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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.
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.
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.
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.
How to Prevent Blisters
Blisters are a fairly common foot condition that can be easily prevented with a few simple steps. The first step is to always ensure the feet are kept clean to prevent any germs or bacteria from penetrating the skin. Wearing the right pair of socks can also help support the feet and reduce friction, which can create blisters. Applying bandages or Band-Aids to any already existing blisters can help reduce excess heat or additional friction that can exacerbate the blister.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
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 and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Concern Over Edelman’s Left Foot
Julian Edelman of the New England Patriots recently left practice after suffering an injury in his lower leg. Initial exams indicated that the injury he suffered was not serious. Although his newest injury is believed to be trivial, there is a lot of concern over his left foot which he fractured last season. Fortunately for Edelman, the team decided that he is healthy enough to be taken off the physically unable to perform list.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries need proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. 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.
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 one of our offices located in in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Concern Over Edelman’s Left Foot
Julian Edelman of the New England Patriots recently left practice after suffering an injury in his lower leg. Initial exams indicated that the injury he suffered was not serious. Although his newest injury is believed to be trivial, there is a lot of concern over his left foot which he fractured last season. Fortunately for Edelman, the team decided that he is healthy enough to be taken off the physically unable to perform list.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries need proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. 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.
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 one of our offices located in in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Pregnancy May Have an Impact on Feet
With pregnancy comes the expectation that our bodies will change in different ways, one of them being that our feet swell up. As our feet can grow in size, this means that our shoe sizes may increase as well. Make sure to accommodate your feet during pregnancy, especially since the increase in foot size may become permanent. However, expert Jessica Shepherd, M.D., says that the increase in size “usually goes away within six months to a year postpartum.”
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What foot problems can arise during pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is over-pronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy, but tends to occur in the later stages.
How can I keep my feet healthy during pregnancy?
- Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
- Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
- Wear shoes with good arch support
- Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
- Elevate feet if you experience swelling
- Massage your feet
- Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prep for DIY Pedicures
Pedicures are very important when it comes to maintaining healthy feet. Prior to giving yourself a pedicure, you should soak your feet in hot water with bath salts or oils. Soaking your feet will help soften calluses and remove any unwanted particles from your skin. The next step in your DIY pedicure is to trim your toenails. Trimming your toenails will help prevent dirt from being trapped underneath them. You should be careful to cut straight across when trimming your nails, in order to prevent ingrown toenails. Be sure to file your nails in the same direction in order to avoid damaging them.
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, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your 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.
Read more about Everyday Foot Care
Diabetics Need to Have Feet Screenings
Diabetic foot is one of the top 20 causes of hospitalization in Australia. Studies conducted in the country found that one in every twenty-two patients in Australian hospitals have active diabetic foot disease. The disease is also responsible for over 4,400 amputations and 1,700 deaths each year. Nevertheless, early prevention is the best way to assure that diabetic foot does not progress into something much worse. It is recommended that every diabetic who goes to a hospital asks to have their foot screened for diabetic foot. Many people who have the disease often aren’t aware of it.
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, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your 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.
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Proper Fitting Shoes important for those working on their Feet
Workers who are on their feet for the majority of their shift should make sure they are wearing properly fitted shoes. There are a few ways to tell if the shoes you are wearing are properly fitted. The inner side of your shoe should be completely straight from your heel to your big toe. If this part of the shoe is not straight, then the shoes you’re wearing are not properly fitted. You should also look for shoes that allow freedom of movement along the front, in order to have comfort while walking.
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, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your 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 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 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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Stafford Suffers from Broken Toe
Kenny Stafford of the Montreal Alouettes recently sustained a broken toe in a game against the Ottawa Redblacks. Fortunately for Stafford, the injury will not require him to undergo surgery. However, the team announced that he is expected to be sidelined for at least six games in order to recover from the injury.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. 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 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 one of our offices located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about a broken toe.
What is Hyperhidrosis?
Sweat is created by tiny glands in the skin that are sacs filled with fluid. These glands, called eccrine glands, are activated by signals in the brain. These brain signals release a chemical called acetylcholine, which activates the glands to squeeze the fluid up through pores. Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, is a condition that a lot of people tend to struggle with. People with hyperhidrosis are sensitive to acetylcholine and produce much more sweat as a result. Many people may view hyperhidrosis as a trivial medical condition, but it isn’t. Although it isn’t life-threatening, it can very easily interfere with your social life and work.
If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.
Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.
In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.
A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.
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.
Man Injures His Foot in Central Park
A University of Miami student severely injured himself in Central Park recently on July 3rd. Connor Golden and his two friends jumped off a rock and landed on an explosive device. The device nearly blew off Golden’s leg, while his two friends were not harmed. Unfortunately for Golden, he needed surgery in order to remove his foot and may need to amputate part of his leg as well.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to fix a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to help with the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary are:
- Removing foot deformities like bone spurs and bunions
- Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
- Cosmetic reconstruction
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:
- Bunionectomy for painful bunions
- Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
- Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage
Benefits of Surgery
Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.
Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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