Blog
Paralympic Swimmer Alyssa Gialamas Relies on Ankle-Foot Orthotic
Seventeen year old Alyssa Gialamas competed in the 2012 London Paralympics swimming events. Gialamas was born with arthrogryposis, a congenital condition affecting the joints and muscles. Out of the pool Gialamas relies on her leg-foot-ankle orthotics to stabilize her joints and support her muscles. Gialamas competed with 34 other elite U.S. swimmers at the games.
Gialamas shows that foot and ankle orthotics can allow anyone to regain full mobility. Her condition did not force her to sideline herself for the games, and now she proves that foot conditions and foot injuries are something that can be overcome. If you have a need for orthotics, it is highly recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist, like Dr. Howard Hyman of The Podiatry Center, P.C. Dr. Hyman can work with you on treatment options for your foot conditions that might require the use of ankle-foot orthotics.
Orthoses
Orthoses are devices used to correct physical impairments that are caused by scoliosis, spina bifida, cerebral palsy, or foot deformities..
Orthoses include ankle foot orthosis, thoracolumbosacral orthosis, knee orthosis and wrist hand orthosis. When orthoses were first made, plaster of Paris molds were made of the patient and then materials like plastic, elastic, metal or a combination of those materials.
Different Types of Braces
-The Boston Brace
-Used to assist patients who suffer from scoliosis.
-The Charleston Bending Brace
-This is worn only at night, the design of this brace is built to correct the curve of the
scoliosis.
-The Milwaukee Brace
-Used for mid-back curves. This brace consists of a plastic pelvic girdle and a neck ring. This brace is rarely used but patients with a curve very high in the spine can benefit.
-A knee orthosis is a brace worn to given the knee strength. Ostero arthritiscan cause significant pain, knee braces allow a person to remain active.
Orthoses have changed over the decades as new material and technology have advanced.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Milburn NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot ankle injuries.
Read the Full Article on Orthoses.
Singer Annie Lennox Cancels Performance Due to Foot Pain
Former Eurythmics star Annie Lennox has recently canceled a performance at a United Nations event in Switzerland due to a foot injury. Lennox was scheduled to make an appearance at the Nansen Refugee Award Ceremony in Geneva, but opted not to go because of an issue with her foot that has left her in a great amount of pain.
Lennox said on social media site Facebook.com that “Sometimes I get searing electrical shocks flashing through the nerve endings. It’s the kind of pain that makes you stop in your tracks.” The singer says she is resting up and plans to return to work soon. If you have pain like Lennox and think that it may be due to a nerve disorder, you should seek out the care of a podiatrist such as Dr. Howard Hyman of The Podiatry Center, P.C. Dr. Hyman can diagnose your injury or condition and provide you with appropriate treatment options.
Nerve Disorders of the Foot and Ankle
There are two nerve disorders of the foot and ankle called Interdigital Neuroma and Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome. These conditions affect the hands as well, and are caused by stress and genetics. People who suffer from Interdigital Neuroma and Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome are prone to serious pain and inflammation in the area.
Pain that is associated with Interdigital Neuroma is often from local inflammation in the nerves in the front of the foot. Symptoms include pain, burning, and/or tingling sensations of the toes.
There are several steps a doctor will take to determine if one has Neuroma such as: radiographs, MRIs, and bone scans. Surgery is not required in many instances, and should only be considered when the patient is suffering from persistent pain.
To learn more about Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome and EMG tests on Nerve Disorders of the foot and ankle please follow link below.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Milburn NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot ankle injuries.
Read More About Nerve Disorders of the Foot and Ankle.
Study Identifies Genes Responsible for Rheumatoid Arthritis
DNA samples from over 27,000 patients were used in a recent study at the Arthritis Research UK Epidemiology Unit at the University of Manchester. This study determined 14 more genes that may cause rheumatoid arthritis along with the 32 other genes already identified. The research was published in Nature and Genetics and also brought to light that the genes is linked to the X-chromosome, which could be an explanation for why more women suffer from rheumatoid arthritis.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a painful condition that requires medical attention. If you believe you are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis you should seek the care of a podiatrist such as Dr. Howard Hyman of The Podiatry Center, P.C. Dr. Hyman can diagnose foot conditions you may be suffering from as well as help you determine treatment options that are right for you.
