Tuesday, 10 October 2023 00:00
Foot Care for Pregnant Women
The natural weight that pregnant women gain causes their center of gravity to be completely altered. This causes them to have a new weight-bearing stance which adds pressure to the knees and feet. As a result, pregnant women often experience severe foot pain. The two most common foot issues experienced by women in their pregnancies are edema and over-pronation. It is important for all pregnant women to learn more about how to take care of their feet so they are more comfortable during their pregnancy.
Over-pronation, which is commonly referred to as flat feet, is caused when a person’s arch flattens out upon weight bearing. This causes the person’s feet to roll inward while walking. Pregnant women often experience this due to the sudden weight they gain.
Edema, also referred as swelling in the feet, typically occurs in the later part of the pregnancy. It is the result of the extra blood accumulated in the pregnant woman’s body. The enlarged uterus puts more pressure on the blood vessels in the pelvis which causes leg circulation to slow down. This causes blood to pool in the lower extremities.
Fortunately, there are ways to treat both edema and over-pronation. Edema can be treated by elevating the foot as often as possible. Wearing proper fitting footwear will also be helpful for those with edema. A treatment method for over-pronation could be orthotics. Orthotic inserts should be designed with appropriate arch support and medial rear foot for your foot.
It is best for pregnant women to buy new shoes during the day, because this is the time where swelling is at its peak. Pregnant women also shouldn’t rush when buying shoes. It is always advised that you make sure your shoes fit properly but this is especially important during pregnancy.
If you are a pregnant woman, you should consult with a podiatrist in order to make sure your feet are healthy throughout the entirety of your pregnancy.
Published in Featured
Tagged under
Tuesday, 03 October 2023 00:00
Common Foot and Ankle Injuries in Dancers
Dancing is a beautiful art form that demands precision and grace. However, it also places a significant amount of stress on the feet and ankles, making dancers susceptible to a wide range of injuries. Ankle sprains often occur when dancers land after jumps or quick turns. Proper warm-up and ankle-strengthening exercises can reduce the risk. Stress fractures can develop from the repetitive impact of dancing, causing tiny cracks in bones. Adequate rest and proper nutrition are essential for healing. Achilles tendinitis may result from overuse of the Achilles tendon, leading to inflammation and pain. Stretching and calf strengthening exercises can help to prevent this. Plantar fasciitis often occurs due to the strain on the arch of the foot. Wearing shoes with adequate arch support and incorporating stretching exercises can be effective preventive measures. Dancer’s fracture is the name given to the fracture of the 5th metatarsal, which is the bone connecting the pinky toe to the midfoot. This fracture can occur when the ankle is rolled while the dancer is on their toes, causing immediate pain and swelling in the foot. It is suggested that dancers have regular check-ups with a podiatrist to detect and address these and other foot or ankle injuries early.
Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, 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.
Common Injuries
The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:
- Achilles Tendonitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
- Broken Foot
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Stress Fractures
- Turf Toe
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.
Treatment
Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
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.
Published in Blog
Tagged under
Tuesday, 03 October 2023 00:00
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are common among athletes and those who exercise frequently. Most of these injuries are non-life-threatening and can heal in weeks with proper treatment and care. Serious injuries, however, require urgent medical treatment.
Common minor injuries include ankle sprains, ankle strains, Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and turf toe. An ankle sprain is when the ligaments in the ankle have either become stretched or torn. When the muscle or tendon is stretched or torn, it is an ankle strain. When the big toe is sprained, it is known as turf toe. Achilles tendonitis is the overuse and inflammation of the Achilles tendon. Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia and generally occurs from overuse in athletics. Stress fractures are also caused from overuse and are small cracks in the bone.
Achilles tendon ruptures are common, but more serious. This injury occurs when the Achilles tendon, the largest tendon in the body, ruptures. In most cases, this causes severe pain and difficulty walking; some who have experienced this injury have reported, however, no signs or symptoms. A laceration is a deep cut that can occur anywhere on the body. Lacerations on the foot are rarer, but can occur from things like metal cleats landing on the foot.
