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Wednesday, 10 August 2022 00:00

Toe Arthritis Is Common

Many people have arthritis in various joints of the body, and this often includes the toes. It can happen as a result of cartilage that has been worn away causing the bones in the toes to rub together. This can produce severe pain and discomfort and generally happens to the big toe. There are various reasons why arthritis in the toes occurs including genetic history, being overweight, and increased age. Additionally, women who frequently wear high heels may be at risk to develop this type of arthritis, so it is suggested that flat shoes are alternated with high heels. The first symptom to accompany arthritis is pain. Patients often describe it as an ache that develops gradually, or it may feel like a stabbing sensation. Additional symptoms may include stiffness or swelling, and there can be a clicking noise. As arthritis develops, it may become difficult to walk and may feel better when the affected foot is elevated. If you have arthritis in your toes, it is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment techniques.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain. The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it. Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

Swelling
Pain
Stiffness
Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
Age – Risk increases with age
Gender –Most types are more common in women
Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Riverdale, and Englewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Choosing Running Shoes for Different Terrains

Going shoe shopping for runners can be incredibly difficult. With so many options to choose from, different brands, and different styles, selecting a running shoe can often feel daunting and impossible. However, there are certain guiding rules that you might consider keeping in mind when going shoe shopping. One guiding principle to bear in mind is that the type of running shoe that you select ought to be a good fit for the type of terrain that you are running on. For example, runners ought to consider whether they are primarily running on treadmills, tracks, streets/sidewalks, paths, or hills. Each type of terrain calls for different features in a running shoe. Namely, running on hard surfaces such as streets or sidewalks requires the running shoe to be heavily cushioned. You might look for a running shoe with hefty cushions and padding material around the heel. Running on tracks, however, requires the running shoe to have spikes so that you can grip the track and increase your speed. Lastly, if you are running on outside terrain such as a hill or an outdoor path, you could consider shopping for a running shoe that is weather resistant and significantly durable. If you are a runner in the market for a good pair of running shoes, contact a podiatrist who can help you in your search.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. 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

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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

Wednesday, 27 July 2022 00:00

Keep Your Feet Healthy So You Can Stay Active

Have your feet inspected by a professional before starting a new sport or physical activity. Taking charge of your foot health will keep you in good physical condition and can help you avoid a potential injury, such as a fracture or sprained ankle.

Prevent injuries and see a foot specialist.

Tuesday, 26 July 2022 00:00

Preventing Plantar Fasciitis in Runners

One of the most common sources of foot pain is a condition known as plantar fasciitis. This foot affliction usually results in heel pain and affects the plantar fascia, or the band of tissue that runs between the heel and the toes. Many people who suffer from plantar fasciitis will experience sharp heel pain. Runners are one group of individuals that are at risk of developing plantar fasciitis, which can make running significantly more difficult and painful. There are several steps that runners can take to essentially decrease their risk of developing plantar fasciitis from running. First, runners can be intentional about choosing what surfaces they run on. Specifically, runners can choose to run on soft, rather than hard surfaces to ultimately reduce the impact and pressure felt on their heels. Also, to reduce the strain felt on feet, runners can be careful not to increase the distance of their runs by anything more than 10 percent each week. If a runner wants to be particularly proactive, they may choose to also perform a gait analysis with a professional. The purpose of performing this kind of analysis is to try to detect any potentially problematic qualities of the runner’s stride before it leads to issues like plantar fasciitis. If you are a runner and want to learn more about how you can reduce your risk of developing plantar fasciitis, reach out to a podiatrist.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

Excessive running
Having high arches in your feet
Other foot issues such as flat feet
Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
Maintain a healthy weight
If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

