3D Bunion Correction - Lapiplasty - Webinar date is the 13th
Tuesday, 26 December 2023 00:00

Causes and Treatment of Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, affects up to 14 percent of the population, with a higher incidence in toenails. Symptoms include discoloration, thickening, brittleness, and nail distortion. Advanced cases of toenail fungus may involve nail detachment, causing pain and potential infections. Fungal nail infections result from exposure to environmental fungi, exploiting small cracks in nails or surrounding skin. Risk factors include nail injuries, foot deformities, and trauma, creating entry points for fungi. Diabetes increases susceptibility due to compromised circulation and weakened immunity. Cancer or conditions suppressing the immune system elevate vulnerability. Poor leg circulation, such as venous insufficiency, or narrowed arteries, signaling peripheral artery disease, can contribute to the susceptibility for fungal nail infections. Those with a history of fungal skin infections are also more prone, especially anyone with a weakened immune system. Secondary bacterial infections are common in people with diabetes, amplifying health risks. Understanding toenail fungus causes and symptoms is essential for early detection. If you believe you have developed a toenail fungus infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who has advanced measures that can help rid you of this stubborn condition.

For more information about treatment, 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.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Toenail Fungus

Psoriasis is a visible autoimmune disease characterized by red patches of skin with silvery scales. It results from an overactive immune system, attacking healthy tissue and causing excess skin cell production. However, this immune response can also trigger inflammation in joints. Approximately one-third of psoriasis patients develop psoriatic arthritis, or PsA, a chronic inflammatory joint disease. Often, psoriasis precedes PsA, but joint issues can emerge before skin symptoms, or may be so mild that patients do not connect them with psoriasis. Psoriatic arthritis can affect any joint, including the ankles and tendons around them. Symptoms include pain, tenderness, swelling, and warmth in the joints. Foot-related problems from PsA can include swelling of entire toes, heel pain from Achilles' tendon inflammation, and sole pain due to plantar fascia inflammation. Additionally, it can cause nail changes such as lifting, pitting, discoloration, or thickening. Managing PsA involves symptom control and joint protection. If you have psoriatic arthritis and it is impacting the comfort of your feet or ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a correct diagnosis and treatment options.

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 joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

  • Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
  • Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
  • Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about How to Care for Your Arthritic Foot
Wednesday, 13 December 2023 00:00

We Can Treat Your Foot or Ankle Pain

Foot or ankle pain can negatively affect your day-to-day life and can occur due to several different conditions. Pain can also be an indicator of a more serious underlying condition, which is why you should seek professional help as soon as you notice any abnormalities in your feet.

Foot stress fractures, tiny cracks in the bones, can emerge from a myriad of factors that subject the feet to repetitive stress and strain. One primary cause is overuse, where excessive or sudden increases in physical activity like running or prolonged standing surpass the bones' capacity for repair. Wearing inadequate footwear or worn-out shoes lacking proper support amplifies the risk, as they fail to absorb shock adequately. Biomechanical factors, like abnormal foot structure or gait patterns, contribute to uneven weight distribution, placing specific areas under heightened stress. Insufficient conditioning and muscle fatigue diminish the ability of muscles to absorb impact, transferring excess force to the bones. Additionally, nutritional deficiencies, particularly in calcium and vitamin D, compromise bone strength, elevating the susceptibility to stress fractures. By wearing proper footwear, adopting a gradual training progression, and supplying nutritional support, individuals can fortify their foot health and reduce the likelihood of encountering the discomfort associated with stress fractures. If you have developed a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you the treatment option that is right for you.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

  • Runners                                  
  • People affected with Osteoporosis
  • Tennis or basketball players
  • Gymnasts
  • High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate 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 and ankle needs.

Read more about Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
Tuesday, 05 December 2023 00:00

Podiatric Evaluation of Feet for Exercise

Podiatrists conduct thorough evaluations of feet to optimize exercise outcomes and prevent injuries. This process begins with a detailed assessment of the foot's structure, which includes examining the arch, toe alignment, and overall foot shape. This type of doctor pays close attention to any abnormalities or conditions like flat feet, high arches, or bunions that may impact exercise performance or lead to injury. Gait analysis is another critical aspect, where the podiatrist observes how a person walks and runs. This analysis helps identify any irregularities in foot movement that could cause problems during physical activities. A key part of the evaluation is understanding the individual's exercise routine, including the type of activities they engage in, and the frequency and intensity of these activities. This information, combined with the physical examination, enables the podiatrist to make personalized recommendations. These may include specific types of footwear, custom orthotics, or exercises to strengthen the foot and ankle. If you are exercising or embarking on a new exercise program, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for advice to enhance your comfort, improve performance, and reduce the risk of foot-related injuries during exercise.

