New Study Shows Gout Not Related to Foot Fractures
A recent study conducted by Keele University has shown that gout is not related to foot fractures. This news contrasts with prior speculation that the two foot ailments were correlated. Gout is the most common form of inflammatory arthritis, and it is caused by a buildup of urate crystals in the joint. Some symptoms of gout include severe pain and swelling in the joints, and this pain is most commonly experienced in the big toe. Although the study suggests that gout itself is not related to foot fractures, there has been some evidence that suggests chronic inflammation may result in a foot fracture. Researchers at Keele University found that medications used to lower urate acid in those with gout didn't have an impact on one’s long-term risk of developing a fracture. If you have any questions regarding Gout or are experiencing any symptoms, a consultation with a podiatrist is suggested.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.
Symptoms
- Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
- Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
- Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
- Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility
Risk Factors
- Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
- Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
- Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
- Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
- Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
- Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout
Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.
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.
What are the Differences Between Walking and Running Shoes?
Research has shown there are notable differences between walking and running shoes. These may include having thicker soles to allow for additional stability. The technique of walking differs between the two types of shoes. Walkers tend to land on their heels as opposed to runners who appear to land flat-footed. Stability is often increased as a result of the design of the shoes, and this may help to guide the foot in a forward motion. For both types of shoes, it’s important to have ample room for the toes to move about, in addition to having adequate flexibility that meet the demands of your chosen sport. Please consult with a podiatrist for additional information about the differences between walking and running shoes.
For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.
Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes
There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.
You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.
Differences
Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.
Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.
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.
How Can I Tell If I’ve Broken My Toe?
If you have suffered a broken toe, it is typically a result of an injury that has occurred or from a heavy object falling on the foot. Often, people may stub or jam their toe which may lead to the toe becoming fractured. There are several symptoms that are easily identifiable, including bruising, pain while walking, or a deformed look to the toe. In more severe fractures, the bone may protrude from the skin and the nail may become injured which may cause a subungual hematoma, often referred to as an open fracture. Typical treatment methods may consist of the toe being placed in a splint which prevents mobility to ensure proper healing. A simple fracture generally will heal completely in approximately six weeks but complications may develop such as arthritis, pain, and stiffness from a more severely broken toe. A podiatrist can properly diagnose a broken toe and it’s advised to schedule a consultation when the injury occurs.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. 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 to Know About a Broken Toe
Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- Throbbing pain
- Swelling
- Bruising on the skin and toenail
- The inability to move the toe
- Toe appears crooked or disfigured
- Tingling or numbness in the toe
Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.
Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.
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 and ankle needs.
Several Common Types of Foot Pain
There are several foot conditions that may produce considerable pain. Fractures, sprains and Achilles tendon injuries may all be among common foot ailments that fall into this category. Stiffness may be a result of tendinitis in the foot, and relief may be found by consulting with a podiatrist for proper treatment options. A type of arthritis referred to as gout is known to cause severe pain at the bottom of the big toe and surrounding areas. It is a result of excess crystals that form in the bloodstream due to a large amount of uric acid in the blood. Foods that are rich in purines such as shellfish and red meat may contribute to the onset of gout. Other causes of foot pain may include plantar fasciitis, uncontrolled diabetes, or Morton’s neuroma. A podiatrist will be able to determine the specific cause of certain foot pain, and it’s suggested to seek counsel as soon as possible.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Bunions
- Hammertoes
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Bone Spurs
- Corns
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Ingrown Toenails
- Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
- Flat Feet
- Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
- And more
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
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.
Jorge Soler Suffers from Foot Fracture
The Royals will have to play the next few weeks without their outfielder Jorge Soler. Soler recently fractured his left first metatarsal when he tripped running out of the batter’s box during a game. The injury hasn’t been ruled severe enough to require surgery, but the Royals are expected to re-evaluate the fracture soon. Fortunately, there is a possibility that the break may heal on its own. However, if Soler’s CT scan reveals a further separation of bones, surgery may be necessary. Soler is expected to be placed on the disabled list very soon and he will most likely be out of gameplay until August. Soler’s injury will be a monumental loss for an already struggling Kansas City Royals team. If you suspect that you have a fracture in your foot, you should consult with your podiatrist right away.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, 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.
