January 2016

Dr. 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.

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British 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.

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Walking 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.

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Senior 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