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.

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.

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Neuropathy, a condition affecting the peripheral nerves, can significantly impact the feet, leading to a range of distressing symptoms. This disorder arises when nerve damage disrupts the communication between the feet and the peripheral nervous system. The definition of neuropathy in the feet encompasses sensations of tingling, numbness, and pain, often described as a burning or electric shock-like discomfort. Causes of neuropathy are diverse, including diabetes, infections, traumatic injuries, and exposure to toxins. Prolonged high blood sugar levels, common in diabetes, can harm nerves over time, contributing to neuropathic symptoms. Additionally, certain medications and hereditary factors may play a role. Understanding the nuanced definition and causes of neuropathy empowers individuals to recognize symptoms early, and to seek medical attention from a podiatrist. If you have symptoms of neuropathy in the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with this type of doctor who can effectively treat this condition.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, 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 for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

  • Numbness
  • Sensation loss
  • Prickling and tingling sensations
  • Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
  • Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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.

Read more about Neuropathy
Wednesday, 22 November 2023 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, 21 November 2023 00:00

Less Invasive Bunion Surgery

Foot surgery is typically advised when less invasive treatments fail, or if the foot condition's long-term prognosis is poor. Patients often worry about perceived risks such as infection, swelling, and pain, as well as extended recovery periods impacting work and activities. However, these concerns are mainly linked to outdated surgical methods. Modern foot surgery, particularly minimally invasive techniques, uses smaller incisions and less surgical time, reducing postoperative risks and shortening recovery. For instance, bunion surgery has evolved from traditional open methods requiring larger incisions to keyhole surgeries with minimal incisions. This approach lessens infection risks, pain, and speeds up recovery. If you have a bunion or another foot condition that is not improving, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to see if you can benefit from minimally invasive foot surgery.

If you are suffering from bunions, 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.

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 offices located in Fair Lawn, Riverdale, and Englewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Bunions
Tuesday, 14 November 2023 00:00

Defining and Diagnosing Foot Fractures

A foot fracture, also known as a broken foot, refers to the break or crack in one or more of the bones within the foot. These fractures can result from various incidents, such as traumatic injuries, repetitive stress, or weakened bone structure. Diagnosing a foot fracture often involves a combination of physical examination and diagnostic imaging. The podiatrist will assess the injured area, looking for signs like pain, tenderness, swelling, deformity, and impaired range of motion. X-rays are the most common imaging tool used to confirm the diagnosis, allowing podiatrists to determine the type and location of the fracture accurately. Understanding the definition and diagnosis of a foot fracture is crucial for proper treatment and recovery. Whether it is a stress fracture from overuse or a traumatic injury, early diagnosis and appropriate management are essential for optimal healing and the restoration of normal foot function. If you have broken your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide one of several treatment options that are right for you.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, 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 Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

  • Bruising
  • Pain
  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Blue in color
  • Numbness
  • Cold
  • Misshapen
  • Cuts
  • Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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.

Read more about Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for a Broken Foot
Tuesday, 07 November 2023 00:00

Common Foot Problems

Our feet bear the weight of our bodies and help us to move about. However, they are also susceptible to a range of common problems that can be quite uncomfortable. One prevalent issue is bunions, which occur when the big toe joint becomes misaligned and causes a painful bump. Another common ailment is plantar fasciitis, characterized by sharp heel pain due to inflammation of the tissue that supports the arch of the foot. Ingrown toenails can be particularly bothersome, causing pain and potential infection. Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that leads to itching and peeling skin on the feet. Corns and calluses are also frequent, resulting from friction and pressure on the skin. To keep your feet in top shape, it is essential to be mindful of these common problems. If you have any type of foot pain, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer the correct treatment for your problem.

 

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:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

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.

Read more about Foot Pain
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