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 in color
- 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 and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
The Benefits of Stretching the Feet
Research has shown that walking is one of the best ways to stretch the feet. When a step is taken, the foot completes a full range of motion as the heel makes contact with the ground causing the foot to lift with the toes. There are flexibility and resistance exercises that will strengthen the foot, and may benefit the general health of the body. When stretches are practiced daily, the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the foot will typically become stronger and may help to provide optimum support for the entire foot. Effective stretches include lifting one leg while sitting in a chair, rotating the ankle several times, and then changing directions. To strengthen the sole of the foot, step back with one foot while standing, then slowly lift the heel until a gentle stretch is felt, and then repeat on the other foot. A consultation with a podiatrist is suggested for additional information about the benefits of stretching the feet.
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor 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 Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Jets' Running Back Suffers Foot Fracture
Eli McGuire of the New York Jets has been sidelined for the foreseeable future due to a broken foot. Recent news has emerged stating that the team's 2017 sixth-round draft pick will need surgery to repair the fracture. McGuire is expected to miss approximately three to six weeks of gameplay due to the injury. It was announced that the Jets have started to look for replacement running backs, which has led many to believe that they expect McGuire to miss a significant amount of time. The best case scenario for the Jets would be for McGuire’s injury to heal in the short end of the recovery window, which would allow him to return in time for the team’s third game of the season. If you have a foot fracture and are looking to explore your treatment options and recovery time frame, it is best to see a podiatrist right away.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:
- Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
- 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 please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Nationals’ Pitcher Suffers Toe Injury
Sean Doolittle of the Washington Nationals noticed a difference in the way he landed off the mound after he finished his pitches. To his surprise, he felt discomfort in his toe and decided to have an MRI to discover the cause. The initial MRI revealed no structural damage, however a second MRI was able to reveal a stress reaction. Doolittle believes the injury stemmed from the burden that is placed on his foot from his pitch delivery. He is currently avoiding all baseball activity, which isn’t a good sign for the Nationals. Kelvin Herrera is expected to fill in as temporary closer while Doolittle is on the disabled list.
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.
Vegan Woman is Surprised to Discover She Has Gout
A vegan woman recalls a time when she experienced what she describes as a “mysterious pain” in her right ankle. She recounts that the pain was reminiscent of a sunburn mixed with an explosion of agony. When she visited her doctor, she was able to discover that the pain and swelling she was experiencing was due to a condition called gout. Gout is a condition that is often the result of eating large amounts of red meat, shellfish, and beer. Consequently, this woman was shocked to learn the cause of her condition, because she had been living a vegan lifestyle. Her case of gout was confirmed through a blood test that revealed she had a buildup of monosodium urate monohydrate crystals in her ankle. Nevertheless, this woman made it her mission to not allow gout to take control of her life. She exercises on a daily basis, socializes with friends, and continues her job to ensure that her life is not disrupted by gout.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor 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 and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
How Certain Conditions May be Avoided by Choosing the Correct Shoe
Many people have experienced pain in the feet after frequently wearing high heels, and research has shown this may cause possible damage to the feet. For many women, the muscles in the feet may endure additional strain as a result of shortened calf muscles. The feet may be permanently flexed in addition to the toes existing in a pointed position. Other conditions involving the feet may include hammer toes, ligament tears, or bunions. Some women may be at a greater risk for fractures if high heels are worn socially and balance may be affected by alcohol. Despite the risks of possible foot injuries, many women will continue to wear high heels on a daily basis. By choosing proper shoes to wear, certain foot conditions may be avoided. These may include wearing shoes with a larger area for the toes to move about and keeping the heel as short as possible. If you would like additional information about how your feet are affected by high heels, please consult with a podiatrist.
