Items filtered by date: January 2016

The Achilles tendon is known as the tendon that runs along the back of your leg. This tendon is important for making it possible for you to push off when running, and was named after the Greek hero, Achilles, of the Trojan War. Achilles tendonitis affects many, especially runners, and usually involves stiffness or soreness near the heels. This occurs because the tendon becomes inflamed, which leads to heel pain. If you think you have Achilles tendonitis, it’s important to immediately stop strenuous physical activity like running. Treating your Achilles tendonitis involves performing stretches to speed up recovery.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns about your feet contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel bone of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can cause severe difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What are the symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

- Inflammation

- Dull to Severe Pain

- Increased blood flow to the tendon

- Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot

- Snapping sensation

- Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

- Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise

- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If unable to immediately see your podiatrist, remember to Rest, Ice, Compress, and Elevate until then.

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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New Balance, a shoemaker based in Boston, is set to develop a 3D printed running shoe. This new shoe is expected to be cost-effective and represent new breakthroughs in the development of running shoes. These shoes will be created with the focus of printing custom scans of patients’ feet, then creating a midsole with the measurements. This new shoe can offer benefits for patients who need inexpensive shoes that are comfortable and durable. The project involved collaborations with running and biomechanics experts in plastics engineering, generative design, and material development.

Finding a proper fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. If you have any concerns about your feet contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

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, proper fitting shoes is 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.

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Algerian striker Baghdad Bounedjah broke his ankle after the first 18 minutes during the game against the Orlando Pirates in the Confederation Cup Final. He was replaced by Brazilian striker Acosta. Bounedjah underwent surgery but will be on leave for up to two months, according to the Tunisian club. Bounedjah was on loan from the Qatari side Al-Sadd for six months until the end of 2015. The club went on to beat the Orlando Pirates in a score of 2-1.  

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

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 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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For people who have diabetes, it’s important to manage it often to prevent further damage. Foot problems can arise as a result of poor management, and this can lead to damage of the nerves and blood vessels, or even neuropathy, the loss of feeling in the feet. Feet must be inspected on a daily basis so that injuries can be prevented. According to Nursing in Practice, “people with diabetes are at an increased risk of amputation compared to the non-diabetic population.” It’s best to see a specialist if you feel that you may have any potential issues with your diabetic feet.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you have any concerns about your feet contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including 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 because 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 Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about diabetic foot care