How Wearing an Ankle Brace Can Help

Ankle braces can help to support a weak ankle joint, as well as increase your mobility and protect the ankle from further injury. Anyone who has problems with plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, or previous ankle joint injuries may find it helpful to wear a brace. Experts believe it is best to wear an ankle brace after an injury, rather than beforehand, as a preventive measure. Constant use of an ankle brace can actually cause more harm than good, as it may prevent the surrounding muscles from gaining strength. Using a brace on occasion, say for a hike on uneven terrain or when playing a sport with a lot of lateral movement, is recommended. After an injury, a good ankle brace should provide support and stability during the healing process. In some cases, depending on the severity of the injury, a nylon boot may be recommended. As there are numerous types of ankle braces available, it’s a good idea to consult a podiatrist who can advise you on which one best suits your needs.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
Ankle sprains
Broken ankles
Achilles tendonitis
Achilles tendon rupture
Stress fractures
Bursitis
Tarsal tunnel syndrome
Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

Finding Perfect Shoes

Choosing shoes that are the correct size and fit can prevent unwanted foot injuries and discomfort. Key tips for finding perfect shoes are discussed here. Trace your foot and put the shoe you might buy on top of that tracing to see if it is the right size and shape. Shop for shoes in the afternoon as the foot naturally expands during the day. Wear the same foot coverings to the store that you might wear with the shoes being bought. Have a salesperson measure both feet and go with the size of your larger foot (if one of your feet is larger than the other). While standing, make sure the shoes have enough room in the toe box for the toes to move freely. Walk around in the shoes to make sure they fit properly. Are they wide enough, and not too snug or loose? Choose comfortable shoes by making sure the shoe does not have tags or seams that might irritate the foot or cause friction. Finally, examine the soles of the shoes to make sure they are sturdy and provide enough cushioning. If you are having trouble finding shoes that work well for your feet or are experiencing any kind of foot pain, consult with a podiatrist who can provide insight on shoes to purchase for your feet, as well as treat any foot problems you might have.

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 Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. 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.

Heel Pain in the Morning?

Heel pain can negatively affect your day-to-day life. Simple activities like walking can become incredibly uncomfortable or painful due to heel pain.

Don’t live with heel pain and get treated.

Tuesday, 05 July 2022 00:00

When an Ingrown Toenail Becomes Dangerous

Ingrown toenails can occur in individuals of all ages when the side of the nail digs into the skin. This condition is most prevalent in one’s big toe and will cause pain, discomfort, and redness where the ingrown nail meets the skin. Although the causes of ingrown toenails are varied, this condition frequently occurs due to improper nail care. If a toenail is cut too short, for example, the skin on the side of the nail can grow over top of the nail, eventually making it ingrown. Ingrown toenails can also develop when a toenail completely falls off following a serious foot injury or when the nail is severely ripped or misshapen. Some ingrown toenails—notably, milder ones—do not require immediate medical attention. However, making yourself aware of ingrown toenails is important to maintaining healthy feet because this condition can quickly become dangerous. Ingrown toenails may sometimes become infected, producing pus, swelling, warmness, and even unpleasant odors where the ingrown nail meets the skin. Letting such an infection go untreated may exacerbate the condition and the pain felt in the toenail. Upon receiving proper medical attention, your ingrown nail may be cared for by draining pus or removing sections of the ingrown nail. It is suggested you consult with your podiatrist if you feel an ingrown toenail is getting serious.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

Bacterial infections
Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

Wearing the Wrong Shoes May Cause a Corn to Develop

When a small area of thickened skin appears on the toes it can be indicative of a corn. Corns typically result from excessive friction which can happen from wearing socks or shoes that are too tight. Soft corns form in between the toes and are generally moist because of the area they are located. Hard corns can form on the outside of the pinky toe or on top of the toes. The core is located in the middle of the corn and is the part of the foot that endures the most amount of friction. Corns can cause extreme pain and discomfort, but relief may be found when the offending shoe is removed. The gait or walking style may be affected when a corn is present. This is the body’s natural defense in realigning the body to minimize existing corn pain. Many patients find the best shoes to wear have low heels and are comfortable with adequate room for the toes to move freely in. A pumice stone can be used on mild corns and this may help to reduce its size. If you have a large or stubborn corn that is prolonged after new shoes are worn, please confer with a podiatrist who can prescribe medicine to remove the corn.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

Tuesday, 21 June 2022 00:00

How Is a Broken Ankle Treated?

