Probiotics Can Help Your Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms
Taking probiotics may help with treating joint pain and joint disability, or rheumatoid arthritis. Recent research from the Arthritis Foundation suggests that the good bacteria in probiotics help reduce inflammation and joint pain. Probiotics aid in digestion and help break down and filter the toxins in the body, preventing the spread of inflammation. The healthy bacteria found in probiotics, Lactobacillus casei, is effective in reducing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms in patients, as suggested by the National center for Biotechnological Information.
Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.
Symptoms
- Swelling & pain in the feet
- Stiffness in the feet
- Pain on the ball or sole of feet
- Joint shift and deformation
Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.
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.
Feet Play an Important Role in Keeping the Body Healthy
When it comes to keeping your body in shape, it is important to keep your feet in healthy and safe conditions to avoid any potential injuries. When starting a new workout, start gradually to avoid strains or stress fractures. Wearing the correct fitting shoes and socks with support can help reduce heel pain and avoid blisters. Using the proper technique during your workout is vital in preventing injury. Always remember to wear shoes in public places and to wear flip-flops in public showers or near public swimming pools to avoid foot fungus or other infectious diseases.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Exercise for Your Feet
Exercise for your feet can help you to gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important and often we forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate not to have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure its good health in the long run.
Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rise, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, also flexing the toes and involving the shins may help too. It is best to speak with your doctor regarding how to do these fitness steps and how often is right for you. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different and it varies from individual to individual to determine what should be done for you to maintain strength in your feet.
Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.
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.
Chris Clarke of Virginia Tech to Have Surgery
Virginia Tech’s Chris Clarke will be undergoing surgery for his foot injury, which occurred during Christmas break of last year. Clarke sustained a fracture while working out and he now has to wear a walking boot for recovery. He was examined by the team’s orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Tony McPherron, and after a diagnosis and x-rays, surgery was found to be the best option for Clarke’s injury. Following the surgery, Clarke’s status for the team will be unknown.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to fix a foot ailment. For professional help, see one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will ensure that your feet receive the care that they need.
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:
- Removing foot deformities like bone spurs and bunions
- Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
- Cosmetic reconstruction
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:
- Bunionectomy for painful bunions
- Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
- Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage
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 feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Seattle Seahawks Rookie Thomas Rawls Suffers Broken Ankle
Seattle Seahawks rookie Thomas Rawls will be missing the rest of the season due to a broken ankle injury. Rawls suffered the injury and tore his ligaments during the game against the Ravens at Baltimore after being piled by a group of opposing team members. Rawls’s ankle bent under the pressure of the pile, and he had to receive medical attention following the event. Unfortunately, Rawls will not be able to continue on with this season, but it is unclear about other seasons. The status of his injury is currently unknown, and it is unsure if Rawls will need surgery.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. For professional help, see one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will ensure that your feet receive the care that they need.
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 feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Facts About Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease caused by the continual thinning of cartilage, and once the damage is caused, it becomes permanent. Osteoarthritis is a debilitating issue that affects about 1 in 5 adults who are 45 years or older. It’s important for patients to treat symptoms of osteoarthritis before the condition progresses. Treatment options involve physiotherapy to strengthen the muscles, surgery to replace joints, and wearing proper footwear to help alleviate pain. It’s important for patients to see their podiatrists as soon as they think something is wrong, so that they can receive proper treatment and delay the progression of symptoms.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. For professional help, see one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will ensure that your feet receive the care that they need.
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 feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Facts About Flat Feet
Flat feet refers to a condition in which the arches of the feet have collapsed, causing nearly the entire sole of the foot to come into contact with the floor. A suspected 30 percent of the population has an arch that fails to fully develop in either or both feet. To manage flat feet, a podiatrist may prescribe shoe inserts or custom orthotics to support the fallen arch and ease any pain felt. In other cases, physical therapy may be suggested.
Most arches will develop in children after a certain age. For professional help, see one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will ensure that your feet receive the care that they need.
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.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Everyday Foot Care
Taking care of your feet is often a practice that many people overlook. However, your feet are the parts of your body that absorb the impact of your body with all physical activity. Some simple things to consider in an everyday routine of taking care of your feet are: wearing the right shoes, walking barefoot, washing and moisturizing your feet, and wearing socks to mitigate sweating and friction when wearing shoes. Find the right shoes that are comfortable and accommodate the size of your feet. Wash your feet often to prevent the spread of bacteria and moisturize dry skin.
Every day foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. For professional help, see one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will ensure that your feet receive the care that they need.
