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Olympic Skier Lindsey Vonn broke her ankle while training in New Zealand. Since then, Vonn has since traveled back to the United States to further evaluate the injury. The gold medalist was quick to turn to social media to display her injury, “Unfortunately I crashed today and have a small fracture in my ankle,. Headed home now but will keep u posted,” she stated adding, “See ya later New Zealand!” Last season Vonn suffered an injury that forced her to miss the 2014 Olympics in Sochi. So far it is still early enough that she can recover by the 2018 Olympics in South Korea.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Dr. Richard T. Braver DPM, FACASand Dr. Phillip S. Messenger, DPM of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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
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.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Englewood, and Riverdale, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
This past July the Minneapolis metro area hosted the 2015 National Senior Games where nearly 12,000 seniors ages 50 and older completed in high activity events such as basketball, swimming, and volleyball. Despite many of these participants having previously suffered from foot and ankle injuries, making them even more susceptible to injury at this stage, the event was still a success. Health professionals do recommend, however, that seniors take extra precautions when participating in high impact activities such as tennis, golf, or running since these activities can have negative influences on the lower extremities.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. For more information, consult with one of our podiatrists from Active Foot & Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
The Elderly and their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet, and can hide many life threating medical conditions.
Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
Shoes that don’t fit properly
Pressure sores
Loss of circulation in legs & feet
Edema & swelling of feet and ankles
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Englewood, and Riverdale, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Nearly 15% of children appear to have flat feet, but as most of these children grow older arches will develop. Unless children are complaining of pain there is no need to interfere with the growing process; however, seeing a podiatrist concerning the arches will not cause any harm and may put a parent’s mind at ease. Additionally, parents can easily tell if their children do have foot problems by looking at the wear and tear patterns on their shoes. Bringing in old shoes to a doctor’s visit can help determine if your child has any potential foot issues. In most cases foot problems can be treated while a child is still young since the bones are still soft.
Keeping an eye on your child’s foot growth is one of the best ways to help keep their feet healthy. If you have any concerns contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet in childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care from birth to school-age.
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. Be sure the child wears comfortable and protective shoes so that they can grow into their feet properly.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet
Children of all ages are constantly developing and growing, and as a parent you want to make sure that nothing is hindering their maturation.
If you have any concerns feel free contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Englewood, and Riverdale, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Academy award nominated Hollywood Actor, Jake Gyllenhaal, is known for taking on intense roles where he needs to be extremely fit. Recently Gyllenhaal, the self-proclaimed exercise addict has taken up barefoot running and states that activity has done wonders to reduce the usual muscles soreness he feels after runs with shoes. Although the Southpaw actor particularly enjoys barefoot running, he states, “I’ve had to teach myself how to slow down a bit, because I get so into it, it becomes a real addiction.”
Barefoot running has its own share of benefits and disadvantages. To learn more about this trend, consider speaking to one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will explain the facts of barefoot running and help you decide if it’s a practice you’d like to take up.
Barefoot Running
The Impact of Barefoot Running
-Running without shoes changes the motion of your running, as most running is done by landing on the heel of the feet.
-Running barefoot requires a different way of running; the landing is done on the front part of the feet.
The Advantages of Barefoot Running
-When running and landing on the front feet, the impact on the feet and ankle is reduced, this can reduce stress injuries.
-It strengthens muscles in the feet and ankles and the lower legs.
-Balance of the body is improved and there is a greater sensory input from the feet to the rest of the body.
The Drawbacks of Barefoot Running
-No protection while running, makes it likely that runners will land on sharp objects and scrapes, bruises and cuts on the feet will result.
-Blisters may form.
-Possibility of plantar fascia problems.
-Risk of getting Achilles tendonitis.
So what can runners do to make barefoot running safe? It’s best to make a slow transition from running shoes to barefoot running. Once the feet begin to adjust, try walking, then jogging and gradually increasing the distance. Minimalist running shoes may also be an option.
If you have any questions, please contact our offices located in Fairlawn, Riverdale, and Englewood, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers has broken the bone in his right foot and will have surgery to repair the break making this the second foot injury in less than a year for the 21-year old. Embiid originally broke his foot in June of last year, two months before he signed his rookie contract. Although he was the number three pick during the 2014 NBA draft, the center has missed most of his rookie season and will now most likely miss this upcoming season due to the surgery.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to fix a foot ailment. If you have any concerns about your foot and ankle needs contact Dr. Richard T. Braver DPM, FACAS and Dr. Philip S. Messenger, DPM of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to help with the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary are:
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:
Benefits of Surgery
Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.
Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Englewood, Fair Lawn, and Riverdale, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Xavier Johnson, senior point guard at University of Colorado recently had surgery to repair a tear in his Achilles tendon. There is no telling if the injury will heal in time for the start of the season on November 13, but the team is still supporting him. Coach Tad Boyle stated, “[We are] looking forward to helping Xavier through this process and getting him back healthy, and help this program win more games.”
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can cause severe difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What are the symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
- Inflammation
- Dull to Severe Pain
- Increased blood flow to the tendon
- Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
- Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
- Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Englewood, and Riverdale, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
During the summer months, when the weather is warmer, diabetics face the issues of staying hydrated, maintaining blood sugar levels, and keeping feet healthy with proper foot care. Kidneys absorb less sugar when blood sugar levels rise, causing a faster loss in fluid. Diabetics need to maintain hydration since it dehydration can lead to a build-up of acid in the blood, a life-threatening condition. Additionally, feet need to be kept clean and dry no matter what shoe is worn. Socks need to be kept dry since sweaty socks can lead to ulcers and in some cases, severe infections.
Neuropathy is a common and pain condition for diabetic patients. If you have any concerns about your diabetic feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels because blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Englewood, and North Riverdale, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
In the past decade, the number of people diagnosed with Morton’s neuroma has doubled and many are placing the blame on high heels. Accordingly, women are nearly eight to ten times more likely to have Morton’s neuroma, especially if wearing high heels above two inches. High heels have become increasingly problematic because the shoe pushes the toe bones against the nerves where neuromas are most likely to develop.
High heel have a history for causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because they are associated with femininity. Despite their appeal, they can cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
What parts my body will be affected by high heels?
What kinds of foot problems can develop from wearing high heels?
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; you can buy either full inserts or metatarsal pads.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Englewood, and Riverdale, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Barbie has recently reintroduced their doll brand with some of the dolls bearing flat feet. The changes occurred after a few online sources lashed out at the brand for setting impossible body standards for young children. CNN stated about the new dolls, “The latest line of diverse Barbies may find fans among a growing number of parents who want dolls to reflect the broad ethnic diversity of women and a wide range of possibilities for girls futures.”
Flat feet can be problematic for some individuals. You have any concerns about flat feet; speak to one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will attend to all of your podiatric needs.
What are Flat Feet?
Flat feet are a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. Standing about 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arch never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – if you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms:
Pain around the heel or arch area
Trouble standing on the tip toe.
Swelling around the inside of the ankle.
Flat look to one or both feet.
Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment:
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
For more information about Flat Feet, follow the link below.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fairlawn, Englewood, and Riverdale, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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