalist shoes are for you.
Barefoot running has its own share of benefits and disadvantages. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Barefoot Running
The Impact of Barefoot Running
-Running without shoes changes the motion of your running, as most running is done by landing on the heel of the feet.
-Running barefoot requires a different way of running; the landing is done on the front part of the feet.
The Advantages of Barefoot Running
-When running and landing on the front feet, the impact on the feet and ankle is reduced, this can reduce stress injuries.
-It strengthens muscles in the feet and ankles and the lower legs.
-Balance of the body is improved and there is a greater sensory input from the feet to the rest of the body.
The Drawbacks of Barefoot Running
-No protection while running, makes it likely that runners will land on sharp objects and scrapes, bruises and cuts on the feet will result.
-Blisters may form.
-Possibility of plantar fascia problems.
-Risk of getting Achilles tendonitis.
So what can runners do to make barefoot running safe? It’s best to make a slow transition from running shoes to barefoot running. Once the feet begin to adjust, try walking, then jogging and gradually increasing the distance. Minimalist running shoes may also be an option.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Caris Levert Talks About Progression on Stress Fracture Recovery
University of Michigan guard, Caris Levert, has finally discussed his stress fracture in his lower extremity. The senior co-captain was left unable to play for six weeks due to the injury in his ankle and claims that he did not once wonder if he would ever be able to play for his school again. As he has become well again with the help of rest and rehab, Levert states, “I was thinking positive. That's what I came back in my senior year for, to play in games and things like that. I tried to stay positive throughout the whole process.”
Activities, where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
The Stress Fractures occur on the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use. Then the feet and ankles lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection the bones receive the full impact of each step. The stress on the feet causes cracks to form in the bones, thus called stress fractures.
What are Stress Fractures?
Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:
-runners
-people affected with Osteoporosis
-play tennis or basketball
-gymnastics
-high impact workouts
Symptoms
Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures, and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves in high impact will aggravate pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Keep Your Feet Clean in Swimming Pool Areas
If you do a lot of swimming, make sure you take precautions to ensure that you keep your feet clean, especially in public locker rooms or in swimming pool areas. Areas like swimming pools can be a factor for a number of skin infections, such as athlete’s foot or plantar warts. Bacteria thrives in moist places, and both athlete’s foot and plantar warts are highly contagious. It is recommended not to wear outdoor shoes in wet public places, and to wear clean footwear. Avoid using public gear and bring your own.
Swimming is a great way to exercise the feet. If you have any questions regarding the benefits of swimming on the feet, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Benefits of Swimming and Foot care
Our feet receive the most stress on a daily basis. Walking, running, and long standing contribute to pain and stress on the feet. Swimming helps promote circulation and keep the body feeling great and healthy.
Benefits of swimming:
Improve blood circulation
- Swimming is a good, safe way to get in extra physical activity and improve circulation, without causing further trauma to the feet
Relieve aches or pains
- It takes all the pressure off of them, allowing the feet to relax and recover, and improves blood flow to them.
Circulation overall for diabetics
- Swimming contributes to blood flow, and increase oxygen levels within the body.
Reduce foot inflammation
- Swimming in warm water can increase blood flow and make it easier to move and stretch the afflicted foot. The feet are also exposed in water, giving them much needed air.
Swimming the helpful alternative:
Many people like the elderly and diabetics suffer from weakened muscles and joints. A water sport like swimming will support the body, thus allowing him or her to move freely. Blood flow circulation is a main trigger to tired inflamed feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.