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Monday, 02 January 2017 16:33

Diabetic Foot Care in Patients

With over one million limb amputations happening each year globally, diabetic foot care is essential to one’s health. The importance of checking the feet for cuts and abrasions is paramount, especially in places where amputations are common. In light of World Diabetes Day at the end of November, podiatrists have been advising their diabetic patients to regularly check their feet for cuts, sores, red spots, and infected toenails to ensure that they are healthy. Taking the time to regularly check the feet can prevent the exacerbation of the 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 one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, PC. Our doctors 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. 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 one of our offices located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Rear more about diabetic foot care.

Monday, 26 December 2016 01:12

Vegetables Help With Arthritis Symptoms

Sweet potatoes and broccoli may be considered as potential options for alleviating inflammation in the body, such as arthritis. Vegetables like these are high in alkaline and antioxidants, which help fight against arthritis symptoms. Sweet potatoes are also a good source of beta-carotene and vitamin C. Arthritis is described as a condition in which the body’s joints become inflamed and are prone to symptoms of pain. Inflammation occurs when the nerve endings in the joints react to damaged cells, leading to pain and limited mobility. Other arthritis symptoms include redness, swelling, increased temperature and stiffness.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves inflammation of different joints in your body, such as in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. On top of this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
Massages can help to temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Importance of Walking Correctly

Although walking regularly offers many benefits for our overall health such as managing health conditions such as heart disease, it’s important to take caution as walking is not necessarily injury-proof. As we walk, we put pressure on our legs, ankles and feet. Improper walking motions can impact the amount of pressure exerted. Avoid looking down as you walk, as this can lead to slouching. Keep your back straight and your head upright to avoid any gait problems. Proper shoes are also essential for ensuring that our leg and foot motions are correct, as they play a large role in the biomechanics of our feet. Remember to always change your shoes every 350 to 500 miles.

Every day foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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 one of our offices located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Achilles Tendonitis One of Many Foot and Ankle Injuries

Known as the thick tendon that connects your calf muscles to your heel bone, the Achilles tendon allows you to do everyday activities such as walking and running. Insertional Achilles tendonitis is a condition of the Achilles tendon in which pain is experienced at the heel, and which can become chronic if left untreated. Non-insertional Achilles tendonitis can be described as a microscopic tearing of the fibers in the tendon. If the problem becomes chronic, a bone spur can eventually develop as the tendon thickens. If severe, the condition may require surgery.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel 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

- 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 you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Monday, 05 December 2016 16:51

Burning Sensation in the Feet

If you have symptoms of a burning sensation in your feet, you may have any number of conditions. The sensation of burning in the feet can be either minor or severe, affect people over 50, and occur most frequently during the night. Nerve damage from diabetes, vitamin deficiency or alcoholism, obesity, strain on the feet, overheated feet, eczema or dermatitis, blood disorders, or any other impairment of the feet’s nerves can all lead to the described burning sensation. Seeing your podiatrist is vital to understanding any underlying causes. Make sure that you are wearing properly-fitting shoes as well.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable. Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Monday, 28 November 2016 16:02

How to Shop for Shoes

Sneakers are arguably the most important piece of equipment for an athlete. You should always be sure to get rid of shoes that are “past their prime.” Shoes that need to be thrown out will have a loss of counter support and a worn out midsole. When shopping for new shoes, you should look for ones that fit properly. The rule of thumb for shoe shopping is to allow for at least one finger’s width from the end of the longest toe to the top of the shoe.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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 and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Will Barton Suffers Sprained Ankle

Will Barton of the Nuggets suffered an ankle sprain during the second half of the loss to the Toronto Raptors in late October. “It’s just sore, a bad sprain, a real bad sprain,” Barton described his injury. “My foot stepped on one of the big guys’ feet from Toronto and just turned as soon as I touched it.” There are degrees to describe types of ankle sprains, all of which occur as a result of a tearing of the ligaments. Grade 1 sprains can be described as the minor tearing of the ligament fibers, resulting in mild tenderness and swelling. Grade 2 sprains can be described as moderate, partial tearing of the ligament. Grade 3 sprains are severe and typically require surgery and recovery time in boots, brace, or crutches.

Ankle sprains are common, but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from The Podiatry Center, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What are the Symptoms?

Mild to moderate bruising
Limited mobility
Swelling
Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
Stretching before exercises and sports
Knowing your limits can aid in prevention

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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.

