Indulgent foods are everywhere during the holiday season, and while you might be well aware of their effects on your waistline, you may be less aware of their effect on your foot health. If you have previously experienced a gout attack, or are at risk of gout due to family history or underlying conditions, it is very important to watch what you eat and drink during the holidays. Food and drinks rich in purines, such as red meats, shellfish, and alcoholic or sugary beverages, can lead to increased uric acid levels in the bloodstream. An overabundance of uric acid can cause urea crystals to form and lodge in the joints of the feet, leading to painful gout flare ups. To learn more about the connection between nutrition and foot health, speak with a podiatrist today.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. 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 offices located in Fair Lawn, Riverdale, and Englewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Poor circulation in your feet may cause them to feel cold or numb. They may also become discolored, and your legs and ankles may swell up. You can try to improve the circulation in your feet and legs by exercising, which can increase the blood and oxygen your muscles receive. Cutting your salt intake will reduce fluid retention (which restricts circulation). Eating foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids is also believed to be helpful. Sitting or standing too long can cause poor circulation in your feet and ankles as well, so try to alternate these positions throughout the day. Avoid wearing high heels or pointy shoes which can also interrupt blood flow to the feet and toes. Poor circulation in the lower extremities may be caused by more serious underlying conditions such as arteriosclerosis, diabetes, peripheral artery disease (PAD), or more. If you are experiencing any symptoms of poor circulation in your feet, ankles, or lower legs, make an appointment with a podiatrist for an examination and evaluation.
While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Poor Circulation in the Feet
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.
Symptoms
Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:
Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.
As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication.
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.
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The Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) test is a screening measure that a podiatrist can use to determine a patient’s risk of having peripheral artery disease (PAD). As many as 50% of people who have PAD are asymptomatic. This makes screenings very important for detection, diagnosis, and treatment. During an ABI test, the doctor uses a blood pressure cuff or ultrasound to take your blood pressure at the brachial artery in both upper arms and at the anterior and posterior tibial arteries in both lower legs. The doctor then takes the higher of the two brachial blood pressures and the highest of the anterior or posterior tibial artery blood pressures and compares the two numbers to form a ratio. This ratio correlates to one’s risk of having PAD. A ratio of 1.0-1.4 is considered within the normal range, while a ratio below 0.90 is considered abnormal. It is said that the lower the ratio, the more severe the PAD. For more information about vascular testing, please consult with a podiatrist.
Vascular testing plays an important part in diagnosing disease like peripheral artery disease. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, or diabetes, 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.
What Is Vascular Testing?
Vascular testing checks for how well blood circulation is in the veins and arteries. This is most often done to determine and treat a patient for peripheral artery disease (PAD), stroke, and aneurysms. Podiatrists utilize vascular testing when a patient has symptoms of PAD or if they believe they might. If a patient has diabetes, a podiatrist may determine a vascular test to be prudent to check for poor blood circulation.
How Is it Conducted?
Most forms of vascular testing are non-invasive. Podiatrists will first conduct a visual inspection for any wounds, discoloration, and any abnormal signs prior to a vascular test.
The most common tests include:
These tests are safe, painless, and easy to do. Once finished, the podiatrist can then provide a diagnosis and the best course for treatment.
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.
Ankle pain has many potential causes, ranging from simple fatigue to serious injuries. Sometimes it can be difficult to determine when you should manage your ankle pain at home and when you should seek medical care since ankle pain and accompanying symptoms may start out mild and worsen over time. Pay close attention to your symptoms. You should see a podiatrist if the ankle is misshapen, the calf is hot, swollen, or tender, or if you have difficulty putting weight on your leg. You should also schedule an appointment with a podiatrist if you have ankle pain that is worsening. If there is significant trauma to the ankle, it is imperative that you seek the care of a podiatrist immediately.
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:
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.
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.
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries to occur during sports. Ankle sprains develop when ligaments that connect the bones in the foot, ankle, or lower leg become stretched or torn. This generally takes place when the ankle twists or rolls inwards and causes the ligaments on the outside of the ankle to over-stretch. Common signs of a sprained ankle include swelling that may be accompanied with a bruise, pain, a snap or cracking sound at the time of injury, and difficulty walking or bearing weight. Most ankle sprains are treated with rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medicines, and additional support for the ankle. However, because the symptoms of an ankle sprain are very similar to those of a broken ankle, patients who may have endured a sprained ankle should consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis. A podiatrist will be able to make suggestions in order to prevent a recurring ankle sprain and provide a treatment technique that is specific to you.
Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, 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.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.
What Are the Symptoms?
