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Monday, 29 February 2016 08:37

Plantar Fasciitis characterized by Heel Pain

plantar fasciitis6Foot pain is a common condition that many people suffer from. There are several factors behind foot pain, and pain can be attributed to poor-fitting footwear, genetics, posture, or weight gain. Plantar fasciitis is one condition that is characterized by its heel pain, which typically occurs on the underside of the foot near the arch or heel. The condition can easily be prevented and treated by stretching the foot and calf regularly, wearing orthotics, icing the area with an ice pack, or wearing a night splint that stretches the foot while one is sleeping.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, consult with one of our podiatrists of University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctors will attend to all of your podiatric needs.

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 East Brunswick and Monroe Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Plantar Fasciitis

Monday, 22 February 2016 09:40

Damian Lillard Sidelined Due to Heel Pain

foot injuryDamian Lillard of the Trail Blazers will be sidelined for his third game, due to the pain in his heel. Lillard “had hoped to return for Saturday’s contest,” but the heel pain had caught up with him. Lillard has been suffering from plantar fasciitis for about three weeks in his left foot, and had to call out from the game against the Cavaliers. He was also unable to play Atlanta, ending his consecutive games streak, and also against New Orleans.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries need proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Sport Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Plantar Fasciosis
  • Achilles Tendinitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains

Sports-related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in East Brunswick and Monroe Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about sports related injuries.

Monday, 15 February 2016 18:41

Sweating more common for Certain People

fungal toenail2Sweating is the body’s mechanism for cooling down if one’s body temperature begins to rise. While all people sweat, some do sweat more than others. Women, while having more sweat glands, typically sweat less than men. Those who are more fit also tend to sweat more that those who are not as fit. Excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis, is a condition in which the body sweats excessively. Aside from the underarms, this can also occur particularly in the hands and feet

If you have any concerns, consult with 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.

Hyperhidrosis of the Feet

Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.

Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.

Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.

In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.

A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in East Brunswick and Monroe Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about hyperhidrosis of the feet.

broken foot6Senior defensive tackle, Tommy Schutt, will not be playing against Notre Dame due to a broken foot. The news comes as huge news since this Fiesta Bowl is the final game of the season for Ohio State, making Schutt’s 25 tackle record vital to the game’s success. While Schutt will be missed, Joey Bosa, Donovan Munger, and Tracey Springle are set to take his place.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists of University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. 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 East Brunswick and Monroe Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Broken Feet

broken foot4Mitchell Starc, Australian rugby star, is set to miss a few games due to a stress fracture in the third metatarsal of his right foot. While Starc initially complained about his troublesome ankle, scans showed the injury was based more so in the foot. This is a major blow to the Australian team, halting their plans for the next year. Although Starc was able to play while injured in 2013, it is unlikely that event will occur again.

Activities, where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists of University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. 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 East Brunswick and Monroe Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Monday, 25 January 2016 21:42

Facts About Corns

athletes foot9Dr. Parichart Vaikayee, DPM, dispels five commonly thought myths about foot injuries. One particular issue that she highlights is corns. Corns form as a result of a hammertoe, when the toe bone protrudes and rubs against surfaces. This leads to the build-up of skin, or corns. Corns are different than calluses, and can’t be eliminated through at-home treatment. Corn removal requires surgical care and should not be attempted by yourself.

If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists of University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What are they? And how do you get rid of them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:
- Well-fitting socks
- Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
- Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Salicylic acid can help in getting rid of these corns because it dissolves keratin, which is the protein that makes up a good majority of corns. Podiatrists recommend that people with diabetes not use salicylic acid but should consult with their podiatrist regarding the treatment of corns.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in East Brunswick and Monroe Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Corns on the Feet

Arthritis5British researchers at Manchester University published their findings on arthritis in the Journal of Clinical Investigation. Their findings suggest that eating and exercising at a set time every day can help combat the effects of arthritis. This practice allegedly leads to small genes creating “biological clocks” in the body, which can help maintain healthy cartilage. Arthritis exists as a debilitating disease that leads to the wearing and tearing of cartilage of joints, which can affect overall mobility. Dr. Qing-Jung Meng, a biologist at Manchester University, found that these small body clocks encourage the mending of damaged cartilage and can be activated by continual daily exercise.  

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists of University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

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 East Brunswick and Monroe Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about arthritic foot care.

slower walkingWalking at a slower speed than normal may be a symptom of Alzheimer’s. Although walking is considered a healthy exercise for everyone, those who are elderly and slowly may have symptoms associated with having increased amyloid amounts, an abnormal protein linked to Alzheimer’s disease. Research done in France suggests that there is a possible association “between slow walking speed and amyloid in several areas of the brain, including a region called the putamen.” Natalia del Campo, the study author at the Gerontopole and the Centre of Excellence in Neurodegeneration of Toulouse, says that “subtle walking disturbances” may be one attributable symptom linked to memory concerns.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists of University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

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 East Brunswick and Monroe Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Elderly and Feet

broken foot4Senior Mitchell Loewen, the Arkansas Razorbacks defensive lineman, suffered a broken foot injury and will be unable to play for the rest of the season. Loewen plans to undergo surgery and won’t be playing for the Razorbacks again. Arkansas coach Bret Bielema said that “Loewen is the 10th player to break a bone this year for Arkansas.” Loewen has played 10 games for the Razorbacks and was scouted by NFL teams during this season.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists of University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. 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 East Brunswick and Monroe Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Broken Feet

Monday, 28 December 2015 14:01

Orthotics Help With Overall Body Structure

foot care6Choosing the right orthotics for your feet can help with the support of your overall body structure, and the process of creating orthotics is relatively simple and easy. Kevin Wong, DC, suggests determining the right orthotics length size for patients’ shoes. There are two different methods to constructing the orthotics, the non-weight-bearing method and the weight-bearing method. In the non-weight-bearing method, plaster material is molded around the foot to create a negative impression, which is then used to form the orthotic. In the weight-bearing method, patients’ feet can be scanned for certain measurements, which can then be applied to the construction of custom-made orthotics.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists of University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What are Orthotics?

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, but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct over arched 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 issue, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and more severe 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 are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist on the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain free.

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

Read more about Orthotics

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