Every Day Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. After all, without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks. It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before, for example.
For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops.
Also, wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Club Sevilla’s Mark Andreolli Sustains Achilles Tendon Injury
Italian center-back Mark Andreolli will be missing the rest of the season, club Sevilla has confirmed, following a foot injury. Andreolli sustained a Achilles tendon injury in the Champions League game against Real Sociedad during the first half. In response to the injury, Club Sevilla announced that Andreolli will be having surgery, which will put him on rest for 6 to 8 months.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. For more information contact one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Shoe Business customizes Footwear for Specific Needs
Melissa Wescott has a shoe size that’s four sizes larger than the average size of 9. She opened her business, Big On Shoes, to help create and customize footwear for clientele specifically like her who have specific shoe needs. Look for a local organization that can provide the right shoe size for you, especially if you find that many popular outlets do not offer your ideal shape.
Finding a proper fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information contact one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Proper Shoe Fitting
A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in properly fitting shoes:
- Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
- Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
- Even though they may look fashionable, improperly fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
- Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity
Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, keeping properly fit shoes is vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
The Effects of Bunions on Posture
A business in Minden, Nevada, has created new bunion treatment products that have been allegedly reported to help address a variety of problems connected to feet, such as back pain. Back pain results as an effect of bad posture, and bunions are one ailment that can contribute to poor posture. Bunions spread the feet and arch out, which can ultimately lead to back pain.
Bunion surgery usually occurs after non-surgical methods have proved to be ineffective. For professional help, see one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will ensure that your feet receive the care that they need.
What is a Bunion?
A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs by the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.
Why do Bunions Form?
- Genetics – susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
- Stress on the feet – poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can cause bunions to form
How are Bunions Diagnosed?
Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.
How are Bunions Treated?
- Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
- Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
- Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
- Orthotics or foot inserts
- Surgery
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
More...
The Causes and Prevention of Blister
Blisters on the feet are often caused by friction between skin and the material of the shoe. To prevent this, ensure that shoes have a proper fit with a wide enough toe box. Moisture reducing socks can keep your feet dry and reduce friction. Sticking a layer of tape over any friction susceptible areas are also a sure way to reduce any blisters.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. For professional help, see one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will ensure that your feet receive the care that they need.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.
What are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
How do Blisters Form?
Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.
Prevention & Treatment
It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a doctor.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Brain Activity Sheds Light on Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment
Researchers from McGill University of Montreal found brain activity that can assist in providing treatment for diabetic patients suffering from peripheral neuropathy. Professor Seguela of the neurology and neurosurgery department discovered this by studying the HCN, hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated, channels and how they transmit pain signals through the ACC. Brain scans found that emotional and cognitive factors can also influence pain of peripheral neuropathy.
When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly. For professional help, see one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will ensure that your feet receive the care that they need.
Systemic Diseases of the Feet
Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable. Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.
Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.
Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.
Diabetes of the Feet
Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.
Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Marathoner Runs to Repay Hospital Staff Who Saved Twin Babies
Des Lynch, a 34-year-old father, recently completed the Dublin marathon despite being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and viral meningitis. Lynch was determined to run the marathon in order to pay back the hospital staff who saved the lives of his twin babies. His twins, Matthew and Noah, were safely delivered prematurely at Dublin’s Coombe hospital thanks to the professionalism of the medical staff. His wife, Susanne Lynch, shared, “We’ve had a very tough time and Des took up running as a way of dealing with the fear and lack of control regarding our sons.”
Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA.. For more information about Rheumatoid Arthritis and its symptoms, consult with one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.
Symptoms
- Swelling & pain in the feet
- Stiffness in the feet
- Pain on the ball or sole of feet
- Joint shift and deformation
Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located inSomerset, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Growing Number of Men Taking an Interest in Pedicured Feet and other forms of Hygiene
A growing number of men are now showing interest in maintaining glowing skin, trimmed beards, and buffed and manicured hands and feet. As more and more men brave their first visits to spas, they begin to discover that the experience leaves them feeling good and looking good. Daniel Francoeur of Bode Spa Medi-Wellness for Men shares that his spa’s more popular services involve foot care. Both the marathon runner and the office worker are prone to minor foot conditions such as corns and cracked heels, and more men are taking strides to visit spas that can relieve them..
Every day foot care is very important, especially for those that are lacking the proper foot care resources. For more information about everyday foot care, consult with one of our podiatrists of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctorswill provide you with the foot- and ankle information you seek.
Every Day Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. After all, without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks. It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before, for example.
For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops.
Also, wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located inSomerset, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
