There are multiple varieties of arthritis, and a challenge many of them share in common is foot pain. Arthritic foot care is important to finding relief from arthritis, a condition that has no cure. Luckily, help from a podiatrist, lifestyle modifications, and physical therapy can all contribute to happier feet. If you have foot pain, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist who can provide personalized guidance based on your condition. They may recommend suitable footwear with good arch support and cushioning to reduce pressure on the affected joints. Podiatrists may also recommend regular stretching exercises, such as gentle calf stretches and toe exercises, which can help maintain flexibility and alleviate stiffness in the feet. Lifestyle modifications, such as losing weight and switching to lower-impact exercise, can also be important to arthritic foot care.  Over-the-counter or prescribed medications can be part of the treatment plan, and in some cases, your podiatrist may suggest custom orthotic inserts to provide additional support to your feet. If you are experiencing foot pain from arthritis, it is suggested that you make regular appointments with a podiatrist for ongoing care. 

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor 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 office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Swollen feet, a common occurrence, can be attributed to various factors that impact the delicate balance of fluid regulation in the body. One primary cause is fluid retention, often linked to prolonged periods of standing or sitting, particularly in hot weather. The force of gravity hinders efficient circulation, leading to fluid pooling in the lower extremities. Additionally, dietary choices high in sodium can contribute to water retention, exacerbating swelling. Injuries or trauma, such as sprains or fractures, may trigger localized swelling as the body's natural response to inflammation. Conditions like venous insufficiency or deep vein thrombosis disrupt blood flow, promoting fluid accumulation. Pregnancy and hormonal fluctuations can also lead to swelling in the feet. If your feet are swollen, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate relief methods.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A broken toe, though seemingly minor, can yield noticeable symptoms and potential long-term complications. Immediate signs include pain, swelling, and bruising around the affected toe. Limited mobility and difficulty bearing weight are common, making daily activities challenging. If left untreated, a broken toe may lead to complications, such as deformities where the toe heals in a misaligned position. Chronic pain can persist, hindering mobility. In some cases, arthritis may develop, accelerating joint degeneration over time. Nerve damage is another potential consequence, causing tingling or numbness. Seeking prompt medical attention, including having X-rays taken for an accurate diagnosis, is vital to ensure proper realignment and minimize the risk of enduring complications. If you have endured a broken toe, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition and guide you toward avoiding long-term complications.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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

A foot stress fracture, a microscopic crack in a bone, can bring discomfort and disruption to one's daily activities. Typically caused by repetitive stress and overuse, these fractures often occur in weight-bearing bones, such as the metatarsals. These bones often endure more force than they can handle, leading to tiny cracks that, when compounded over time, manifest as stress fractures. Athletes engaging in high-impact activities, dancers, and military personnel are particularly susceptible due to the repetitive nature of their routines. Factors like sudden increases in activity intensity, improper footwear, or inadequate recovery periods can elevate the risk. Early recognition of symptoms such as localized pain, swelling, and tenderness is essential for timely intervention. Adopting preventive measures, such as a gradual increase in activity levels, and incorporating rest into routines can significantly decrease the risk of foot stress fractures. If you have developed a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer the treatment method that is right for you.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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