March 2019

The medical condition that is known as hammertoe will typically affect the second, third, or fourth toe. If you notice a downward bend in the middle joints of those toes, it may often resemble the shape of a hammer. It typically causes pain and discomfort and wearing shoes may be difficult. The causes of hammertoe may include having a genetic trait, or wearing shoes that do not have adequate room in the toe area for the toes to move freely in. Additionally, if an injury has occurred to the toes, this may be a reason for this condition to develop. The toes may be unable to bend, and surgery may be required to permanently straighten the toes. If you are noticing symptoms of hammertoe, it is advised to schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can guide your toward proper treatment.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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 care needs.

Common symptoms from the condition known as gout may include swelling and tenderness of the big toe. Many patients may also be aware of the severe pain and discomfort gout may cause. It is known to lodge uric acid crystals in the joints, and this generally occurs in the big toe. Elevated uric acid levels in the bloodstream is typically the reason for this condition to develop, and it may be a result of the body’s inability to excrete uric acid via the kidneys. If certain foods are frequently ingested, this may lead to the formation of gout. These can include shellfish, excessive amounts of alcohol, or red meat. There may also be a connection between patients who have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, and the development of gout. If you are suffering from gout, speak to a podiatrist who can prescribe you the proper treatment.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. 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 form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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 care needs.

Common symptoms from the condition known as gout may include swelling and tenderness of the big toe. Many patients may also be aware of the severe pain and discomfort gout may cause. It is known to lodge uric acid crystals in the joints, and this generally occurs in the big toe. Elevated uric acid levels in the bloodstream is typically the reason for this condition to develop, and it may be a result of the body’s inability to excrete uric acid via the kidneys. If certain foods are frequently ingested, this may lead to the formation of gout. These can include shellfish, excessive amounts of alcohol, or red meat. There may also be a connection between patients who have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, and the development of gout. If you are suffering from gout, speak to a podiatrist who can prescribe you the proper treatment.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Genine Befumo, DPM from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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 care needs.

Patients who are afflicted with chronic foot pain may consider a treatment option that is known as shockwave therapy. It is known to be a form of therapy that may be effective in initiating the body's healing response. This may help specific foot conditions, which may include plantar fasciitis, or tendonitis. There are two ways to administer shockwave therapy, and they are referred to as low and high energy treatments. The former is given in a series of treatments, and typically does not cause pain or discomfort. High energy treatments are carried out in one treatment session, and may be quite painful. Anesthesia may be used to ensure a reasonable comfort level while this type of treatment is obtained. If you suffer from chronic foot pain, it is advised to speak to a podiatrist who can help you to determine if shockwave therapy is correct for you.

Shockwave therapy is a treatment commonly used to treat various injuries and conditions, particularly plantar fasciitis in the feet. To learn more, consult with 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.

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.

Who Benefits from Shockwave?

Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.

Fast and Easy

The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, addressing the source of the problem and allowing treatment to last for a long time.

Treatment & Recovery Time

Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia. This treatment is a better option to surgery, since it is proven safe.

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.

Patients who are afflicted with chronic foot pain may consider a treatment option that is known as shockwave therapy. It is known to be a form of therapy that may be effective in initiating the body's healing response. This may help specific foot conditions, which may include plantar fasciitis, or tendonitis. There are two ways to administer shockwave therapy, and they are referred to as low and high energy treatments. The former is given in a series of treatments, and typically does not cause pain or discomfort. High energy treatments are carried out in one treatment session, and may be quite painful. Anesthesia may be used to ensure a reasonable comfort level while this type of treatment is obtained. If you suffer from chronic foot pain, it is advised to speak to a podiatrist who can help you to determine if shockwave therapy is correct for you.

Shockwave therapy is a treatment commonly used to treat various injuries and conditions, particularly plantar fasciitis in the feet. To learn more, consult with 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.

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.

Who Benefits from Shockwave?

Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.

Fast and Easy

The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, addressing the source of the problem and allowing treatment to last for a long time.

Treatment & Recovery Time

Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia. This treatment is a better option to surgery, since it is proven safe.

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.

People who enjoy the sport of walking or running are likely to be familiar with the differences between shoes of both sports. The types of shoes chosen will typically depend on the walking and running movements. The heel will generally come in contact with the ground first while walking, and the middle of the foot strikes the ground initially while running. Additionally, both feet are off the ground during the running phase, and this does not occur while walking. Running shoes are likely to have extra cushioning, which may be helpful in providing adequate support. Additionally, it may be beneficial to choose a running shoe that has a higher heel than walking shoes. This may be useful in providing additional support. Walkers may find that shoes with a flexible toe area may be beneficial in providing a stable walking experience. If you would like more information about how to choose running or walking shoes, please speak with a podiatrist who can properly guide you.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with one of our podiatrists from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctors can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

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 care needs.