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Monday, 17 August 2015 00:00
Many Arthritis Sufferers Turning to Acupuncture
According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, one out of every three Americans suffers from arthritis pain; many of those being over the age of 50. Recently many people have been receiving acupuncture as a form of treatment for the disease. Popular in Chinese medicine, acupuncture is used when the energy in the body is blocked. Many have found acupuncture to be beneficial especially since the treatment can be modified to be unique to the individual's needs.
The feet are often common sites for arthritis to occur in the body. If you are struggling with arthritis in your feet or ankles, call one of our podiatrists of University Foot and Ankle Center, LLC. Our doctors can examine your lower extremities to help alleviate your joint pain.
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 and treatment technologies for all of your foot ankle injuries.
Published in Blog
Monday, 10 August 2015 00:00
Rolling Stone Ronnie Wood’s Ex-Wife Suffered from Hammertoes
Jo Wood, ex-wife of Rolling Stone’s Ronnie Wood, has suffered from hammertoes, a condition that for her was hereditary and deformed her second toe. The pain eventually had gotten so bad that Wood decided to get surgery in which the surgeon had to remove a portion of the bone to realign the toe. Although there are non-surgical treatments, surgery is an option if pain does not recede. Eighteen months after her surgery, Wood was back to her regular routine.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. If you are suffering from hammertoes, contact one of our podiatrists of University Foot and Ankle Center, 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 East Brunswick and Monroe Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Published in Blog
Monday, 03 August 2015 00:00
University of Delaware Students Create Injury Monitoring Boot
Undergraduate students at the University of Delaware have created a SmartBoot designed to closely monitor the progress of broken foot. The design behind the boot came from the idea that after sustaining an injury on the lower extremities, patients are sent home with instructions they may not know how to follow correctly. Professor Jill Higginson states, “Patients are often trained in the clinic on a bathroom scale and then sent home with crutches, with the assumption they can consistently perform partial weight bearing on their own.” The SmartBoot is designed to fix the confusion by studying the progress of the foot and letting the doctor know if the correct amount of weight has been put on the foot.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you are seeking treatment for a broken foot, visit one of our podiatrists of University Foot and Ankle Center, LLC. Our doctors will assess your injury and provide you with quality treatment.
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.
Published in Blog
Monday, 27 July 2015 00:00
Cricket Champion Matt Prior Retires Early Due to Achilles tendon Injury
Matt Prior was forced to end his cricket career early due to a persistent Achilles tendon injury. Although Prior had operated on the injury, he had trouble rehabilitating the tendon and the intensity levels of training would just set him back. The injury had made playing as the Sussex wicketkeeper extremely difficult and painful. Prior is retiring at a very early age thirty-three, but has been thankful to be a part of one of the highest levels of cricket in England.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns contact one of our podiatrists of University Foot and Ankle Center, 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
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.
Published in Blog
Monday, 20 July 2015 00:00
Colorado Rockies’ Corey Dickerson Suffering from Plantar Fasciitis
Corey Dickerson of the Colorado Rockies left his most recent game against the Dodgers in three innings due to plantar fasciitis pain. The heel pain has been bothering Dickerson’s left foot since spring training and the pain increased as he chased a ball in the outfield. The left fielder has been a key player for the team, but has been struggling in recent months due to his foot pain and has not participated in at least three of the ten Rockies’ games this season.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, visit one of our podiatrists of University Foot and Ankle Center, LLC. Our doctors can treat your heel pain as well as any other foot or ankle condition.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of a 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 contact our offices in East Brunswick and Monroe Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Published in Blog
Monday, 13 July 2015 00:00
Australian Surgeons Try Out Less Invasive Surgical Method for Bunions
Australian surgeons are now practicing minimally invasive surgery for bunions to reduce the amount of pain and recovery time for patients. Michelle Thacker of North South Wales experienced both minimally invasive surgery and traditional bunion surgery for the bunions on her left and right feet. The difference between the two are that minimally invasive surgeries include a bunch of smaller 3mm incisions with the bunion drilled and realigned with screws; traditional surgeries include one large incision. After the second bunion surgery using minimally invasive surgery, Thacker stated, “the recovery time was much quicker - a lot less pain post op, I can barely see a scar and I was able to run after three months.”
Bunion surgery usually occurs after non-surgical methods have proved to be ineffective. If you have any concerns contact one of our podiatrists of University Foot and Ankle Center, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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 concerns 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.
Published in Blog
Monday, 06 July 2015 00:00
The Best Running Shoe is Different for Each Individual Depending on their Foot Type
The “best shoe” when it comes to running shoes may not necessarily be the best running shoe for everyone. When purchasing new running shoes, it may be best to shop at specialty running stores where employees are trained to find the right shoe for each customer. Running stores will typically measure your feet, gait, and type of running to determine if you are a neutral runner or a runner that needs stability. Each runner has pronation in their feet, the inward roll of the foot as it hits the ground in the running cycle. Different shoes are created to help those that over pronate or under pronate while running.