Kevin Johnson sustains Broken Foot

Kevin Johnson of the Houston Texans unfortunately broke his foot in a game against the Indianapolis Colts last month. Many fear this may be a season-ending injury for Johnson. After the game, X-rays confirmed the initial diagnosis. Despite his injury, Johnson continued to play through the game, but was later seen limping badly at NRG stadium. Johnson is a first-round draft pick from Wake Forest last season.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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 and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Mitch Creek Suffers Stress Fracture in Foot

Mitch Creek, 36ers captain, was determined to have suffered a stress fracture in his foot following the loss against Melbourne United in October. Creek is currently in recovery, for up to eight weeks. He was inspected by club doctors, who “advised [that] the fracture will heal without surgery, but the eight weeks needed means he will miss approximately 10 matches.” Creek said he had experienced “incredible” pain for about two minutes until he decided to sub himself out. He was confident that he would be able to return “fitter, bigger, better and stronger.”

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, PC. Our doctors can 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 in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Monday, 31 October 2016 22:35

Treating Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus is difficult to hide and at times, may be difficult to treat. Fortunately, there are ways to get rid of it. Nail fungus starts off as a white or yellow spot underneath your toenail. As the fungal infection progresses, it may cause your nail to change color, thicken, or crumble at the edge. Toenail fungus can usually be treated by medicated nail polish, oral antibiotics, medicated nail cream, or nail removal.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, PC. Our doctors will attend to your foot and ankle needs.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a problem which affects many people and is hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating toenail fungus.

Antibiotics & Treatments

Lamisil – is the most commonly effective treatment for toenail fungus. It is available as an antibiotic Terbinafine tablet and cream. Terbinafine is a chemical component which kills fungal growth on the body. Applying regular doses will gradually kill the fungal growth. It is important to keep the area clean and air free.

Talcum powder – applying powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well

Alternative Treatments

There are always surgical procedures that are available for toenail fungus. Some people would like immediate quick removal of toenail fungus. Surgeons will be able to cut through and remove the growth using laser surgery. It is important not to try and remove it yourself. Once removed, your old shoes will need to be replaced to avoid reinfection.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Monday, 24 October 2016 23:14

30 Percent of Starting Runners Suffer Injury within 3 Months

Running injuries occur when a part of the body is unable to handle the repetitive stress being placed upon it. 30 percent of beginner runners become injured within their first three months of running. This could be due to a variety of reasons such as: poor technique, poor strength, and fluctuations in training volume. It is important for runners to stretch before they exercise in order to improve flexibility and mobility. Another way to reduce injury risk for runners is to wear proper footwear. Choosing to wear shoes that are comfortable and allow for the athlete to have good movement can greatly reduce the risk of injury.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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.

Monday, 17 October 2016 22:18

Ben Simmons Breaks Ankle

Ben Simmons of the Philadelphia 76ers “rolled” his right ankle while playing during the last scrimmage of the 2016 Training Camp at Stockton University in late September. Simmons had an X-ray and MRI done to review his foot condition, and it was later determined that he sustained “a fracture of the fifth metatarsal bone of his right foot.” His playing status for the team was unknown at the time and his foot required further examination to consider his long-term status.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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 and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Diet May Affect Arthritic Symptoms

There are several different types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Both diseases involve the progressive wear and tear of the body’s joints, leading to symptoms such as restriction of movement, stiffness, pain, and inflammation. Daily habits and diet have been found to profoundly affect arthritic symptoms, so it is vital that arthritic patients avoid foods high in capsicum, alcohol, caffeine, and smoking. Weight management is also important in preventing the progression of arthritic symptoms.

Arthritic Foot Care

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
Massages can help to temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

New Drug May Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a new biological drug designed to treat inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. The new drug, called Erelzi, is classified as a biosimilar, “a biological product approved on findings that it is highly similar to an already-approved biological product and has no clinically meaningful differences in terms of safety and effectiveness, according to the FDA.” The drug is given by injection and can also assist in the alleviation of symptoms with psoriatic arthritis or other conditions such as juvenile arthritis.

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 can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

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 offices located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Blog

Diabetic Foot Care in Patients

Vegetables Help With Arthritis Symptoms

Importance of Walking Correctly

Achilles Tendonitis One of Many Foot and Ankle Injuries

Burning Sensation in the Feet

How to Shop for Shoes

Will Barton Suffers Sprained Ankle

Kevin Johnson sustains Broken Foot

Mitch Creek Suffers Stress Fracture in Foot

Treating Toenail Fungus

More...

30 Percent of Starting Runners Suffer Injury within 3 Months

Ben Simmons Breaks Ankle

Diet May Affect Arthritic Symptoms

New Drug May Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis

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