Blog

Monday, 12 October 2015 12:02

Detroit Lions Welcomes Back Alex Carter after Ankle Sprain

Detroit Lions rookie Alex Carter is doing his best to get back into shape after suffering an ankle injury. “I’m still doing as much as I can right now. We’re still working on the progression, getting back. But this week will be a good week for me,” Carter stated during a press conference. Although the Detroit Lions are pleased to potentially have Carter back, Coach Jim Caldwell has stated that they are in no way rushing the healing process.

Getting back into sports after injuring a foot or ankle can be very difficult for both the body and mind. See one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

Getting Back into Sports after Foot and Ankle Injuries

While one of the most common injuries among athletes may be a sprained ankle, there are still many other types of injuries that plague athletes in any sport. But for less severe foot and ankle injuries, it is recommended by physical therapists and sports medicine doctors that athletes use the R.I.C.E. method to help alleviate pain and to speed up the healing process.

The acronym R.I.C.E. stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. These four steps help in the healing process, not only to reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation, but also to improve overall health of the affected area, allowing you to get back on to your feet again. Although resting is usually the key to all healing, it is necessary to see a doctor to ensure treatment for any other problems that may not be obvious to you right away.

It is best for injured athletes to allow themselves time to heal. Some athletes need hours of re-training, exercise, check-ups with their physical therapist, and other remedies.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices in Fairlawn, Englewood, and Riverdale, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Monday, 05 October 2015 14:25

Surgery Not the Only Option for Hammertoes

corns2 Many patients often have the misconception that conditions such as hammertoes can only be treated and cured through surgery. But such minor conditions can effectively be managed with treatments such as ultrasound-guided injections, which send anti-inflammatory medication directly to the source of pain, and shock wave therapy, which promotes soft-tissue healing. Physical therapy and insoles that ease pressure on the foot are other nonsurgical treatments that have proven successful.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. If you are suffering from hammertoes, contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot & Ankle Care, LLC. 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 contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Englewood, and Riverdale, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Study Finds Chemotherapy Induced Neuropathy Causes more Pain in Feet

stretching2 According to a study reported at the American Pain Society Annual Scientific Meeting chemotherapy induced neuropathy has been found to hurt more in the feet than in the hands making every day routine difficult. The study included 184 patients from the San Francisco Bay area completing taxane or platinum based chemotherapy where chemo-induced neuropathy was in their hands and feet. With the help of questionnaires such as the pain interference scale and brief pain inventory, chemotherapy induced neuropathy was found to cause treatment delay, decreased functioning of the feet, and poorer quality of life since the pain reduced everyday activities.

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. For professional help, see one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will ensure that your feet receive the care that they need.

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 feel free to contact our offices located in Fairlawn, Englewood, and Riverdale, NJ. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Monday, 21 September 2015 08:22

Stretching the Feet is Important in Reducing and Identifying Injury

plantar fasciitis6 With marathon training season coming our way, many runners will experience foot injuries and aches along the way. Finding the proper shoe and paying mind to running habits will reduce and identify pain; massaging and stretching the feet can especially eliminate the foot pain problem. Stretching your feet should be done without shoes on to get the best results and relief. Ignoring foot pain will only increase problems later on making it important to take the proper measures in reducing the pain.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Stretching Your Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Good ways to stretch your feet are:

Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Englewood, and Riverdale, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

The Role 3D Printing Has on Feet

toenail fungus7 While wearables in 3D printed technology, such as orthotic insoles or shoes, have made great advances present day, some question the effectiveness of 3D printing in fitness gear. Major brands such as Nike and New Balance are already selling 3D printed athletic shoes while newer companies such as SOLs and EXO-L are using 3D printing to sell orthotics and ankle braces to keep the feet safe. The process has been proven to provide comfort, affordability, less production time, but 3D printing is still new and complex. Pieter Strikwerda, co-CEO and founder of 3Dprinting.com states, “It’s not a plug and play machine yet,” meaning 3D printing still has a long way to go, but it is still providing better options out there for our feet.

While 3D technology and shoes may become the future, it is important that you provide yourself with everyday foot care to keep any eye on any potential problems. For more information about everyday foot care, consult with one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will provide you with the foot- and ankle information you seek.

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 offices located in Fair Lawn, Englewood, and Riverdale, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

Shoe Shopping Later During the Day Ensures the Best Fit

fungal toenail2 Lifehacker reports that shoe shopping should be done in the evening to ensure the best fitting shoes for the feet. As the day passes, the feet swell in size. Shoe shopping later in the day or in the evening ensures that the feet are at their largest when trying on shoes. While this slight increase in size would normally not make a significant difference, those looking for something supportive such as running shoes or shoes that will be worn all day should consider these slight changes important.

Finding a proper fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. 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 come factors to consider when it comes to investing in properly 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, improperly 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, keeping properly fit 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 offices located in Fair Lawn, Englewood, and Riverdale, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies for your foot and ankle needs.

Blisters are More Common During the Summer Months

fungal toenail2 While a blister is one of the most common foot conditions a person can develop, they are especially common during the summer because of the excessive heat. While most blisters will go away within a few days, those who are looking to treat their condition should avoid popping blisters and instead soak the feet. Popping should only be done if the blister is located in a weight-bearing area and the pain is too much. If a blister manages to pop on its own, clean the area with mild soap and water and dry it gently before applying a topical antibiotic.