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 occurs, 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.
For more information about rheumatoid arthritis please follow the link below.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Milburn NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot ankle injuries.
New Study on Barefoot Running Released; Barefoot Running May Reduce Injuries
Physical therapist and University of Central Florida instructor Carey Rothschild, recently conducted a study on barefoot running which was published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. Rothschild surveyed 785 runners for her study. She concluded that barefoot running may help some people, but that others could potentially injure themselves if they do not allow their bodies to adjust properly to barefoot running.
Allowing your body time to adjust properly to barefoot running is essential, and part of this preventative care involves talking to a podiatrist like Dr. Howard Hyman of The Podiatry Center, P.C. Dr. Hyman can advise you on a running regimen, as well as provide information on techniques of barefoot running to help avoid foot pain, heel pain, and injury.
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 in Milburn NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot ankle injuries.
Pitcher Francisco Cordero Out with Sesamoiditis in his Big Toe
Houston Astros relief pitcher Francisco Cordero was placed on the disabled list during the last half of the season, after suffering painful inflammation on his big right toe that has been diagnosed as sesamoiditis. Cordero was only recently acquired after a ten man trade with the Blue Jays. Cordero is currently on the 15 day disabled list, but is scheduled to visit a doctor soon, who will determine if surgery is necessary, though Astros manager Brad Mills is hopeful Cordero will recover with conservative treatment.
Foot and ankle injuries like sesamoiditis are painful and may potentially require surgery, as Cordero has learned. If you are experiencing sesamoiditis or any other foot pain, it is important to speak to a podiatrist like Dr. Howard Hyman of The Podiatry Center, P.C. to determine the appropriate treatment options for your condition.
Sesamoiditis
Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.
Causes of Sesamoiditis
- Sudden increase in activity
- Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
- Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible
Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Milburn NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot ankle injuries.
Singer Huh Gak Suffers an Achilles Tendon Injury
Singer Huh Gak is underwent treatment for his right Achilles tendon after falling over and injuring his ankle back in July. According to Cube Entertainment, Gak’s ankle will have to undergo a series of tests and therapy; in the meantime he will be wearing a half cast to speed up recovery.
Because the Achilles tendon is such a vital part of our bodies and our movement, getting the proper treatment for it right away is highly recommended. If you have suffered an Achilles tendon injury, you should seek the care of a podiatrist like Dr. Howard Hyman of The Podiatry Center. Dr. Hyman will examine your ankle pain, determine if it is an Achilles tendon injury, and then provide the appropriate treatment options for you.
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. Often the doctor will order an MRI to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment will involve 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
- Proper fitting shoes
- A healthy diet
If you have any questions, please contact our office in Milburn NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot ankle injuries.
British Women Wear Heels Despite Foot Pain
Jill Foster of the Daily Mail, spoke with three British women regarding their relationship with high heels. Of the three women, two developed bunions on their feet, while the other had an arthritic toe and needed surgery. Two of the women wore heels daily until foot pain prevented them from continuing to wear them, while the other woman plans to continue wearing heels despite the bunions she is developing.
Even though high heels are a popular footwear choice for many women, as the Daily Mail points out, there can be some serious complications that can result from excessive high heel use. If you are experiencing foot pain, ankle pain, or think you are developing a bunion or arthritic feet, it is highly recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist, like Dr. Howard Hyman of The Podiatry Center, immediately. Dr. Hyman will be able to examine your feet, diagnose any foot problems you might be having, and provide treatment options that work for you.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because they are associated with femininity. Despite their appeal, they can 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; you can buy either full inserts or metatarsal pads.
If you have any questions, please contact our office in Milburn NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot ankle injuries.
