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Monday, 03 July 2017 00:00

How Alcohol May Be Linked to Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis, and it occurs as a result of uric acid buildup in the blood. This buildup of uric acid forms needle-like crystals which may cause severe pain in the joints and swelling. Although gout can be managed with proper prescription medications, people who have it should also try to make dietary changes to reduce symptoms. Studies have shown that “men who drink more than two alcoholic drinks a day - especially beer - could increase their chance of getting gout.” Researchers found that the alcoholic content in beer not only impairs the liver’s ability to detoxify uric acid, but it also affects the kidney’s ability to get rid of it. If you struggle with gout, you should consult with your podiatrist to figure out the best ways to prevent an attack in the future.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in East Brunswick and Monroe Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Everything You Need to Know About Gout

Erik Karlsson of the Ottawa Senators is currently recovering from foot surgery and unfortunately may miss the start of the 2017-2018 season. Karlsson suffered the injury during the postseason but is expected to be rehabilitating it until October. According to the team’s general manager, “Erik underwent surgery earlier today in Charlotte, North Carolina, to repair torn tendons in his left foot. The tears, which occurred during this year's Stanley Cup playoffs, were found during an MRI as part of an extensive medical evaluation following the season.” It is expected that Karlsson’s recovery process will last about four months.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Genine Befumo, DPM of University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctor will assist you with all of 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 alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

  • Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
  • 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 office located in Monroe Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Foot Surgery

Erik Karlsson of the Ottawa Senators is currently recovering from foot surgery and unfortunately may miss the start of the 2017-2018 season. Karlsson suffered the injury during the postseason but is expected to be rehabilitating it until October. According to the team’s general manager, “Erik underwent surgery earlier today in Charlotte, North Carolina, to repair torn tendons in his left foot. The tears, which occurred during this year's Stanley Cup playoffs, were found during an MRI as part of an extensive medical evaluation following the season.” It is expected that Karlsson’s recovery process will last about four months.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctors will assist you with all of 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 alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

  • Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
  • 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 one of our offices located in East Brunswick and Monroe Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Foot Surgery

It is important that you own the right pair of survival boots when you are faced with an environmental disaster. Prior to purchasing a pair of boots for your feet, consider the following criteria your boots should meet to ensure a proper fit. Your boots should be comfortable, durable, and breathable while simultaneously providing support and traction. Comfort should be first on your list of concerns so that you can move around without undergoing unnecessary pain. Support is also crucial so that your feet will be able to walk for miles without encountering any ankle related injuries. Furthermore, durability is important so that your shoes will last for a long time without wearing down easily. Traction is also an important factor because you will need to maintain your balance in slippery environments.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Genine Befumo, DPM from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

  • Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
  • Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
  • Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
  • Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Monroe Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Getting the Right Shoe Size: To Keep Your Feet Happy

It is important that you own the right pair of survival boots when you are faced with an environmental disaster. Prior to purchasing a pair of boots for your feet, consider the following criteria your boots should meet to ensure a proper fit. Your boots should be comfortable, durable, and breathable while simultaneously providing support and traction. Comfort should be first on your list of concerns so that you can move around without undergoing unnecessary pain. Support is also crucial so that your feet will be able to walk for miles without encountering any ankle related injuries. Furthermore, durability is important so that your shoes will last for a long time without wearing down easily. Traction is also an important factor because you will need to maintain your balance in slippery environments.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

  • Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
  • Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
  • Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
  • Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are 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 one of our offices located in East Brunswick and Monroe Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Getting the Right Shoe Size: To Keep Your Feet Happy
Monday, 12 June 2017 00:00

Why Flip Flops are Bad for Your Feet

Wearing flip-flops excessively can cause your foot to become vulnerable. A lack of support may cause critical problems in the arch, forefoot, and heel of the foot, so it is important not to frequently wear flip-flops in order to avoid these issues. Other problems that may result from wearing flip-flops include: back pain, knee pain, stress fractures, and bone spurs. If you frequently wear flip-flops and are experiencing pain in these areas, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Genine Befumo, DPM from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

  • Ankle problems
  • Hip problems
  • Lower back problems
  • Pain in the balls of the feet
  • Problems with foot arches
  • Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

  • Sprained ankles
  • Blisters
  • Infections
  • Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Monroe Township, NJ .  We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Flip Flops and Feet
Monday, 12 June 2017 00:00

Why Flip Flops are Bad for Your Feet

Wearing flip-flops excessively can cause your foot to become vulnerable. A lack of support may cause critical problems in the arch, forefoot, and heel of the foot, so it is important not to frequently wear flip-flops in order to avoid these issues. Other problems that may result from wearing flip-flops include: back pain, knee pain, stress fractures, and bone spurs. If you frequently wear flip-flops and are experiencing pain in these areas, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

  • Ankle problems
  • Hip problems
  • Lower back problems
  • Pain in the balls of the feet
  • Problems with foot arches
  • Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

  • Sprained ankles
  • Blisters
  • Infections
  • Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in East Brunswick and Monroe Township, NJ.  We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Flip Flops and Feet

Gregory Polanco of the Pittsburgh Pirates is expected to be sidelined for a few games after being diagnosed with a sprained right ankle. Fortunately for Polanco, he will be able to avoid a trip to the disabled list. The injury looked a lot worse when the outfielder had to be carted off the field in a game against the Diamondbacks. Jose Osuna is expected to fill in while Polanco is out, and will likely get to start in right field. Osuna is hitting .231, with 12 RBI’s, and 3 home runs in 86 plate appearances this season.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Genine Befumo, DPM from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Mild to moderate bruising
  • Limited mobility
  • Swelling
  • Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Monroe Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Ankle Sprains

Gregory Polanco of the Pittsburgh Pirates is expected to be sidelined for a few games after being diagnosed with a sprained right ankle. Fortunately for Polanco, he will be able to avoid a trip to the disabled list. The injury looked a lot worse when the outfielder had to be carted off the field in a game against the Diamondbacks. Jose Osuna is expected to fill in while Polanco is out, and will likely get to start in right field. Osuna is hitting .231, with 12 RBI’s, and 3 home runs in 86 plate appearances this season.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Mild to moderate bruising
  • Limited mobility
  • Swelling
  • Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in East Brunswick and Monroe Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Ankle Sprains
Wednesday, 31 May 2017 00:00

Choose the Right Running Shoe For You

One of the best ways to avoid running injuries is to make sure you are wearing properly fitting shoes. There are three types of running shoes: stability/neutral, cushion, and motion control. Prior to starting your running program, it is crucial that you buy the right shoe type for the activity you are about to partake in. Shoes also have different components that serve different purposes. The part that is responsible for providing support is called the midsole. The midsole acts as a shock absorber, which protects your body from the dangers of repeated loading from running. The stiffer the midsole, the more control the shoe gives your foot. It is important that you try on the shoe you want before purchasing to ensure that it is great fit for you.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact Genine Befumo, DPM from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

  • Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
  • Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
  • Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Monroe Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type
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