High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, 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.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal. Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?
- Ankle Joints
- Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
- Balls of the Feet
- Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
- Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain. The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.
What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?
- Corns
- Calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Morton’s Neuroma
- Plantar Fasciitis
How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?
If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available.
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 and ankle needs.
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Causes of Swollen Feet During Pregnancy
Many women enjoy being pregnant, but will often complain about their feet becoming swollen as the pregnancy progresses. It’s a common condition that often develops as a result of excess fluid the body produces in addition to pressure exerted from the growing baby. Most of the swelling will dissipate after the baby is born, but until then, there are specific ways to find moderate relief. Research has shown the importance of lying on your left side while sleeping, in addition to consuming plenty of water and exercising regularly. The majority of pregnant women may find that elevating their feet as often as possible and not standing for extended periods of time may help to reduce a portion of the swelling. If you are pregnant and are experiencing severely swollen feet, please consult with a podiatrist for additional information on how to properly care for your feet.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
- Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
- Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
- Wear shoes with good arch support
- Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
- Elevate feet if you experience swelling
- Massage your feet
- Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
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 and ankle needs.
What Causes Athlete’s Foot?
There are several obvious symptoms that are associated with athlete’s foot, including itching, blisters, and cracked skin between the toes. Fortunately, moderate relief can be found with proper treatment. This condition is caused by a fungus, and it often thrives in warm and moist areas such as public pools, showers, and surrounding areas. It is known to be contagious, and it can be prevented by wearing appropriate shoes when visiting these areas. It may be beneficial to wear shoes that allow the feet to breathe in addition to wearing cotton socks that will aid in absorbing sweat. There are several treatment options available and it’s advised to consult with a podiatrist to determine which treatment is best for you.
Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.
What Is Athlete’s Foot?
Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.
Prevention
The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:
- Thoroughly washing and drying feet
- Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
- Using shower shoes in public showers
- Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
- Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot
Symptoms
Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:
- Redness
- Burning
- Itching
- Scaly and peeling skin
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.
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.
Symptoms and Causes of Bunions
A foot condition that is referred to as a bunion is known as a bone disorder. It appears as a hard protrusion on the side of the big toe and may develop as a result of the bone structure that is out of alignment. The joint may begin to extend abnormally, and this may be caused by the second toe pushing against the big toe. There may be several reasons why people develop bunions, and these may include an injury that has occurred to the foot, different types of arthritis, low arches, or inherited traits. The symptoms that many patients experience may be a burning sensation, swelling on or around the afflicted joint, redness, or discomfort. Despite the fact that research has shown how wearing shoes that fit incorrectly do not cause bunions, the symptoms may be severely uncomfortable as a result of this. If you feel you have developed a bunion, it’s advised to seek the counsel of a podiatrist to discuss what treatments options are available for you.
If you are suffering from bunions, 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.
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 due to 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 worsen existing bunions
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, 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.
Causes of peripheral neuropathy
There is a type of nerve disorder that is known as peripheral neuropathy. The purpose of this type of nervous system is to provide a connection between the spinal cord, brain, and the central nervous system to the rest of the body. If these nerves should become damaged, peripheral neuropathy may begin to develop, and this may typically cause symptoms such as tingling in the feet or a loss of feeling. Additional symptoms may include experiencing a sharp pain, low blood pressure, or excessive sweating. There may be common reasons for this ailment to develop, including an inherited trait, an infection or an injury. If you are experiencing a sensation of “pins and needles” in your feet, please consider speaking with a podiatrist to learn what the best course of treatment may be for you.
Neuropathy
Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.
What Is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.
Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:
- Numbness
- Sensation loss
- Prickling and tingling sensations
- Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
- Muscle weakness
Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.
Treatment
To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.
Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.
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.