Study Shows Wine Reduces the Chances of Arthritis by Half
A glass of wine is proven to save you from arthritis, which has shown to be big problem in the role of women’s health. The study shows that women who drink at least three medium size glasses of wine a week are 52 percent less likely to develop arthritis.
This is great news for people who are worried about developing arthritis and dealing with foot pain due to arthritis later in life. However, if you do suffer from arthritis, there is still a good way to get the proper care by seeking the aid of a podiatrist like Dr. Howard Hyman of The Podiatry Center. Dr. Hyman can help you manage your arthritic foot care problems and symptoms and provide treatment options to you.
Arthritic Foot Care
In an average lifetime, we walk approximately 75,000 miles. This can put a great deal of stress on the 26 bones and 30 joints that we have in our feet. As we get older, our feet lose flexibility and elasticity. Our shock absorbers weaken, and if arthritis comes into play, the joints become inflamed and distorted. Arthritic foot care and treatment would become imperative at this point.
It is best to take care of your feet by wearing well-fitted shoes. Certain conditions may develop when you wear shoes that don’t fit properly, for example hammertoes, neuroma, and bunions. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room in the shoe can help your feet be comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with arch support will help; it is also a good idea to buy shoes that contour to your foot.
Alleviating Arthritic Pain
- Specific exercises may help; stretching the Achilles tendon can prevent further pain and injury. Stretching can also increase your mobility.
- Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, as well as topical medications with Capsaicin.
- Massages can also help to alleviate pain temporarily.
It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions may vary, and a foot specialist can help you determine the right health care for your feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Milburn NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot ankle injuries.
Russell Brand Shops Barefoot
While vintage car shopping in West Hollywood, Russell Brand was spotted walking barefoot. His feet appeared unclean and it is surmised that he was not allowed to test drive the cars because of his dirty feet. It is not known why Brand is currently not wearing shoes.
Because Brand has not been protecting his feet regularly by wearing shoes, he is putting himself at serious risk of getting infections or injuries. On top of this, his unclean feet are also causing him overall health problems and walking around barefoot everywhere is not making them any better. Instead of doing this, Brand should be practicing better everyday foot care techniques and seeking the care of a podiatrist, like Dr. Howard Hyman from The Podiatry Center. Dr. Hyman can assist you with any foot care issues you might be having as well as provide treatment for any injuries you might experience in your daily routine.
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. Also make sure that the socks fit properly and are not uncomfortably tight.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Milburn NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot ankle injuries.
Steroids Aid in Reduction of Heel Pain
According to a study performed conducted by Elizabeth Ball in the United Kingdom, unguided steroid injections were effective in treating heel pain associated with plantar fasciitis over a twelve week period. The ultrasound guided method of steroid injection showed comparable levels of decreased pain.
As the study shows, heel pain is a very treatable and manageable form of foot pain that you might be experience. If you are suffering from heel pain, it is recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist, like Dr. Howard Hyman of The Podiatry Center. Dr. Hyman will examine the cause of your heel pain and determine the appropriate treatment options for you.
Causes of Heel Pain
• Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
• Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
• Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes
- Wearing non-supportive shoes
- Weight change
- Excessive running
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a thing of the past.
With the advancements in technology and greater knowledge of how muscles and joints work, physical therapists can turn things around dramatically.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Milburn NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot ankle injuries.
More...
Olympic Swimming Champion Missy Franklin Benefits from her Large Feet
Missy Franklin, the seventeen year old swimming phenomenon who won four gold medals at the Olympics, attributes part of her success to her physiology, particularly her large size thirteen feet. Franklin said her feet “are like my built-in flippers… I definitely don’t think I would be where I am in swimming without (them).” Franklin’s large feet and hands and tall frame make her particularly adept at swimming.
However, even if you do not have Franklin’s frame, swimming remains an excellent exercise for the feet and ankles. If you are considering a swimming exercise program to strengthen and stretch your feet and ankles, you should consult a podiatrist like Dr. Howard Hyman of The Podiatry Center. Dr. Hyman can recommend the best swimming programs for your lifestyle and your feet.
