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When Hammertoes Become Serious
Hammertoes may indicate more than meets the eye, suggests PR Newswire. Although a hammertoe may start off as a physical deformity, they may be part of a larger problem. The condition may be caused by an acute injury to the plantar plate ligament, which can become serious if left undiagnosed and untreated. The recommended option is surgery for correcting the toes and plate. See your podiatrist or a foot and ankle surgeon to pursue the proper course of action when addressing an extreme hammertoe condition.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information,contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Hammertoe
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.
Symptoms
- Pain in the affected toes
- Development of corns or calluses due to friction
- Inflammation
- Redness
- Contracture of the toes
Causes
- Genetics – people who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible
- Arthritis – because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur
- Trauma – direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe
- Ill-fitting shoes – undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe
Treatment
- Orthotics – custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it
- Medications – oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used
- Surgery – in more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Considering Minimalist Shoes for Barefoot Running
Shoes that mimic goingbarefoot, otherwise known as minimalist shoes, are an alternative training option for those who like to run often. Minimalist shoes are lighter, less cushioned, have less height, and offer the simulation of running barefoot while still giving your feet protection. Minimalist shoes, however, may not be for everyone, and differ from person to person. See your doctor or podiatrist first to assess the condition and gait of your feet before deciding if minimalist shoes are for you.
Barefoot running has its own share of benefits and disadvantages. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Barefoot Running
The Impact of Barefoot Running
-Running without shoes changes the motion of your running, as most running is done by landing on the heel of the feet.
-Running barefoot requires a different way of running; the landing is done on the front part of the feet.
The Advantages of Barefoot Running
-When running and landing on the front feet, the impact on the feet and ankle is reduced, this can reduce stress injuries.
-It strengthens muscles in the feet and ankles and the lower legs.
-Balance of the body is improved and there is a greater sensory input from the feet to the rest of the body.
The Drawbacks of Barefoot Running
-No protection while running, makes it likely that runners will land on sharp objects and scrapes, bruises and cuts on the feet will result.
-Blisters may form.
-Possibility of plantar fascia problems.
-Risk of getting Achilles tendonitis.
So what can runners do to make barefoot running safe? It’s best to make a slow transition from running shoes to barefoot running. Once the feet begin to adjust, try walking, then jogging and gradually increasing the distance. Minimalist running shoes may also be an option.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Caris Levert Talks About Progression on Stress Fracture Recovery
University of Michigan guard, Caris Levert, has finally discussed his stress fracture in his lower extremity. The senior co-captain was left unable to play for six weeks due to the injury in his ankle and claims that he did not once wonder if he would ever be able to play for his school again. As he has become well again with the help of rest and rehab, Levert states, “I was thinking positive. That's what I came back in my senior year for, to play in games and things like that. I tried to stay positive throughout the whole process.”
Activities, where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
The Stress Fractures occur on the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use. Then the feet and ankles lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection the bones receive the full impact of each step. The stress on the feet causes cracks to form in the bones, thus called stress fractures.
What are Stress Fractures?
Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:
-runners
-people affected with Osteoporosis
-play tennis or basketball
-gymnastics
-high impact workouts
Symptoms
Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures, and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves in high impact will aggravate pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Keep Your Feet Clean in Swimming Pool Areas
If you do a lot of swimming, make sure you take precautions to ensure that you keep your feet clean, especially in public locker rooms or in swimming pool areas. Areas like swimming pools can be a factor for a number of skin infections, such as athlete’s foot or plantar warts. Bacteria thrives in moist places, and both athlete’s foot and plantar warts are highly contagious. It is recommended not to wear outdoor shoes in wet public places, and to wear clean footwear. Avoid using public gear and bring your own.
Swimming is a great way to exercise the feet. If you have any questions regarding the benefits of swimming on the feet, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Benefits of Swimming and Foot care
Our feet receive the most stress on a daily basis. Walking, running, and long standing contribute to pain and stress on the feet. Swimming helps promote circulation and keep the body feeling great and healthy.
Benefits of swimming:
Improve blood circulation
- Swimming is a good, safe way to get in extra physical activity and improve circulation, without causing further trauma to the feet
Relieve aches or pains
- It takes all the pressure off of them, allowing the feet to relax and recover, and improves blood flow to them.
Circulation overall for diabetics
- Swimming contributes to blood flow, and increase oxygen levels within the body.
Reduce foot inflammation
- Swimming in warm water can increase blood flow and make it easier to move and stretch the afflicted foot. The feet are also exposed in water, giving them much needed air.
Swimming the helpful alternative:
Many people like the elderly and diabetics suffer from weakened muscles and joints. A water sport like swimming will support the body, thus allowing him or her to move freely. Blood flow circulation is a main trigger to tired inflamed feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
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.
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.
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Dermatologists Develop New Treatment to Combat Hyperhidrosis
Two Austin dermatologists have developed a treatment, called miraDry(r), to help combat excessive underarm sweating. This medical condition, in which the body sweats more than usual without any specific trigger, is called hyperhidrosis. Hyperhidrosis can make patients feel uncomfortable in social situations and irritate the skin. Hyperhidrosis can also affect other parts of the body in addition to the underarm areas, such as the palms and feet. The FDA-approved miraDry(r) drug is said to help “eliminate the sweat glands in and around the underarm area that causes excess sweat.” This new drug represents another potential breakthrough in treating medical conditions with few known cures.
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.
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 located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Taking Care of Your Achilles Tendon
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.
Running Shoe Prototype Offer Customized Benefits
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.
Algerian Striker Baghdad Bounedjah Undergoes Surgery for Broken Ankle
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.
