Monday, 03 February 2020 00:00

Healthy Foods And Stress Fractures

Research has indicated that a large percentage of athlete’s have experienced stress fractures at least once in their lifetime. The feet bear the weight of the body, and can cause muscle fatigue. This may be a significant factor in causing small cracks in the bones of the feet, which can lead to severe pain and discomfort. Recent studies have shown that eating healthy foods may be beneficial in reducing the risk of getting stress fractures. Nutritional deficiencies may contribute to the development of this ailment. Your risk may be diminished by eating fresh fruits and vegetables, as this may help to provide the body with necessary nutrients. If you would like more information about how stress fractures can affect the feet, and how to possibly prevent them, please consult with a podiatrist.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

  • Runners                                  
  • People affected with Osteoporosis
  • Tennis or basketball players
  • Gymnasts
  • High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate 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 and ankle needs.

Read more about Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
Monday, 27 January 2020 00:00

Caring for Your Diabetic Neuropathy

It’s very common for those with diabetes to experience nerve damage. This may cause what is known as diabetic neuropathy, which often affects the feet. With this condition, it can be very difficult to feel if you have developed a wound. If these small injuries are not felt, it’s likely they will go untreated, which can be incredibly dangerous as that may lead to an infection, or further foot complications. To best care for your neuropathy, it’s suggested that you keep your blood sugar at a healthy level, check your feet daily, and refrain from walking barefoot. It is also advised that you wear protective footwear as an extra support for your feet. If you begin to notice symptoms such as a burning or tingling feeling in your feet, we recommend that you consult with a podiatrist as soon as possible for an advised treatment plan.

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.

Read more about Neuropathy

Many patients overlook their feet when it comes to stretching the body. The feet are considered to be the foundation of the body, which is why the overall health of the body may improve when the feet are healthy and flexible. The benefits that are associated with stretching the feet can include improved muscle tone, and cardiovascular health and circulation may become more efficient.  Walking is considered to be a good way to stretch the feet. This is due to the full range of motion that is achieved as each step is taken. The toes can be stretched by crossing one leg over the other while pulling the toes back. When several repetitions of this are completed, switch legs. An effective Achilles tendon stretch happens when your hands are placed on a wall in front of you while simultaneously stepping back with one foot. After feeling a gentle stretch, hold for thirty seconds. If you would like additional information about the importance of stretching the feet, please consult with a podiatrist. 

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

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

  • Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
  • Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
  • Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
  • Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

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.

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Monday, 17 February 2020 00:00

What to Do If You Develop a Corn

To begin treating your corn, it is important to understand what pressure or friction caused its development in the first place. Typically, the main reasons for a corn to form can be from standing for the majority of the day on a hard surface, and wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes which restrict the toes. They may also develop due to previous or existing foot conditions such as a bunion. In order for a corn to go away, the pressure that caused it must first be removed. If this pressure is not removed, the skin will remain hardened and sensitive to the touch. To help prevent this condition, it’s recommended that you dry your feet thoroughly after washing them and apply a moisturizer. Regularly using a pumice stone to remove hardened skin may also help to keep the skin smooth. Most importantly, ensure that your footwear fits properly and comfortably, and provides your toes with an adequate amount of room. To safely remove your corn, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist for professional care and treatment.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

  • Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
  • Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
  • Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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.

Read more about Understanding Corns and Calluses
Monday, 10 February 2020 00:00

Keeping Your Child’s Feet Healthy

To help prevent the development of foot-related complications, it’s important to manage and maintain the health of your child’s feet at an early age. Examining your child’s feet for any abnormalities or wounds can help in providing an early diagnosis of an existing foot condition, as well as prevent possible conditions from worsening. Having children wear socks or booties that are too tight for their feet may cause harm and actually reduce the natural development of their feet if worn too often. Allowing for your child to be shoeless indoors may help in building the muscles of the foot, and strengthen their feet. Keeping their feet dry, clean, and their toenails properly trimmed are all vital for the prevention of common foot conditions, such as ingrown toenails. Maintaining proper foot hygiene for your child can help to set a great example for how they should care for their feet as they get older. For more information on how to help keep your child’s feet healthy, please consult with a podiatrist.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, 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.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

  • Make sure their shoes fit properly
  • Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
  • Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
  • Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
  • Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
  • Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
  • Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
  • Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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.