Blisters on the feet are very painful and can become problematic if not treated properly. If you have any concerns about your foot and ankle needs contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

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 attention from a doctor.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Englewood, and Riverdale, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Olympic Medalist Lindsey Vonn Breaks Ankle Training in New Zealand

fungal toenail2 Olympic Skier Lindsey Vonn broke her ankle while training in New Zealand. Since then, Vonn has since traveled back to the United States to further evaluate the injury. The gold medalist was quick to turn to social media to display her injury, “Unfortunately I crashed today and have a small fracture in my ankle,. Headed home now but will keep u posted,” she stated adding, “See ya later New Zealand!” Last season Vonn suffered an injury that forced her to miss the 2014 Olympics in Sochi. So far it is still early enough that she can recover by the 2018 Olympics in South Korea.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Dr. Richard T. Braver DPM, FACASand Dr. Phillip S. Messenger, DPM of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. 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.

Seniors Around the Country Gather for the National Senior Games Despite Past Injuries

swimming3 This past July the Minneapolis metro area hosted the 2015 National Senior Games where nearly 12,000 seniors ages 50 and older completed in high activity events such as basketball, swimming, and volleyball. Despite many of these participants having previously suffered from foot and ankle injuries, making them even more susceptible to injury at this stage, the event was still a success. Health professionals do recommend, however, that seniors take extra precautions when participating in high impact activities such as tennis, golf, or running since these activities can have negative influences on the lower extremities.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. For more information, consult with one of our podiatrists from Active Foot & Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

The Elderly and their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions

Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet, and can hide many life threating medical conditions.

Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.

Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:

Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe

Shoes that don’t fit properly

Pressure sores

Loss of circulation in legs & feet

Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Englewood, and Riverdale, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Children’s Foot Ailments Are Often Treatable While They are Still Young

childrens feet14 Nearly 15% of children appear to have flat feet, but as most of these children grow older arches will develop. Unless children are complaining of pain there is no need to interfere with the growing process; however, seeing a podiatrist concerning the arches will not cause any harm and may put a parent’s mind at ease. Additionally, parents can easily tell if their children do have foot problems by looking at the wear and tear patterns on their shoes. Bringing in old shoes to a doctor’s visit can help determine if your child has any potential foot issues. In most cases foot problems can be treated while a child is still young since the bones are still soft.

Keeping an eye on your child’s foot growth is one of the best ways to help keep their feet healthy. If you have any concerns contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet in childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care from birth to school-age.

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. Be sure the child wears comfortable and protective shoes so that they can grow into their feet properly.

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus
Be watchful of any pain or injury
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play

Children of all ages are constantly developing and growing, and as a parent you want to make sure that nothing is hindering their maturation.

If you have any concerns feel free contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Englewood, and Riverdale, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

More...

Monday, 03 August 2015 01:19

Southpaw Actor Jake Gyllenhaal Regularly Participates in Barefoot Running

fungal toenail2 Academy award nominated Hollywood Actor, Jake Gyllenhaal, is known for taking on intense roles where he needs to be extremely fit. Recently Gyllenhaal, the self-proclaimed exercise addict has taken up barefoot running and states that activity has done wonders to reduce the usual muscles soreness he feels after runs with shoes. Although the Southpaw actor particularly enjoys barefoot running, he states, “I’ve had to teach myself how to slow down a bit, because I get so into it, it becomes a real addiction.”

Barefoot running has its own share of benefits and disadvantages. To learn more about this trend, consider speaking to one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will explain the facts of barefoot running and help you decide if it’s a practice you’d like to take up.

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 contact our offices located in Fairlawn, Riverdale, and Englewood, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Philadelphia 76ers Lose Joel Emiid for Second Break in Foot

foot care6 Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers has broken the bone in his right foot and will have surgery to repair the break making this the second foot injury in less than a year for the 21-year old. Embiid originally broke his foot in June of last year, two months before he signed his rookie contract. Although he was the number three pick during the 2014 NBA draft, the center has missed most of his rookie season and will now most likely miss this upcoming season due to the surgery.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to fix a foot ailment. If you have any concerns about your foot and ankle needs contact Dr. Richard T. Braver DPM, FACAS and Dr. Philip S. Messenger, DPM of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

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 our offices located in Englewood, Fair Lawn, and Riverdale, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

University of Colorado Point Guard Has Surgery on Achilles Tendon

sprained ankle2 Xavier Johnson, senior point guard at University of Colorado recently had surgery to repair a tear in his Achilles tendon. There is no telling if the injury will heal in time for the start of the season on November 13, but the team is still supporting him. Coach Tad Boyle stated, “[We are] looking forward to helping Xavier through this process and getting him back healthy, and help this program win more games.”

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. 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 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

Monday, 13 July 2015 15:29

Diabetics Should Pay Attention to Hydration and Foot Health during Warmer Months

foot care6 During the summer months, when the weather is warmer, diabetics face the issues of staying hydrated, maintaining blood sugar levels, and keeping feet healthy with proper foot care. Kidneys absorb less sugar when blood sugar levels rise, causing a faster loss in fluid. Diabetics need to maintain hydration since it dehydration can lead to a build-up of acid in the blood, a life-threatening condition. Additionally, feet need to be kept clean and dry no matter what shoe is worn. Socks need to be kept dry since sweaty socks can lead to ulcers and in some cases, severe infections.

Neuropathy is a common and pain condition for diabetic patients. If you have any concerns about your diabetic feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

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 our offices located in Fair Lawn, Englewood, and North Riverdale, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.