Preventing a Sprain
Treatment of a Sprain
In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.
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.
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
Corns are small lumps that can form on the feet in response to friction. They may be hard or soft, depending on their location. Hard corns might form on the tops of the toes or on the soles of the feet, while soft corns usually form in between the toes. Though they are typically not serious, corns can be annoying and uncomfortable. A variety of home treatments can be used to find relief. For example, soaking your feet and rubbing dry areas of skin with a wet pumice stone can help soften hard corns. Moisturizing your feet regularly and wearing comfortable, well-fitted shoes can help prevent corns from developing. If you have painful, inflamed corns, or if you are diabetic, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for proper treatment.
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:
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.
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.
Plantar Fasciitis is an inflammation of the band of tissue that connects your heel with your toes on the sole of your foot. Many people believe inflammation throughout the body can be reduced by making certain dietary adjustments—particularly by increasing the consumption of anti-inflammatory foods and decreasing consumption of inflammatory foods. Anti-inflammatory foods include green leafy vegetables, carrots, broccoli, strawberries, blueberries, tomatoes, legumes, nuts, lean meats, as well as tuna and salmon which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Inflammatory foods have high levels of sugar, including soft drinks, pastries and sweets, candy, processed foods, junk food, refined grains, as well as oils containing omega-6 fats (corn/soy/cottonseed oil), saturated fats and red meats. For more information on how to heal the pain and inflammation of plantar fasciitis, schedule an appointment with 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?
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
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.
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.
A burning sensation in your feet can be extremely unpleasant and painful. Typically, burning pain is indicative of problems with the nerves in the feet. There are many potential causes for burning pain in the feet. Peripheral neuropathy, a condition in which the nerves of the feet are damaged, can cause burning pain, a pins and needles sensation, numbness, weakness, and altered balance. Symptoms tend to affect both feet and may come and go or progressively worsen. Morton’s neuroma is a condition that causes burning pain in the ball of the foot due to damage to a nerve between the toes. Charcot Marie Tooth disease is a genetic disorder that causes peripheral nerve damage and can affect foot structure and mobility. Other causes of burning pain include metatarsalgia, peripheral artery disease, tarsal tunnel syndrome, and diabetic neuropathy, among many others. If you have burning pain in your feet, it is strongly suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot 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.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
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.
Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
Posterior tibial tendonitis is a common cause of foot pain and is characterized by inflammation, degeneration, or tearing of the tibialis posterior tendon, located along the inside of the ankle. This tendon is responsible for stabilizing the lower leg and supporting the arch of the foot. When it is injured, you may experience pain, swelling, stiffness, reduced mobility, and fallen arches. Left untreated, this condition can progress from minor tendon damage to partial or complete rupture of the tendon. Potential treatments may include resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot, taking anti-inflammatory medications, wearing orthotics or more supportive shoes, and doing ankle strengthening exercises. In more severe cases, the ankle may need to be immobilized with a cast or boot for a period of time. If you are dealing with any foot or ankle pain, please seek the care of a podiatrist.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, 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.
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
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.
Uric acid is a by-product of the body breaking down purines—which are present in chemical compounds in the body as well as in certain foods we consume. Most uric acid is excreted, but when too much of it remains (hyperuricemia), it can crystalize on joints. One of the most painful arthritic conditions is known as gout. Some believe lower temperatures in the toes makes a more conducive environment for crystals to form, and so the big toe is often where gout occurs. Gout flare-ups can typically last for days or weeks before going into remission. During a flare-up, you may experience severe pain and swelling, along with heat and redness at the site. Gout with no single cause is known as primary gout. Secondary gout is due to kidney disease or medications affecting the kidney’s ability to expel urate. A podiatrist may make a diagnosis of gout after an examination, blood tests, imaging tests, and fluid aspiration from the affected joint.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. 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
Risk Factors
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 offices located in Fair Lawn, Riverdale, and Englewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Podiatrists frequently diagnose and treat heel pain. Typically, heel pain can be attributed to two main causes. The first is overuse. If you regularly put excess pressure and strain on your heels from prolonged standing, walking long distances, running, playing sports, or wearing ill-fitted shoes, you may be more likely to experience heel pain. The second potential cause is a biomechanical problem, or a problem with the structure or function of your feet. The most common biomechanical issue is an overpronated gait, a walking pattern in which the feet turn too far inwards with each step. This is frequently seen in patients with flat feet and can contribute to plantar fasciitis and other conditions that cause heel pain. Sometimes, a combination of both overuse and an underlying biomechanical problem are to blame for heel pain. If you are experiencing heel pain, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist near you.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, 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.
Causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.
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.