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Tuesday, 12 July 2016 14:54

Hammertoe can form from wearing High Heels

black feet4 Hammertoe is a deformity which results in the toe bending unnaturally. This condition usually affects the second toe, although it can happen to any of the toes. Hammertoe affects women more often than men because women tend to wear shoes that are too narrow for their feet. Hammertoe only requires treatment if it becomes painful. In order to prevent the condition from happening to you, it is important to make sure you are wearing appropriate footwear for your feet.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

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 New Jersey. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Choosing Walking as an Exercise Routine

foot exercise4 Walking is one of the most popular ways to stay in shape because it does not require any equipment and can be done anywhere. Although keeping up with a walking regimen can be difficult at times, there are a few ways to make it easier. It is important to have a backup plan in case you oversleep or if the weather isn’t safe enough to walk in. This plan may include walking indoors on a treadmill. Another way to keep up with your regimen is to walk at the same time every day. This will help remind you to complete your daily walk. Taking a new route during your walk can make walking exciting. Changing your routine will help motivate you to go outside and exercise more.

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 Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you to gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important and often we forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate not to have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure its good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rise, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, also flexing the toes and involving the shins may help too. It is best to speak with your doctor regarding how to do these fitness steps and how often is right for you. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different and it varies from individual to individual to determine what should be done for you to maintain strength in your feet.

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in New Jersey. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Blisters Develop after Repeated Friction

blister6 Both blisters and calluses develop in response to repeated friction on the skin, however, blisters can be described as a fluid-filled bubble. As the outermost layer of skin, or the epidermis, is damaged, fluid helps to protect the bottom layers of skin from further infection. Blisters can also be caused by burns or sunburns as well as frostbite and can take up to a week to heal. Avoid popping the blister unless it has not healed on its own.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, consult with one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. 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 offices located in New Jersey. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Holger Badstuber Playing Again After Broken Ankle Injury in February

broken ankle4 Holger Badstuber, Bayern Munich defender, was spotted having resumed training three months after his broken ankle incident. Badstuber had fractured his ankle while training in February. Badstuber came back in early May to run laps around the training pitches, preparing to play again for Bayern’s starting XI. Badstuber had previously torn his anterior cruciate ligaments in 2012 and had to miss the rest of the 2012-2013 season in rehab.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your 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 offices located in New Jersey. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Osteoarthritis Affects 80% of North Americans by the Age of 65

Arthritis5 Osteoarthritis, a form of arthritis, occurs when the body’s immune system begins attacking healthy cartilage and tissue. “Eighty percent of North Americans have X-ray evidence of osteoarthritis by age 65, and sixty percent have significant pain.” As osteoarthritis is a progressive chronic disease, the cartilage of the joints wears down over time and there is no known cure. Symptoms of the disease include gradually increasing pain throughout the body, which are usually treated with NSAIDs, or non-steroidal pills.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment,contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your 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 our offices located in New Jersey. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Devin Robinson Needed Surgery for Broken Foot

ankle surgery Devin Robinson, forward for the Florida Gators, had to have foot surgery and was sidelined for up to four months in late April. Robinson had surgery for a stress fracture in his left foot. He had originally entered the NBA draft on April 4, meaning he can return to the Gators for his junior season. There is hope that he will be ready to play for the start of the next season if he chooses to return.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to fix a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your 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 our offices located in New Jersey. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar Fasciitis is Caused by the Inflammation of the Plantar Fasciia

plantar fasciitis6 If you’re waking in the mornings with pain in your feet, it may be because you have plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is described as heel pain that occurs as a result of inflammation and injury of the plantar fascia, which stretches along the bottom of our feet’s soles. Our plantar fascias are “prone to overuse injuries,” and symptoms of the condition include “morning stiffness, stiffness after working out, and pain while walking barefoot.” Treating your plantar fasciitis involves investing in custom orthotics, changing your footwear, anti-inflammatory medication, splints and physical therapy.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

· Excessive running

· Non-supportive shoes

· Overpronation

· Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

· Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices

· Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis

· Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in New Jersey. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Heel and Foot Ailments Become More Common As We Age

slower walking As we age, our feet wear down over time, as “our body absorbs two to three times their weight due to gravity.” According to podiatrist Dr. Joy Rowland, our feet gradually become longer and wider, our ligaments and tendons become “a little bit more lax over time,” and our feet can develop foot deformities such as hammertoe. We also begin losing the fat pad that supports our feet as we age, so it’s important to change your shoes often as your feet change too.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contactone of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

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 feel free to contact our offices located in New Jersey. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Managing Your Bunion Condition

bunions7 Bunions are characterized as unsightly bumps that run along the side of your big toe, potentially leading to irritation and pain as we walk or run. Preventing bunions is as simple as finding footwear that gives your feet enough room to move and doesn’t push your toes together. Conditions such as “low arches, flat feet, and loose joints and tendons” make your feet more prone to bunions. Treating your bunions involves accommodating your feet by wearing comfortable shoes that are wide as well as seeing your podiatrist to find proper treatment.

