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Monday, 28 September 2020 00:00
Sources of Heel Pain
The two main causes of heel pain are heel spurs and plantar fasciitis. Heel spurs are bony projections that form at the bottom of the heel bones. They are very common, and in most cases, they aren’t noticeable. Heel spurs cause heel pain in approximately 5% of people who have them. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, a ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot, from the heel to the toes. Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. Both conditions share similar risk factors, such as repetitive athletic stress, obesity, tightness in the calf muscles, and high arches. Both conditions also have similar treatments, including resting and icing the affected foot, changing footwear, and performing foot stretches. Imaging studies, such as X-rays, can be helpful in differentiating between the two conditions. For more information about heel spurs and plantar fasciitis, speak with a podiatrist today.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes
- Wearing non-supportive shoes
- Weight change
- Excessive running
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Wednesday, 23 September 2020 00:00
Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?
Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.
Tuesday, 22 September 2020 00:00
Common Foot Injuries Experienced by Football Players
As we approach fall, we hit the heart of football season. While many of us enjoy football, it can be a high-risk sport, and it is important to understand the potential risks involved. One common injury is turf toe which is another name for a sprain of the metatarsophalangeal joint, the largest joint in the big toe. High ankle sprains, which are more severe than low ankle sprains, occur when the ligaments that connect the tibia and fibula bones are affected. Achilles tendon ruptures are common as well, and these are a result of a sudden change in direction or explosion. Lastly, because of the high amount of contact, broken bones in the feet and ankles are common. If you have experienced an injury to your feet or ankles while playing football, it is important to consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Plantar Fasciosis
- Achilles Tendinitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 14 September 2020 00:00
What Foot Conditions Can Shockwave Therapy Treat?
The medical procedure that is known as shockwave therapy can be helpful in treating conditions that can affect the tissues and bones in the feet. Some of the ailments that can be treated can include plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendon injuries, and heel spurs. It is administered using low energy sound waves, and can easily penetrate the skin when an ultrasound gel is used. It is considered to be a non-invasive treatment for specific foot conditions, and many patients have little or no discomfort while undergoing this type of procedure. If you are afflicted with these foot conditions, it is recommended that you speak to a podiatrist who can determine if this is the best course of treatment for you.
Shockwave therapy is a treatment commonly used to treat various injuries and conditions, particularly plantar fasciitis in the feet. To learn more, consult with Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.
Who Benefits from Shockwave?
Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.
Fast and Easy
The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, addressing the source of the problem and allowing treatment to last for a long time.
Treatment & Recovery Time
Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia. This treatment is a better option to surgery, since it is proven safe.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Shockwave Therapy Tuesday, 08 September 2020 00:00
Excess Weight and Your Foot Health
Being overweight or obese can put you at risk for a variety of health conditions, but did you know that it can also increase your risk of foot pain? Being overweight or obese puts extra pressure on your feet, potentially leading to strains, sprains, fallen arches, and a host of other foot and ankle problems. Furthermore, being overweight or obese increases your risk of developing diabetes, peripheral neuropathy, and peripheral artery disease, which are all associated with foot health problems, such as diabetic foot ulcers, loss of sensation, and poor circulation. Eating a balanced diet and regularly exercising can improve your overall health. Maintain your daily foot health by wearing padded socks and shoes to avoid injury to the feet, practicing good foot hygiene, and checking your feet regularly for cuts and bruises. Regular visits to a podiatrist can also help spot potential problems and prevent future ones. If you are experiencing foot pain, or want to learn more about what you can do to keep your feet healthy, consult with a podiatrist today.
The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Obesity and Your Feet
People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.
Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity
- When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
- Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
- Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Wednesday, 02 September 2020 00:00
Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?
If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!
