Ankle stretches play a pivotal role in maintaining optimal foot and lower limb health, offering a multitude of benefits for individuals of all ages and activity levels. These stretches help improve ankle flexibility, range of motion, and proprioception, reducing the risk of injuries such as sprains and strains. Additionally, ankle stretches alleviate tightness in the calf muscles and Achilles tendon, promoting better posture and gait mechanics. Performing ankle stretches can also enhance balance and stability, vital for activities like walking, running, and sports participation. To perform a basic ankle stretch, sit on the floor with your legs extended, then loop a resistance band or towel around the ball of one foot and gently pull it toward you, feeling a stretch in the calf and ankle. Hold the stretch for 15 to 30 seconds, then switch sides. Another effective stretch involves standing with one foot behind the other, bending the back knee slightly to stretch the calf and ankle. By incorporating these stretches into a regular routine, individuals can reap the benefits of improved ankle flexibility and function. If you have foot pain that may be impacted from having stiff ankles, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our doctors from Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in South Amboy, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Circulation refers to the movement of blood throughout the body, delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues while removing waste products. Poor circulation in the feet can lead to various problems and is often caused by conditions such as peripheral artery disease, diabetes, obesity, and prolonged inactivity. Smoking and a sedentary lifestyle also contribute to reduced blood flow. Symptoms of poor circulation in the feet include numbness, tingling, cold feet, swelling, cramping, and skin discoloration. If left untreated, these issues can lead to more severe complications like ulcers, infections, and, in extreme cases, gangrene. Improving circulation involves lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Wearing compression stockings and elevating the feet can also help. If you have trouble with poor circulation in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for personalized advice and effective treatment options.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our doctors of Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

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 office located in South Amboy, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Swollen ankles can arise from various factors, ranging from genetics to underlying health conditions. It is important to delve deeper into the potential causes of swollen ankles, because they can signal serious underlying health issues. For instance, obesity, diabetes, infections, and venous insufficiency can lead to fluid retention in the ankles, which makes them become swollen. Other serious conditions that can result in swelling in the ankles include congestive heart failure, deep vein thrombosis, and liver or kidney problems. Pregnancy, medications, insect bites, and sprains can also cause the ankle to swell. Prolonged standing or consuming excess salt are other other factors. Depending on the underlying cause, interventions may include lifestyle modifications, medications, or targeted therapies. If you have noticed that your ankles are swelling abnormally, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

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 doctors from Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. 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.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in South Amboy, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Falls among adults can result from various factors, including vitamin deficiencies, balance issues, and vision problems. Deficiencies in vitamins such as D and B12 can weaken bones and impair nerve function, increasing the risk of falls. Similarly, balance disorders, often linked to aging or certain medical conditions, can disrupt equilibrium and stability while walking or standing. Vision impairment, whether due to age-related changes or untreated eye conditions, can also hinder depth perception and spatial awareness, heightening the likelihood of tripping or stumbling. To mitigate these risks, individuals can adopt fall prevention measures such as regular exercise to improve strength and balance, ensuring adequate intake of essential vitamins through a balanced diet and supplements, and scheduling routine eye exams to address vision issues promptly. Additionally, removing tripping hazards at home, installing handrails and grab bars, and using proper footwear with good traction can further reduce the likelihood of falls and promote safety and independence. Falling can seriously impact the feet, and cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have endured a foot injury from falling, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can treat foot pain, and educate you about effective fall prevention methods.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our doctors from Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in South Amboy, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel spurs, bony protrusions that develop on the underside of the heel bone, can cause considerable pain and discomfort, making everyday activities such as walking or standing challenging. These spurs form in response to repeated strain or stress on the foot's ligaments and muscles, typically as a result of biomechanical issues or excessive pressure on the heel. Common contributing factors include wearing ill-fitting shoes, overuse during physical activities such as running or jumping, obesity, or having a flat or high arch. Additionally, age-related changes in foot structure and chronic conditions like plantar fasciitis or arthritis can increase the likelihood of heel spur development. While heel spurs may not always cause symptoms, they can exacerbate pain and inflammation in surrounding tissues, leading to discomfort and reduced mobility. A heel spur is treated by a podiatrist. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you consult this type of doctor who can accurately diagnose and treat heel spurs.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our doctors from Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in South Amboy, NJ . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.