Bunion surgery usually occurs after non-surgical methods have proved to be ineffective. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

What is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs by the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why do Bunions Form?

Genetics – susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
Stress on the feet – poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can cause bunions to form

How are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How are Bunions Treated?

Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
Orthotics or foot inserts
Surgery

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in New Jersey. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Avoid contracting Plantar Warts at the Gym

childrens feet15 Bacteria thrives in moist, public places such as gyms, and can lead to infections such as plantar warts. To avoid contracting contagious infections like plantar warts, take precautions when using public gym equipment. Clean any gym equipment you plan on using, and cover up any open wounds. Wear flip flops in the locker rooms and public shower areas. Also bring your own gym equipment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

Legions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
Hard or thick callused spots
Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

Freezing
Electric tool removal
Laser Treatment
Topical Creams (prescription only)
Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, will help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in New Jersey. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 26 April 2016 15:22

Choosing the Right Footwear for Your Baby

childrens feet11 When the time comes and your child starts walking on his or her own, it’s important to choose the right type of footwear for them. Footwear at a young age can impact how children’s feet develop as they grow older. Remember to look for shoes that are comfortable, breathable, soft, and lightweight. Avoid stiff leather and check that the sole is made of flexible and padded material. Shoes should have enough room for the toes to wiggle. Change them every few months as necessary.

Looking out for potential foot and ankle injuries as well as general health is vital in maintaining proper development in children’s feet.If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, 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 questions please feel free to contact our offices located in New Jersey. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Monday, 18 April 2016 22:42

Joey King Out with Broken Foot

broken foot6 Minnesota’s Joey King, the only senior on the team, is out with a broken foot injury, at the time undetermined for how long. He is expected to miss the last two games of his school career. “It’s a crushing blow,” said Minnesota coach Richard Pitino, going on to say that “it makes a difficult situation much more difficult. But we just have to move on and do the best we can.”

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

Bruising
Pain
Redness
Swelling
Blue (foot)
Numbness
Cold
Misshapen
Cuts
Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in New Jersey. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Eating Your Way through Stress Fracture Recovery

broken foot4 According to triathlete-europe.competitor.com, eating your way to stress fracture recovery may be the way to go. The site suggests establishing “good pre- and post-training nutrition habits,” eating foods rich with nutrients such as iron, zinc, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Make sure to get adequate sleep, as “it assists with nutrient absorption and recovery.” Maintaining a healthy diet of protein and carbs will help with training and physical therapy as well as stress fracture prevention.

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 Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. 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 offices located in New Jersey. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Monday, 04 April 2016 11:59

Lourawls Nairn Jr. Still in Recovery from Plantar Fasciitis

plantar fasciitis6 Michigan State Spartans coach Tom Izzo saaid “his top priority is making sure the plantar fasciitis doesn’t linger into next season.” Izzo was discussing the status of sophomore guard Lourawls Nairn Jr., who was on recovery from his plantar fasciitis condition. Izzo was unsure about Nairn Jr.’s status and whether he will be able to return to play for the next season. Nairn Jr. has been battling his plantar fasciitis since the summer and has been visiting doctors.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

· Excessive running

· Non-supportive shoes

· Overpronation

· Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

· Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices

· Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis

· Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in New Jersey. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Blog

Hammertoe can form from wearing High Heels

Choosing Walking as an Exercise Routine

Blisters Develop after Repeated Friction

Holger Badstuber Playing Again After Broken Ankle Injury in February

Osteoarthritis Affects 80% of North Americans by the Age of 65

Devin Robinson Needed Surgery for Broken Foot

Plantar Fasciitis is Caused by the Inflammation of the Plantar Fasciia

Heel and Foot Ailments Become More Common As We Age

Managing Your Bunion Condition

Avoid contracting Plantar Warts at the Gym

More...

Choosing the Right Footwear for Your Baby

Joey King Out with Broken Foot

Eating Your Way through Stress Fracture Recovery

Lourawls Nairn Jr. Still in Recovery from Plantar Fasciitis

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