Treatment options cover a wide range of methods based upon the injury and its severity. Conditions like plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, Achilles tendonitis, turf toe and ankle sprains/ strains can heal on their own without immediate medical care, but seeing a podiatrist to monitor the injury is always recommended. Following the RICE (Rest, Icing, Compression, and Elevation) protocol is generally enough to treat minor injuries. This means resting the foot by either keeping pressure off the foot or not walking at all. Icing the injury will help reduce swelling and pain. Compressing the wound with a wrap will immobilize and help promote healing. Finally, keeping the wound elevated will also reduce swelling and also help the healing process.
It is important to note that even minor injuries can vary in severity, with grade one being a minor injury and grade three requiring urgent care by a podiatrist. Achilles tendon ruptures and lacerations on the foot generally require urgent medical care and treatment options that need a podiatrist. These could include imaging tests, stitches for cuts, rehabilitation, and casts or braces. Every case is different, however, so it is always recommended to see a podiatrist when pain in the foot does not disappear.
Published in Featured
Tagged under
Tuesday, 26 September 2023 00:00
Common Foot and Toe Injuries
The feet, ankles, and toes are intricate structures that bear the brunt of your daily activities. Unfortunately, injuries in these areas are not uncommon and can be quite painful. Ankle sprains often occur due to missteps or awkward landings, causing ligaments to stretch or tear. Stress fractures in the feet, often seen in runners, result from repetitive impact on the bones. Additionally, Achilles tendonitis can afflict the back of the ankle, causing pain and inflammation. Toes are not exempt, as stubbing or jamming them can lead to fractures or dislocations. Relief may come from getting adequate rest, and using compression and elevation may help to reduce existing swelling. For more severe injuries, seeking medical attention is essential for proper healing and to prevent long-term issues. Wearing proper footwear, performing warm up exercises, and being mindful of your surroundings can also reduce the risk of these injuries, allowing you to keep moving comfortably. If you have injured your foot, toe or ankle, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat these types of foot conditions.
Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, 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.
Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:
- Broken bones
- Muscle strains
- Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
- Stress fractures
Symptoms
Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:
- Bruising
- Inflammation/ Swelling
- Pain
Diagnosis
To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.
Treatment
Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.
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.
Published in Blog
Tagged under
Tuesday, 26 September 2023 00:00
Foot and Ankle Fractures
When the foot or ankle experiences trauma, a fracture may occur. Causes of foot and ankle fractures can vary; in some cases, an obvious impact to the foot or a fall can be behind a fracture. Alternatively, fractures can also occur because of increased stress on the bone over time. The location of the fracture can often give your podiatrist information on how the fracture occurred.
Pain, especially when bearing weight, is a telltale sign of a fracture. Limping due to this pain is a further sign of a foot or ankle fracture. Other symptoms include inflammation, bruising, deformity, and tenderness. A deformity may occur due to a shift in bone alignment or a joint dislocation near the fracture. While pain is a significant symptom of breakage, a patient who has nerve damage or who has diabetes may not feel this pain. In this instance, your podiatrist will look for additional signs to determine whether a fracture has occurred.
If you are experiencing severe pain, cannot walk without limping, have an open wound near the suspected break, or have numbness or tingling in the toes, you should see your podiatrist.
Published in Featured
Tagged under
Tuesday, 19 September 2023 00:00
All About MLS Laser Therapy
MLS laser therapy is an innovative method for treating pain. The concentration of lasers that are used, stimulate the body’s own healing process. The wavelengths may be able to replace surgery or medication, or they can help people recover quickly after surgery. This form of therapy has been known to help with arthritis, sprains, and inflammation. If you have Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, or another foot injury, MLS laser therapy could be a solution. For some patients, this therapy is the only treatment they use, claiming that a series of appointments keeps their pain manageable. For people with arthritis, this could help ease the long-term effects of the ailment. The lasers do not burn or hurt the skin, with most patients only feeling a slight warming sensation at the site of the treatment. If you have a foot or ankle condition that you believe may improve with MLS laser therapy, be sure to contact a podiatrist.
MLS Laser Therapy is a successful alternative for treating any pain you may be experiencing related to certain podiatric conditions. If you are interested in MLS Laser Therapy, 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.
