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(908) 381-8160Berkeley Heights

March 2020

Monday, 30 March 2020 00:00

Can Arthritis Affect the Feet?

Arthritis is considered to be a condition that can affect the bones of the feet. This can make walking painful, and daily activities may become compromised. There are different types of arthritis that may cause foot conditions to develop. Osteoarthritis may cause bunions to form, and this may be a result of cartilage that becomes damaged at the bottom of the big toe. Rheumatoid arthritis generally causes the joints in the feet to become inflamed, and the bottom of the foot may become affected. If you have pain in your feet and think it may be a form of arthritis, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Janet Leicht from New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

  • Swelling
  • Pain
  • Stiffness
  • Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

  • Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
  • Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
  • Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
  • Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
  • Age – Risk increases with age
  • Gender –Most types are more common in women
  • Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

Read more about How to Care for Your Arthritic Foot
Monday, 23 March 2020 00:00

How Do You Get a Broken Toe?

The bones that are in each toe are generally fragile. If a heavy object falls on one or more of your toes, this could result in a broken toe. Additionally, a broken toe may occur if your toe is stubbed against a piece of furniture. Immediate symptoms can often include severe pain and discomfort, swelling, and the toe may turn black and blue. It may help to reduce swelling by keeping the affected foot elevated, and walking as little as possible. An effective treatment method for toes that are mildly broken is referred to as “buddy taping”. This is done by taping the fractured toe to the toe next to it. This technique can be beneficial in providing the necessary support as the healing process takes place. If you feel you have broken your toe, please consult with a podiatrist who can offer the correct treatment options for you.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Janet Leicht from New Jersey. 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 Berkeley Heights, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Monday, 16 March 2020 00:00

The Function of the Sesamoid Bones

The sesamoid bones are located under the ball of the foot. They help to enable the big toe to press down, and pain and discomfort may develop if they should become inflamed. This may happen as a result of participating in running and jumping activities, or from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Common symptoms that can be associated with this ailment may include pain on the bottom of the foot, and it may be difficult to stand on your tiptoes. Patients who have this condition may find moderate relief when the affected foot is elevated, and it may help to use an insole that can support the arch. If you feel you may have sesamoiditis, it is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat this condition. 

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. Janet Leicht of New Jersey. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

  • Sudden increase in activity
  • Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
  • Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

Read more about Sesamoiditis
Monday, 09 March 2020 00:00

What Is a Podiatrist?

Physicians who treat foot conditions and disorders are referred to as Doctors of Podiatric Medicine (DPM), also commonly known as podiatrists. Their role in the medical field can be vital in determining certain maladies in the body. This can be a result of symptoms that present themselves in the feet. There are several foot conditions that podiatrists are capable of treating. These can include structural deformities such as hammertoe and bunions, in addition to foot wounds, flat feet, and ingrown toenails. People who are interested in pursuing a career in podiatry must complete two years of residency following a bachelor's degree. The residency programs teach the interns medical and surgical procedures, in addition to training in foot surgery. If you are interested in pursuing a career in podiatry, it is strongly advised that you speak with a podiatrist who can help you to determine if this is the right field for you.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact Dr. Janet Leicht from New Jersey. 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 Berkeley Heights, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What is a Podiatrist?

If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.

There are a few different types of running injuries that can occur. These often include plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and the ankle can endure a fracture or sprain. The plantar fascia connects the toes to the heel, and may become inflamed if the patient frequently runs. This can be prevented by wearing shoes that fit correctly, and performing stretches that are designed to stretch the Achilles tendon before and after completing a run. If the ankle is twisted while running and becomes sprained, it may help to wrap an elastic bandage around it for additional support. This type of injury may be prevented by incorporating flexibility and strength training exercises into a daily workout routine. If you would like additional information about how to prevent running injuries, please consult with a podiatrist.

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 Dr. Janet Leicht of New Jersey. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

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

Read more about Preventing Running Injuries
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