Items filtered by date: December 2023

Podiatrists are medical professionals specializing in the care of the feet, ankles, and lower extremities. They play a vital role in keeping people on their feet and pain-free. A podiatrist's job description includes diagnosing and treating a wide range of foot and ankle conditions, from common issues such as ingrown toenails and plantar warts to more complex problems consisting of fractures and chronic conditions like diabetes-related foot complications. Podiatrists may perform surgeries, prescribe medication, and provide guidance on how to choose proper footwear. Preventive care is also a significant aspect of their work, as they educate patients on foot health and methods to prevent future problems. Their expertise extends to analyzing how a person's feet and lower limbs impact their overall health, making them an essential part of the healthcare system and instrumental in enhancing people's quality of life. If you are interested in learning about what the role of a podiatrist is, it is suggested that you contact this type of doctor who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to 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.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

• Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
• Use innovative methods to treat conditions
• Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
• Correct walking patterns and balance
• Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

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.

Pregnancy is a joyous but challenging period, with an increased risk of falls affecting approximately one-third of expectant mothers. To reduce this risk, pregnant women may want to avoid slippery surfaces, use stair rails, opt for flatter shoes, and move at a measured pace. Engaging in regular physical activities, such as yoga or walking, has consistently shown to reduce the likelihood of falls. Research underscores the significance of maintaining ankle stiffness to prevent falls during pregnancy. A recent study revealed that women in their third trimester face challenges with postural equilibrium, detected through stability tests. Wearing a maternity support belt emerges as a practical solution, as it helps to enhance balance and reduce fall risk, especially in the later stages of pregnancy. In addition to these measures, maintaining a well-balanced diet and staying adequately hydrated contributes to overall health during pregnancy. Adequate fluid intake helps prevent dizziness and promotes joint flexibility, which further reduces the risk of accidental falls. By incorporating these lifestyle adjustments, expectant mothers can navigate the physical changes of pregnancy more safely and enjoy a healthier and stable journey into motherhood. For help in dealing with falls during pregnancy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from New Jersey Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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.

Choosing the right walking shoes is essential for ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable walking experience. To find the perfect pair of walking shoes, start by determining where you plan to walk, whether it involves avid treks or easy strolls with your dogs on a short woodland path. Prioritize comfort, looking for shoes with a cushioned heel collar, insole, and midsole to maximize comfort during every step. Additionally, opt for shoes that provide flexibility, allowing your toes to move naturally and ensuring a smooth and steady walking motion. Consider the materials used in the shoes. Synthetic materials, often lighter in weight, provide durability without compromising performance during long walks. If you have wide feet, choose shoes with a larger toe box to prevent discomfort and allow ample room for natural toe movement. Check for sufficient arch support in the midsole to protect and support your feet during walks. Choose lightweight shoes to avoid fatigue and enhance endurance during long walks. Lastly, evaluate whether you need waterproof materials based on expected weather conditions. If you need help in navigating the various factors involved in selecting the right walking shoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a gait analysis, foot exam, and expert advice.

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from New Jersey Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

• Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
• Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
• Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
• Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
• Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

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.

Walking is a popular low-impact exercise with numerous health benefits, and ensuring your feet stay happy and healthy is key to maximizing those benefits. Proper form and posture when walking are essential elements to consider to prevent injuries. Maintaining proper posture and alignment is the foundation of a healthy walking routine. Imagine a string pulling you up from the crown of your head, ensuring you stand tall. Keep your head up, eyes forward, and shoulders back, allowing your arms to move freely at your sides. Tighten your abs and align your rib cage with your hips, knees, ankles, and second toe to avoid strain on your lower half. Pay close attention to your feet during each step. Adopt a rolling motion of heel, ball, and toes to distribute stress evenly across the lower body. Avoid slamming your entire foot down, as this can increase the risk of knee, hip, and ankle injuries. Notice your walking cadence and try to find a balance between longer, less frequent steps and shorter, more frequent steps to reduce joint stress. While walking is generally low-risk, staying alert is essential. Watch out for obstacles like curbs, potholes, or uneven terrain, especially in low-light conditions. If you have foot problems that you believe may be an after effect of your walking routine, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, 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.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctors to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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.