MLS Laser Therapy
Multiwave Locked System (MLS) Laser Therapy is a patented, FDA-cleared technology that helps relieve pain and inflammation from a number of podiatric conditions, including:
- Heel Pain
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Sports Injuries
- Wounds
- Achilles Tendonitis
- Arthritis
- Neuropathy
- Neuromas
MLS Laser Therapy is an ideal alternative to surgery and prescription medication, as it has no negative side effects and encourages accelerated healing. Among its many clinical benefits, MLS Laser Therapy also:
- Reduces swelling due to bruising or inflammation
- Blocks pain
- Reduces formation of scar tissue
- Improves nerve function
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.
Published in Blog
Tagged under
Tuesday, 19 September 2023 00:00
MLS Laser Therapy
MLS Laser Therapy is an FDA-approved technology designed to treat various painful conditions. It is often sought out as a successful alternative to surgical treatment and prescription medication that may otherwise bring about negative side effects. During MLS Laser Therapy, light energy enters the damaged cells to stimulate intercellular activity, reducing pain in the affected area and accelerating the recovery process.
MLS Laser Therapy is used in podiatry to treat various conditions. These include heel pain, plantar fasciitis, sports injuries, wounds, Achilles tendonitis, arthritis, neuromas, neurological pain, musculoskeletal disorders, and sore muscles. Aside from the specific conditions MLS Laser Therapy treats, patients can also gain from the treatment’s general benefits. These benefits include a rapid relief of pain, the reduction of swelling caused by inflammation or bruising, faster healing, improved blood circulation, the reduction of scar tissue, and improved nerve function.
MLS Laser Therapy is a non-surgical treatment with no side effects. The treatment process is painless and typically takes a short amount of time to complete. Several treatments may be required depending on the specific condition.
Published in Featured
Tagged under
Tuesday, 12 September 2023 00:00
How to Find the Perfect Size Shoes When Shopping Online
When it comes to choosing the right shoe size while online shopping, there are guidelines to avoid sizing mishaps. It is wise to measure your foot each time you buy from a new brand. To measure your foot accurately, stand on a flat surface with your heels against a wall. Place a ruler on the floor beside the inside of your foot from heel to toe. Position an object with a flat edge at the tip of your longest toe. Measure the length in centimeters where the flat edge crosses the ruler. When using size conversion charts, centimeters are used, as these charts are metric-based. In general, if you have shopped for a particular brand before, order your normal shoe size unless you have a wider foot or wear a half size, in which case, you might have to go up a half size. Account for brand differences as different shoe brands may have slight variations in sizing. By following these steps, you can confidently choose the right shoe size when shopping online, avoiding the frustration of returns, and ensuring a comfortable fit for your footwear. If you have additional questions about how to find the right size shoes for your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss this further.
Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our doctors from Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Getting the Right Shoe Size
There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.
- When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
- Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
- Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
- Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
- If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes
As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.
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.
Published in Blog
Tagged under
Tuesday, 12 September 2023 00:00
Getting the Right Shoe Size: To Keep Your Feet Happy
People are constantly wearing improperly-fitting shoes. Though it isn’t hard, picking the right shoes does require keeping a few things in mind.
Shoe stores have rulers so you can get an exact measurement of your feet. Be sure to always measure your feet with your shoes on. Measuring just your foot will give you a shoe size that is 1-2 inches too small for picking the right size shoe.
To ensure that your toes won’t be cramped, make sure there is wiggle room. Approximately one inch should be between your toes and the tip of your shoe. It is easy to tell if your shoes are too tight, because you will start to experience pain, blisters, and swelling.
Additionally, do not always assume your shoe size will be the same at every store. Manufacturers sometimes run differently, and your size will vary from brand to brand. Make sure the stores you purchase from have return policies, in case there is a problem.
Rather than shoe shopping in the morning, it is advised to shop for shoes later in the day. Your feet will swell as the day passes. If shoes are purchased in the morning, they may not be as snug as they should be. Furthermore, not all two feet are the same size. Therefore, accommodations may be necessary.
An overall concern in buying shoes is making sure they are comfortable and supportive. There is no such thing as a shoe being ‘broken in’. If they are uncomfortable at the store, they likely will always be uncomfortable.
Since we do a lot of walking, it is important that we pick the right shoes. Our feet will benefit from this, and we will be happier and healthier because of it.
Published in Featured
Tagged under
Sunday, 10 September 2023 00:00
Gout Pain Can Be Managed
Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
Published in Blog
Tagged under
