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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.
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.
Taking Proper Care of Your Feet After Wearing High Heels
High heels can do noticeable damage to your feet if you wear them for long periods of time, so make sure to care for your tender feet the proper way following your ordeal. Look for high heels that are comfortable and that fit your feet, but also allow for some space for your toes. After wearing high heels, “soak your feet in hot water with epsom salt for at least 15 minutes,” and opt for doing yoga exercises to stretch your sore muscles. Make sure that your toenails are trimmed so that they don’t cause discomfort when wearing heels. Give your feet proper rest following wearing high heels.
High heels have a history for causing foot and ankle 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.
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.
Jared Allen Suffers Broken Toe Against Seattle Seahawks
Jared Allen of the Carolina Panthers suffered a foot injury during a game against the Seattle Seahawks. While the broken bone is near his pinky toe, the defensive end still intended on playing through it. Allen was initially able to play through it and even though surgery was almost guaranteed, it appeared as though the 33 year old was going to continue to play through the pain for as long as possible.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, see one of our podiatrists from The Podiatry Center, PC. Our doctors will treat your heel pain symptoms in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
What to Know About a Broken Toe
Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- throbbing pain
- swelling
- bruising on the skin and toenail
- the inability to move the toe
- toe appears crooked or disfigured
- tingling or numbness in the toe
Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.
Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Simple Steps to Protect the Feet
Our feet are no doubt one of the most important and most used parts of our body. Feet should be taken care of daily to prevent the onset of diseases like bunions and arthritis as we age. Simple steps like exercising often and wearing comfortable shoes can help protect our feet. Wash your feet regularly and moisturize, but avoid the areas in between your toes. Inspect your feet daily to make sure that they are good condition. See your podiatrist at least once a year to ensure that your feet are in proper health.
Every day foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If your feet are hurting, see one of our podiatrists from The Podiatry Center, PC. Our doctors will treat your heel pain symptoms in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
Every Day Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. After all, without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks. It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before, for example.
For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops.
Also, wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Evidence Suggests Gout Has Link to Arrhythmia
Information pulled from the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink suggests that gout “is significantly associated with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF).” AF, a type of heart arrhythmia, seems to be directly correlated with gout. The findings indicate that gout may be one potential cause of AF. It was also found that gout patients had more health problems, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and a higher body mass index (BMI). These health problems can contribute to both higher risks of gout and AF.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you have any concerns about your feet see one of our podiatrists from The Podiatry Center, PC. Our doctors will provide you with quality treatment and assist you with all of your foot and ankle concerns.
What is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Tips to Prevent Running Injuries in 2016
A new year is often accompanied by resolutions for a healthier lifestyle full of exercise. Many beginners, however, are immediately put off by tough and unfamiliar workouts. Those intending to incorporate exercise into their routine must gradually build up the difficulty to allow the body to become accustomed to the exercise. Gradually adding is also key to avoiding injuries; quickly jumping into tough exercises may be harmful than good.
Runners can still be prone to running injuries even with proper precautions. If you are suffering from a running injury see one of our podiatrists from The Podiatry Center, PC. Our doctors will provide you with quality treatment and assist you with all of your foot and ankle concerns.
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 and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Drew Bees of New Orleans Saints Keeps Playing Despite Foot Injury
Drew Brees of the New Orleans Saints led his team to victory with a score of 38-27 against the Jacksonville Jaguars, despite a right foot injury. Brees had injured his plantar fascia in the game against Detroit but was able to continue playing because of a lack of symptoms. Brees did miss one practice in between the games, allowing himself three days of treatment and recovery. He felt “he was confident he could be effective,” and he wanted “ ‘to play for my guys - bottom line.’ ”
Sports related foot and ankle injuries need proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. If you have any concerns, consult with one of our podiatrists from The Podiatry Center, P.C. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
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.
