Items filtered by date: April 2018

The feet are the foundation of the body, and the majority of runners are aware of the importance of choosing to wear proper running shoes. It’s helpful to be aware of your foot’s shape, as this will aid in buying shoes that fit properly. Shoes with added stability are often purchased by runners who have flat feet, and runners with exceptionally high arches are prone to choose shoes that have additional padding. Typically, most runners will go up half a size when buying running shoes, which will allow ample room for the toes to move about. When the right shoes are chosen that are a perfect fit for your feet, the sport of running may be enjoyed to its fullest extent.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from New Jersey Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

  • Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
  • There should be little to no slipping at the heel
  • Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
  • Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
  • Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

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

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Monday, 23 April 2018 00:00

What is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis, and there are several causes for this condition. If an excess amount of alcohol is frequently ingested, in addition to being overweight or having a predisposed inherited gene, gout may become a painful ailment to contend with. Food containing a large amount of purines, which may cause excess crystals to form and lodge in the joints, may be a source for this condition to occur. Extreme pain may become evident during an attack, accompanied with redness and swelling. Additional symptoms may include difficulty in moving the toe as a result of being stiff and tender. Bouts of this type of arthritis typically fade in 10 days, and recent research has suggested that there’s inconclusive evidence if and when another attack will reappear. If you are suffering from this affliction, please consult your podiatrist for prevention techniques, which may include dietary changes that are beneficial for you.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. 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 type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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 and ankle needs.

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Monday, 16 April 2018 00:00

What Does A Bunion Look Like?

If your big toe appears to be bent, causing the side of the toe to extend abnormally, you may have what is referred to as a bunion. It often appears to be swollen, red and sensitive, and may gradually worsen if left untreated. This deformity is often caused by a predisposed genetic trait, although it may be common in people who choose to wear high heels or other poorly fitting shoes. Bunions are often the result of the toes not having adequate room to move, which may possibly alter the structure of the foot. Treatments may include wearing shoes that fit properly with ample room to accommodate the bunion, or splints designed specifically for feet with this condition so relief may be attained. If the bunion is severe, surgery may be a necessary treatment option. It’s suggested to consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and relief options that are best for you.

 

If you are suffering from bunions, 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 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 due to 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 worsen existing bunions

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 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.

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Women who choose to wear high heels are generally aware of  their feet hurting at the end of the day or night. This type of discomfort is a consequence of wearing these specific shoes, and this typically occurs due to the toes being crammed into a small area with little room to move freely. There are several conditions that can develop from wearing high heels, including the formation of bunions, which is a large and unsightly bony lump on the side of the big toe. Corns and calluses are among additional foot issues that are prone to developing, including pain in the heel, which can cause extreme distress. If high heels are an important part of your wardrobe, it's suggested to wear a lower heel, which may possibly diminish any discomfort that is felt.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from New Jersey Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

  • Ankle Joints
  • Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
  • Balls of the Feet
  • Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
  • Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

  • Corns
  • Calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Morton’s Neuroma
  • Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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 and ankle needs.

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Monday, 02 April 2018 00:00

Can Winter Cause Cracked Heels?

Winter can bring on many ailments, including skin on the heels that split, which is often referred to as cracked heels. Typically, this originates from dry skin, and the cold weather may cause the skin to lose moisture. If this is coupled with other conditions, such as diabetes or circulation issues, the results may lead to developing cracked heels. There are several symptoms of this ailment, often including itching, and the skin becoming thick and possibly flaking. If the fissures, or cracks, in the skin become severe, the possibility of an infection may occur. Prevention of this condition can consist of utilizing a moisturizer on your feet while paying extra attention when applying cream to the heels. Recent research has suggested that eating a diet consisting of fruits and vegetables may help to prevent cracked heels from the inside out. Please consider a consultation with a podiatrist if you have cracked heels and would like additional information.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from New Jersey Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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.

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