Tuesday, 12 March 2024 00:00

If you are experiencing pain in the back of your heel, you may have injured your Achilles tendon. This tendon, named after the legendary Greek warrior Achilles, connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Achilles tendon injuries are common among athletes, particularly in sports like basketball and soccer. Symptoms include pain in the back of the heel or up the back of the leg, ranging from mild to severe. These injuries can occur in different places along the tendon, with the most serious being Achilles tendinopathy, which involves chronic inflammation and fluid buildup. Treatment typically involves rest, gentle stretching, and strengthening exercises. Prevention strategies include paying attention to foot mechanics, adjusting running stride, and building flexibility and strength in the lower legs through targeted exercises. If you are experiencing pain in your Achilles tendon area, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of New Jersey Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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 create immense 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 injuries 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 office located in Oradell, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about The Causes, Types, and Treatments of Achilles Tendon Injuries
Tuesday, 05 March 2024 00:00

Foot related issues are frequently encountered in older adults. Because of this, foot care is important for enhancing the overall health and well-being of this population. Various foot problems commonly seen in older individuals include bunions, corns, calluses, and issues related to toenails. These types of foot conditions can negatively impact mobility, independence, and quality of life in elderly people. Regular foot care routines in older adults include keeping the feet clean and dry, wearing properly fitting shoes, and examining the feet regularly. If you are an older adult, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist on your healthcare team. Finding and addressing foot problems early is valuable to prevent more serious issues, in addition to enhancing overall quality of life.

If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists of New Jersey Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

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

Read more about Geriatrics and Podiatry
Sunday, 03 March 2024 00:00

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

Tuesday, 27 February 2024 00:00

Gout is a form of arthritis that often leads to sudden pain and swelling in certain joints. Gout attacks commonly affect the big toe, as well as other joints like ankles, knees, and wrists. During an attack that affects the toes, resting and elevating the foot can help manage the pain. Staying hydrated and avoiding foods high in purines, including certain meats and seafood, may reduce the risk of future flare-ups. Incorporating certain low-impact exercise can also help combat gout attacks, but it is to be avoided during painful flare-ups. Other treatment options, which a podiatrist may recommend, include medication, cortisone injections, or surgery for more severe cases. If you are experiencing painful gout attacks in the toe joints, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer personalized treatment options. 

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from New Jersey Foot & Ankle Centers. 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 our office located in Oradell, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Gout

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