Monday, 31 August 2020 00:00
Reasons for Reconstructive Foot Surgery
Foot reconstruction is a type of surgery that is performed to correct the anatomy of the foot and restore proper function. Someone might need reconstructive foot surgery following a major injury to the foot that affects the foot’s soft tissue or bones. Vascular diseases, which can interfere with circulation in the lower limbs, may require surgical intervention. Other issues which can cause deformities include metabolic diseases, such as diabetes and gout, that alter the blood and nerve supply of the foot, and tumors. Finally, birth defects such as clubfoot would also need to be corrected via reconstructive surgery. For more information on reconstructive foot surgery, please consult with a podiatrist.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. 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 Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 24 August 2020 00:00
What Can I Do About My Sweaty Feet?
Plantar hyperhidrosis is a medical condition that causes excessively sweaty feet. All of this extra sweat is not only embarrassing, but can also lead to health complications. For example, it may increase your risk of injury due to your feet slipping and sliding in your shoes, or increase your risk of skin infections because of the constant moisture breaking down the skin on your feet. Fortunately, there are several treatments for plantar hyperhidrosis. A podiatrist may prescribe antiperspirants, which block the overactive sweat ducts. Botox injections into the feet, which can temporarily disable sweat glands, are also an effective treatment option. Iontophoresis, in which the feet are submerged in water with an electric current running through it, has been shown to reduce sweating as well. To learn more about plantar hyperhidrosis and to find the right treatment for you, please consult with a podiatrist.
If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.
Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.
In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.
A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 17 August 2020 00:00
Sources of Ankle Pain
A common cause of ankle pain is a sprained ankle. This can cause limited mobility, and it is generally uncomfortable as the healing process occurs. Research has indicated that scar tissue can be a source of ankle pain, and this may originate from past ankle surgeries or injuries. Pain in the ankle that is intermittent can indicate a ligament tear, and may be accompanied by swelling. The ankle may be broken if a fall has occurred, and wearing a cast or walking boot may be required as it heals. If you are experiencing any type of ankle pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat any type of ankle pain.
Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
- Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
- Ankle sprains
- Broken ankles
- Achilles tendinitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Wednesday, 12 August 2020 00:00
Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?
Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.
More...
Monday, 10 August 2020 00:00
Rheumatoid Arthritis Is Associated With Many Foot Conditions
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in and damage to the joints. This condition tends to begin in the smaller joints of the hands and feet. Because of this, rheumatoid arthritis is often associated with a variety of foot conditions. Some of these include heel pain, bunions, hammertoes, flat feet, corns, and calluses. If you have rheumatoid arthritis and experience problems with your feet, it is recommended that you consult with a podiatrist. Receiving treatment can help reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and maintain mobility.
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 Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. 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 Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 03 August 2020 00:00
All About Broken Toes
The pain that is experienced with a broken toe can be debilitating. It may be difficult to walk, and any pressure that is exerted on the toe can cause severe pain and discomfort. A common cause of a broken toe is stubbing it against a piece of furniture. Additionally, if a heavy object is dropped on it, the result may be a fractured toe. Symptoms can include bruising of the toe and surrounding areas, and in severe cases, the toe may look deformed. In many cases effective treatment can consist of using a method that is referred to as buddy taping. This consists of taping the affected toe to the toe next to it, and this is often helpful in providing the stability that is necessary as the healing process occurs. If you feel you may have a broken toe, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you correct treatment options.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
- Bacterial infections
- Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
- Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
- Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
- Genetic predisposition
Prevention
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 27 July 2020 00:00
What Causes Foot Blisters?
Blisters are fluid-filled bumps that form on the foot, typically in response to stress or trauma to the foot. A blister may be caused by excessive friction or irritation to the foot, as one might experience as a result of playing sports, wearing ill-fitting shoes, or having bones in the feet that are poorly aligned. Too much sun exposure and scalding burns may also cause blisters to form. Other potential causes of blisters are skin infections, such as Athlete’s Foot, and bug bites. Depending on their cause, some types of blisters can heal on their own, while others require medical intervention. Consult with a podiatrist if you have concerns about blisters on your feet.
Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can 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.
Symptoms
(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)
- Bubble of skin filled with fluid
- Redness
- Moderate to severe pain
- Itching
Prevention & Treatment
In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Wednesday, 22 July 2020 00:00
Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked
Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.