The right running shoe is essentially different for every person. If you have any concerns contact one of our podiatrists of University Foot and Ankle Center, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Choosing the Right Running Shoes for Your Foot Type
Running is a physical activity although fun, can put a lot of stress on the joints, bones and ligaments of the body. Injury and stress on the foot can be an important factor on which kind of shoe you’re wearing. Running shoes should be worn based on your foot type. It is important to find out what fits you based on cushioning, stability and motion.
Determining your type
Speak with a shoe specialist or retail professional to see what your foot type is. They will be able to identify and measure your arch type, stride and gait.
Running Mechanics
When you are running or walking in your shoes, every step determines how your foot is landing. Pronation is the natural rolling of your ankle from outside to inside during foot strike.
Pronation is a correct form of walking or running. It helps absorb shock and store energy from your lower extremities. Neutral runners who pronate correctly do not need specific shoes, since they have stability and control.
Over-pronators
Those who run with excessive ankle rolling. Over-pronators tend to have ankles that angle inward, flat feet, and or bowed legs. This can cause a series of injuries: of the knees, ankles and Achilles tendons.
Under-pronation
Is less common than over-pronation. This usually happens to those who have inflexible feet and high arches. Even though there is less rotational stress on the ankles and knees, it prevents any kind of shock absorptions. Under-pronation needs shoes with increase in cushion and flexibility.
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.
Published in Blog
Monday, 29 June 2015 00:00
Vaccine Treatment for RA Found to be Effective through Queensland Study
Results from a study by the University of Queensland show that the scientist created vaccine treatment for rheumatoid arthritis is safe and effective. Professor Ranjeny Thomas states that the vaccination is meant to treat the underlying causes of the disease, whereas most therapies only work in reducing symptoms and in slowing the development. The vaccination therapy or immunotherapy is meant for those with potential high risk RA gene known as CCP-positive. With the help of this new therapy, patients can reduce the amount of CCP causing inflammation by teaching the immune system how to properly handle the gene.
Rheumatoid arthritis can be a very painful disease to deal with. If you are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, contact Dr. Genine Befumo and Dr. Mark J. Berger of University Foot and Ankle Center, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Severe pain and immobility are caused by an inflammation of the lining of your joints, and in worse cases the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone can occur.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, many cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area. Pain will often initially present in the toes before the condition worsens and spreads throughout the entire foot.
Symptoms
- Swelling and pain in the feet
- Stiffness in the feet
- Pain on the ball or sole of the feet
- Joint shift and deformation
Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that your podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor may ask you about your medical history and lifestyle to help determine possible causes of your RA.
Treatment
Unfortunately, there is no cure for RA, so treatment options are designed to specifically target the symptoms of it, most notably the pain it causes. Two types of anti-inflammatory drugs – non-steroidal or NSAIDs and corticosteroids – may be prescribed by your doctor. In some severe cases where the joints are too badly damaged, surgery may be an option. As always, speak with your podiatrist to help determine the appropriate treatment options available to 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.
Published in Blog
Monday, 22 June 2015 00:00
European Company Offers Product that Makes Shoes Fit Better
Sizers, an Irish and London based company is making proper fitting shoes trendy. The company has created little inserts for different parts of a shoe to make any shoe a better fit. The product has been know to shorten shoes by one whole shoe size and although Sizers are great for making shoes smaller, the inserts cannot be worn with sandals or open toed footwear.
Finding a proper fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information contact one of our podiatrists of University Foot and Ankle Center NJ. 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 East Brunswick and Monroe Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies for your foot and ankle needs.
Published in Blog
Monday, 15 June 2015 23:00
Swimming a Great Way to Stay In Shape While Reducing Pressure on Feet
According to Russell Pressler of TriHealth, swimming is a great way to relieve foot pain while staying physically active this summer. Although the average person can experience foot pain any time of year, it is more common for podiatrists to have visitors in the summer due the increased activity the warmer weather brings. For those experiencing a foot injury this summer, it is still possible to remain active this summer with swimming. The activity allows those injured to remain physically fit without adding pressure or overusing the foot.
Swimming is a great way to exercise the feet. If you have any questions regarding the benefits of swimming on the feet, consider contacting one of our podiatrists from University Foot and Ankle Center, LLC. Our doctors will explain the unique health advantages this activity has and recommend some simple exercises.
Benefits of Swimming and Foot care
Our feet receive the most stress on a daily basis. Walking, running, and long standing contribute to pain and stress on the feet. Swimming helps promote circulation and keep the body feeling great and healthy.
Benefits of swimming:
Improve blood circulation
- Swimming is a good, safe way to get in extra physical activity and improve circulation, without causing further trauma to the feet
Relieve aches or pains
- It takes all the pressure off of them, allowing the feet to relax and recover, and improves blood flow to them.
Circulation overall for diabetics
- Swimming contributes to blood flow, and increase oxygen levels within the body.
Reduce foot inflammation
- Swimming in warm water can increase blood flow and make it easier to move and stretch the afflicted foot. The feet are also exposed in water, giving them much needed air.
Swimming the helpful alternative:
Many people like the elderly and diabetics suffer from weakened muscles and joints. A water sport like swimming will support the body, thus allowing him or her to move freely. Blood flow circulation is a main trigger to tired inflamed 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 and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Published in Blog
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