As people age, changes in the feet, toes, and ankles can increase their risk of falling. Reduced joint flexibility, weaker muscles in the lower legs, and diminished sensation in the soles of the feet all contribute to poor balance. Common foot issues, such as bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet, may alter walking patterns and decrease stability. Limited ankle mobility also affects how the body responds to uneven surfaces or sudden shifts in direction. Even dry or thickened skin on the soles can affect grip and lead to slips. A podiatrist can evaluate these factors and provide care that supports balance. Options include suggesting supportive footwear, addressing biomechanical concerns, and prescribing custom orthotics to correct alignment. In some cases, foot or ankle surgery may be needed to correct structural problems that reduce stability. Strengthening the feet and ankles through guided exercises, along with proper foot care, can play an important role in fall prevention. If you are at risk for falling, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and suggestions for maintaining stability.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Orthotics play a key role in redistributing plantar pressure to relieve pain and prevent foot injuries. The material used in an orthotic insert can significantly impact how pressure is absorbed and spread across the foot. Softer materials, such as EVA, ethylene vinyl acetate, or gel, provide cushioning and shock absorption. These are often helpful for reducing pressure in sensitive areas, like the heel or ball of the foot. Firmer materials, such as polypropylene or carbon fiber, offer more support and control. These are commonly used to correct foot alignment and reduce excess pressure caused by abnormal gait or foot deformities. Some orthotics combine multiple materials to provide both cushioning and stability. Choosing the right orthotic material depends on individual foot needs, activity level, and specific conditions. If you experience foot pain or pressure points, it is suggested you see a podiatrist who can recommend the best orthotic design and materials to help distribute pressure more evenly and improve comfort.

If you are experiencing discomfort in your feet and would like to try custom orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Custom Orthotics?

Custom orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain. 

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Shoe inserts come in a wide variety and are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality, custom inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you're experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibility of using custom orthotics or shoe inserts. A podiatrist can determine which type of custom orthotic or shoe insert is right for you and help you take the first steps toward being pain-free.

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

The feet play a vital role in athletic performance by providing shock absorption, stability, and propulsion. They absorb impact forces during activities such as running and jumping, reducing stress on the joints and muscles. Proper foot alignment enhances stability, allowing athletes to maintain balance and control movement efficiently. The way the feet strike the ground affects energy transfer and can influence speed and endurance. A strong push-off from the toes generates power for sprinting, jumping, and sudden changes in direction. Foot mechanics also determine how effectively an athlete can pivot and accelerate. Strengthening the muscles of the feet and wearing appropriate footwear can enhance performance and reduce injury risk. If you participate in sporting activities and have injured your foot or ankle, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and offer effective injury prevention methods.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Gangrene is a serious condition that occurs when tissue dies due to a lack of blood flow or an infection. People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing gangrene, particularly in the feet, toes, and ankles, as a result of poor circulation and a reduced ability to heal wounds. High blood sugar can damage nerves, leading to loss of sensation, which makes it difficult to detect injuries. Small cuts, blisters, or ulcers may go unnoticed, increasing the chance of infection. If an infection worsens, tissue death can occur, and surgery may be required to remove the affected area. Signs of gangrene include skin discoloration, swelling, foul-smelling discharge, and numbness. If left untreated, the infection can spread and lead to severe complications. A podiatrist can help by identifying foot problems early, treating wounds before they worsen, and recommending strategies to improve circulation. Regular foot exams are essential for preventing complications like gangrene. If you have diabetes and suffer from foot ulcers, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist for checkups and appropriate care.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially 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, as 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, Riverdale, and Englewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, and swelling. This often affects the big toe and may result from improper nail trimming, wearing tight footwear, or toe injuries. People with naturally curved nails are more likely to experience ingrown toenails. If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can worsen, potentially leading to an infection that increases pain and interferes with daily activities. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the ingrown toenail and determine the most effective treatment. In some cases, the podiatrist may trim the ingrown portion of the nail, while more severe cases may require surgery to remove part of the nail and prevent regrowth in that area. Wearing shoes that fit properly and trimming toenails straight across can help reduce the risk of recurrence. If you have developed an ingrown toenail that shows signs of infection, it is suggested that you schedule an immediate appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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