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, while helping the afflicted foot. The feet can also benefit from stretching, during a swimming activity.
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. Swimming is an alternative to other vigorous sports. Flowing freely in a pool or at the beach eases the mind, body and spirit. Altogether you are feeding a healthy lifestyle, while having some fun.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Milburn NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot ankle injuries.
Cyclist Van Homan Gets Surgery On Broken Tibia, Fibula
The Fit Bike Co. pro Van Homan broke his left tibia and fibula on Sunday on a film set in Raleigh, North Carolina. While riding his bike, Homan took a misstep and landed awkwardly, resulting in a broken tibia and fibula directly above the ankle.
A steel rod was placed in Homan’s leg to provide stability to his bones. Even though the injury seemed severe, Homan did not panic and remained calm immediately after the incident. Dr. Hyman of The Podiatry Center treats many patients with broken ankles, and with his help, you’ll be back on your feet in no time.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Milburn NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Several Different Species of Fungi in the Feet Are Revealed in New Study
Researchers at the National Institutes of Health found an average of 50 species of fungi living on the feet of 10 healthy adults. These results were published in a May issue of Nature.
The scientists also swabbed the study participants in other parts of the body including the ear, back, and scalp. However, fungal communities were more diverse in the foot, than anywhere else in the body. In addition, the fungal assemblages living on the subjects feet fluctuated wildly, compared to other parts where they were more stable.
If you do catch athlete’s foot, or are experiencing foot pain, burning, or tingling that you think might be caused by athlete’s foot, it is recommended that you should seek the care of a podiatrist like Dr. Howard Hyman of The Podiatry Center, P.C. Dr. Hyman can properly examine your feet and determine if the symptoms you might have are being caused by athlete’s foot.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
If you suffer from itching, burning, dry, and flaking feet, this may be a sign of athlete's foot. Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be extremely contagious, and often infects shower floors, gyms, socks and shoes, and anywhere else feet may come in contact with. It is commonly found in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, locker rooms and public pools.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
- Hydrate feet with lotion
- Exfoliate
- Buff nails
- Use anti-fungal product
What is Tinea?
- Athlete’s foot is often caused by the same fungus that causes ringworm (tinea).
- Tinea can invade other parts of the body as well.
- Tinea thrives in mostly dark, warm and moist environments.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Milburn NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot ankle injuries.
Read the Full Article on Athlete’s Foot.
Get Up on Your Feet!
A recent study performed by Dr. Peter Katzmarzyk who focuses on population science at Pennington Biomedical Research Center in Louisiana, found that by leading a more active life style, people can tack on two years to their lives. Sitting less than 3 hours a day is beneficial, while sitting for 11 or more hours can be a risk factor for many diseases.
Making time for your feet with exercises can be beneficial to your health. With the help of Dr. Hyman of The Podiatry Center, he will be able to treat patients with foot complications.
Exercise for Your Feet
If you spend most of your time on your feet, or even if you don’t, your feet deserve attention. There are many people who exercise regularly and still don’t spend enough time to care for their feet. Your foot does get exposure that requires maintenance since your health has a lot to do with footing.
Exercises
Toe rise – this exercise involves standing on the tip-toes for a count of 15 seconds, then resting your feet on the ground. This exercise should be repeated three times a day to strengthen the feet.
Toe Pick-ups – the toes are exercises that are done by picking up small items using your toes. This helps strengthen the muscles on the upper part of the feet. Three sets along with 15 seconds being held should be completed. Small items like marbles or stationary will work.
Ankle Pump – can be performed upwards or downwards. The workout can be completed both ways at the same time. This involves flexing the foot either towards the shin or to the ground. This makes the foot work very well, working large parts of the muscles.
Stretching – your muscles in the feet need to relax and return to its natural stage. Placing both feet onto the ground and leaning with your back against a wall helps. This way when stretching occurs, both feet are relaxed.
As always, a good work out helps
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Milburn NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
