Maintain a Healthy Diet to Control Gout Symptoms
Also known as “the disease of kings,” gout is a “centuries-old disease that was frequently associated with overindulgences only a king could afford: food and wine.” Gout is characterized as the buildup of uric acid in the body, which leads to the forming of crystal deposits in the body’s joints, causing inflammation and pain. Research conducted and published by the Annals of Rheumatic Diseases suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may help prevent gout symptoms, although further information about the study is still required.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
The Different Causes behind Heel Pain
Visiting your podiatrist is especially important if you’ve experienced foot pain that may be chronic. “According to a 2014 survey from the American Podiatric Medical Association, 77 percent of U.S. adults over age 18 have experienced foot pain.” Heel pain, in particular, can be caused by many different reasons, including plantar fasciitis, athletic injury, or achilles tendinopathy. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot becomes inflamed, whereas achilles tendinopathy occurs when the Achilles tendon becomes overworked and stressed.
Anyone can wind up suffering from heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Causes of Heel Pain
● Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
● Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
● Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes
- Wearing non-supportive shoes
- Weight change
- Excessive running
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a thing of the past.
With the advancements in technology and greater knowledge of how muscles and joints work, physical therapists can turn things around dramatically.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Going Barefoot Offers Both Pros and Cons
Barefoot running has long been debated to be either beneficial or detrimental to our feet, with arguments that barefoot running is natural, or that it can lead to extensive injury because our feet are conditioned to wear cushioned shoes. Research from Harvard anthropologist Daniel Lieberman and his fellow researchers suggested that minimalist running helped “deliver greater running economy and [led to] fewer injuries.” Barefoot running can offer an alternative lifestyle change for those interested in starting. When proper procedures are followed, the risk of injuries occurring from barefoot running decreases.
Barefoot running has its own share of benefits and disadvantages. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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 feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Understanding Osteoarthritis as a Form of Arthritis
Osteoarthritis, a debilitating disease that affects your body’s tissue and cartilage, can affect people of all ages. Although osteoarthritis symptoms usually flare up around the age of 65, it can also affect younger individuals. Many different factors can contribute to osteoarthritis, including obesity, genes, and injuries, which can promote the early onset of symptoms. Osteoarthritis is a form of arthritis, which affects “1 in 5 adults in the United States,” which amounts to “at least 27 million Americans.”
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment,contact one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves inflammation of different joints in your body, such as in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. On top of 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 to 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 technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Cryotherapy Ideal for Soothing Inflammation of the Feet
Cryotherapy is one potential treatment option for soothing the feet, especially if you have arthritis. First developed by the Japanese during the 1970s, cryotherapy is a “non-invasive, whole-body hyper-cooling treatment” that is often used for professional athletes. The method is said to reduce inflammation in the body through the rapid cooling of your body in -160 to -260 Fahrenheit temperatures.
Foot therapy is necessary for those recovering from both foot deformities and foot injuries. If you have concerns regarding therapy, contact one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Most common injuries
People who are constantly on their feet are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is important to take part in physical therapy in order to get back on the right track quickly.
What to do when injured
Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. This is important for those wanting to get back into the game quickly. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.
During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. These are some steps physical therapy often involves:
- Basic stretching & twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.
- Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.
- Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Diabetic Foot Ulcers A Serious Concern for Diabetics
Diabetic foot ulcers are known as injuries on the feet that are suggested to be experienced by about “15 percent of diabetics,” and can usually start out small as blisters, calluses, or small cuts. Diabetic ulcers that are not treated can progress into a more serious issue, become infected, and can be extremely harmful for the diabetic person. Infections caused by diabetic ulcers can spread throughout the body and be difficult to treat at later stages. Diabetes can impair the blood cells and the immunity system.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. 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
- Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
- Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.
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 office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Take Care of Your Children’s Feet Early on to Prevent Onset of Problems
Children’s feet and ankles are both especially prone to injury since they are not wholly developed yet. If your child participates often in sports, make sure to check them for bodily injuries. Softer surface sports can “create less trauma to the joints, whereas the harder surfaces can take their toll.” Small symptoms can progress into larger problems later on as your child grows older. Children can suffer from inflammation in the heel growth plate, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and stress fractures. Repeated stress and strain on your children’s bodies can lead to these issues, so make sure to have them checked regularly.
Making sure that your children maintain foot health is very important as they grow up. If you have any questions contact one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. 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.
- Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet
- Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable
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’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet
- Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus
- Be watchful of any pain or injury
- Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible
- Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Causes of Poor Circulation in the Body
There are many different symptoms and causes behind poor circulation, all of which can indicate serious problems in the body. Symptoms can commonly include feelings of numbness, cramps, the appearance of varicose veins, feelings of pins and needles, and feelings of heaviness on your limbs. Vascular disease is also another name for poor circulation in the body. Treating your poor blood circulation involves exercising more often, eating a healthy diet, and stopping smoking.
Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention.To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Poor Circulation in the Feet
Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs 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. It usually restricts 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 from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:
-muscle pain -numbness in legs
-cramps -skin discoloration
-weakness -slower nail & hair growth
-stiffness -erectile dysfunction
Those who are over 50-years-old, have diabetes and/or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD, and it is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce the risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercising and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.
Consult a podiatrist or doctor to help determine a regime that suits you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Marc Gasol Sustains Foot Injury Playing Against Portland Trail Blazers
Marc Gasol of the Memphis Grizzlies will be out on recovery for an indefinite amount of time after sustaining a right foot injury in the game against the Portland Trail Blazers. Gasol had to leave the game during the first quarter. Head coach Dave Joerger said that “Marc is a guy who lays it out there for his teammates and the fans. We’re going to fight, scratch and claw.” Gasol’s status was unknown at the time.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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 (foot)
- 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 office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Bone Broth Suggested to Help Ease Arthritis Symptoms
Bone broth has been the new health fad in preventing diseases such as arthritis. While people have been using bone broth to ease their pains for a very long time, there is not a lot of research to back up its helpful claims. Elisabetta Politi, dietician and director of the Diet and Fitness Center at Duke University, also questions these claims. She states, “the cooking method will draw out cartilage-building substances like glucosamin and condroitin. Many people take them in pill form to combat arthritis, but clinical trials haven’t shown they’re effective.”
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves inflammation of different joints in your body, such as in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. On top of 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 to 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 technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
More...
Tom Brady Spotted with Recent Sprained Ankle Injury
Jeremy Lin of the Charlotte Hornets had to be removed from a game against the Jazz due to a sprained ankle. After scoring four points within two rebounds and an assist, Lin sustained his injury. Lin’s current condition is not known since further evaluation of the injury is still necessary. Players Brian Roberts and Aaron Harrison are next in line to sub in Lin’s place.
Ankle sprains are common, but need immediate attention. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What are the Symptoms?
- Mild to moderate bruising
- Limited mobility
- Swelling
- Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)
Preventing a Sprain
- Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
- Stretching before exercises and sports
- Knowing your limits can aid in prevention
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Who Are Geriatricians and Why Are They Important?
Geriatricians are podiatrists who specialize in treating the elderly, but the profession is considered an uncommon field. According to nytimes.com, “geriatrics is one of the few medical specialties in the United States that is contracting even as the need increases,” indicating that more older adults are in need of having their feet checked and treated. Geriatricians are important because they are “certified in internal or family medicine” and they have “completed additional training in the care of older adults.” Geriatricians are able to treat older adults, addressing problems that may extend beyond ordinary foot care.
If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and even rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.
It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseases can affect your overall health and having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.
Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or anything else that may seem irregular.
Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. So wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.
Lastly, good foot health means you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health can also lead to good circulation which is paramount to overall health.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Jockey Stephen Brown Sustains Broken Ankle
Stephen Brown Junior, jockey apprentice, will not be on the saddle for a short period of time as his broken ankle heals. The injury was sustained during a fall at a race on King Island. As the horse and his jockey were ready to head towards the barriers, the bucking horse caused the 16-year-old to land awkwardly, rolling his foot inward. “I was just starting to kick things off a little bit and had ridden a couple of winners in the past few weeks so it’s disappointing, but these things happen,” the young jockey stated.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. 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
- Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
- Swelling around the area
- Bruising of the area
- Area appears to be deformed
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 office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Combating Athlete’s Foot
For those who may think they have Athlete’s foot, make sure to see your podiatrist first. If you want to try self-diagnosing or treating your feet first to see what condition you may have, make sure to apply your medication treatment on a consistent basis, even after the condition has healed. The root of Athlete’s foot can exist in the layers underneath the skin as well. Remember to also take proper care of your feet by washing and drying them daily, and using powder to absorb moisture. Another tip is to wear acrylic socks rather than cotton socks.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
- Hydrate your feet by using lotion
- Exfoliate
- Buff off nails
- Use of anti-fungal products
- Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of athlete’s foot, as well as helping you figure out which treatment options are best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