A broken ankle can cause severe pain and discomfort. It generally occurs from a fall and can affect one or several bones in the ankle. Some patients can hear the bone break at the time of the injury and this may sound like a grinding or snapping noise. Common symptoms can include swelling or bruising, and it is often difficult to walk. In severe fractures, the bone may protrude from the skin and appear deformed. It is important to have an X-ray performed which can determine the severity of the fracture. Relief may be found when keeping weight off of the affected foot and frequently elevating the foot may also reduce existing swelling. Many broken ankles are treated by wearing a cast or a boot. This is effective in keeping the ankle stable as healing takes place. It may be easier to walk when crutches are used. If you have broken your ankle, please consult a podiatrist immediately who can properly diagnose your condition and offer treatment options which may include surgery for severe breaks.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
Swelling around the area
Bruising of the area
Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

More...

Wednesday, 15 June 2022 00:00

Let the Expert Treat Your Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails can be painful and can make wearing shoes or walking uncomfortable. Seek professional help if you believe you've developed an ingrown toenail and be treated safely.

Tuesday, 14 June 2022 00:00

Walking May Be Affected by a Plantar Wart

Research has shown that plantar warts affect approximately ten percent of the population. They are warts that develop on the sole of the foot, and grow inward as a result of the weight the feet endure on a daily basis. They are generally caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV), and can enter the body through small cuts in the skin on the feet. They are prone to developing on the ball and heel of the foot, and are considered to be hyperkeratotic eruptions. Plantar warts can cause severe pain and discomfort, and aggressive treatment may be necessary to relieve the pain while walking. Some patients have to alter their style of walking if they have a plantar wart, and their posture may be affected. If you have a wart on the bottom of your foot, please seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
Hard or thick callused spots
Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

Freezing
Electric tool removal
Laser Treatment
Topical Creams (prescription only)
Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

Effective Exercises for the Feet

Many forms of exercise target the larger muscle groups, and the small muscles in the feet may be overlooked. Research has shown that when the ball of the foot is properly stretched, the overall foot may become stronger by improving arch and surrounding ligaments. An effective stretch is referred to as the golf ball stretch. This is done by rolling the sole of the foot over a golf ball for several minutes, then switching feet. Many people find it beneficial to walk on their tip toes, and this can help to build up the balls of the feet. Additionally, calf raises can be done with resistance as the strength in the feet increases. Having a full range of motion in your feet is essential in keeping the feet strong. This can be practiced by standing on a stool while dangling the legs. The big toe can be used as an imaginary pencil, and letters of the alphabet can be drawn with the toes. If you would like additional information about how exercise can benefit the feet, please contact a podiatrist who can provide useful information.

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 Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. 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.

Exercises for Hammertoe

The foot condition that is known as hammertoe is considered to be a deformity. It is a noticeable ailment that affects the toes, and can resemble a hammer. The middle joint of the second toe bends downward, and corns may form on top of the affected joint. The toes are made of muscles, bones, joints, tendons, and ligaments. These vital parts of the toe work together to bend and straighten the toes, and hammertoe can develop if there is an imbalance in the toe structure. It can come from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in, or from shoes that are too tight. Wearing the wrong footwear can squeeze the toes into a bent position. There are some patients who may be prone to developing this deformity that have existing medical conditions including flat feet, or longer toe bones. Relief may be found when specific stretches are practiced, including toe flexion and extension, and performing a foam roll massage. If you have been afflicted with hammertoe, please confer with a podiatrist who can determine the severity of this condition, and recommend correct treatment options.

Hammertoe

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

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

Pain in the affected toes
Development of corns or calluses due to friction
Inflammation
Redness
Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Riverdale, and Englewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Blog

Toe Arthritis Is Common

Choosing Running Shoes for Different Terrains

Keep Your Feet Healthy So You Can Stay Active

Preventing Plantar Fasciitis in Runners

How Wearing an Ankle Brace Can Help

Finding Perfect Shoes

Heel Pain in the Morning?

When an Ingrown Toenail Becomes Dangerous

Wearing the Wrong Shoes May Cause a Corn to Develop

How Is a Broken Ankle Treated?

More...

Let the Expert Treat Your Ingrown Toenails

Walking May Be Affected by a Plantar Wart

Effective Exercises for the Feet

Exercises for Hammertoe

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