Read more about How to Care for Your Child's Feet

Peripheral artery disease, otherwise referred to as PAD, causes the blood vessels to narrow, which in turn, restricts blood flow to different parts of the body, including the feet. To help prevent developing this condition, it’s suggested that you commonly partake in physical activity and maintain low cholesterol levels. PAD can be difficult to diagnose, which is why it is so important to be aware of the symptoms. Hair loss on the feet and legs, leg weakness, ulcers on the feet or legs, numbness towards the lower extremity regions, and the foot or leg feeling cold, are all signs indicating you may have developed PAD. There are several methods to test for PAD. In order to properly diagnose this condition and receive the proper treatment, it is highly recommended to consult with a podiatrist.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, 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.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

  • Claudication (leg pain from walking)
  • Numbness in legs
  • Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
  • Paleness of the skin
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
  • Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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.

Read more about Peripheral Artery Disease

The ankle and foot are joined together to provide maximum stability and flexibility. Many patients who participate in running and jumping activities may have an increased risk of having a foot or ankle injury occur. When an ankle sprain happens as a result of an injury, or from suddenly stepping off of a curb, the ligaments and tendons are stretched beyond the normal range of motion. This can cause severe pain and discomfort. Common symptoms of an ankle sprain can consist of swelling, bruising, and it often becomes difficult to walk. Stress fractures are considered to be a hairline fracture, and gradually occur over time. It may happen more frequently in patients who have medical conditions such as osteoporosis or structural abnormalities which can include bunions. If you have endured any type of injury to the foot or ankle, it is advised that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can properly treat any foot condition.

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

  • Broken bones
  • Muscle strains
  • Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
  • Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

  • Bruising
  • Inflammation/ Swelling
  • Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.

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

Read more about Foot and Ankle Trauma
Monday, 02 March 2020 00:00

Rheumatoid Arthritis May Affect the Feet

The medical condition that is known as rheumatoid arthritis is recognized as one of the most inflammatory types of arthritis. The majority of patients who have this ailment may experience uncomfortable foot conditions. Some common symptoms that are associated with this form of arthritis can include swollen joints, limited mobility, and the foot may change shape. There can also be friction in a portion of the foot that is a result of swelling and inflammation. This may cause sacs that are filled with fluid to develop which are known as bursa. These sacs may form on the bottom of the foot, in addition to the heel pad and surrounding area. If your feet are in pain and sore, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose rheumatoid arthritis.

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 Harvey Jacobs, DPM of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

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 and 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 and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Feet

People who are interested in treating disorders of the feet and ankles may consider a career as a podiatrist. They are referred to as Doctors of Podiatric Medicine, and often have the initials DPM following their name. Many podiatrists are able to perform specific types of surgery to correct foot and ankle conditions, in addition to prescribing medicine. Mandatory education consists of achieving a bachelor's degree, followed by enrolling in a college of podiatric medicine. It is beneficial to possess certain life skills which can consist of compassion, becoming detail-oriented, and having critical-thinking skills. If you have questions about pursuing this type of career, please consult with a podiatrist who can help you to determine if this is the best choice for you.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to 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.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

  • Physical therapy
  • Drugs
  • Orthotic inserts or soles
  • Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans 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.

Read more about What is a Podiatrist?
Monday, 30 March 2020 00:00

Possible Symptoms of a Heel Spur

A small growth, generally made of calcium, which forms between the arch of the foot and the heel may be referred to as a heel spur. Common symptoms that affect many patients with this condition can consist of pain in the heel, which may be more intense after arising in the morning, followed by a dull ache that can last most of the day. Additionally, there is often swelling in the heel and surrounding areas, and it may be painful when touched. A heel spur may occur as a result of gradual strain that affects the soft tissues in the heel, and from the formation of calcium deposits. Patients who are overweight, wear improper footwear, or who have endured an injury to the heel, may be more susceptible to developing this condition. If you feel you have this ailment and would like to learn about effective treatment methods, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

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.

Read more about Heel Spurs
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