childrens feet17Popular musician Elvis Costello recalls his younger days when doctors determined he had flat feet the remedies they would attempt to fix the foot ailment. After constantly reminded he would never make it into the army Costello states, “I was taught to pick up a ball of socks with my feet like a monkey and walk on my ankles to strengthen my arches.  I even had my feet placed in bowls of water, through which is doctor ran a mild electric current.” While these methods are obviously extreme, methods today are significantly less horrific.

Most arches will develop in children after a certain age. If you suspect that your child has the condition, speak to Dr. Yeon A. Shimof Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will answer any of your foot and ankle related questions and attend to all of your podiatric needs.

What are Flat Feet?

Flat feet are a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. Standing about 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arch never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – if you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms:

Pain around the heel or arch area

Trouble standing on the tip toe.

Swelling around the inside of the ankle.

Flat look to one or both feet.

Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment:

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and treatments for your foot and ankle needs.

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feet3Keon Hatcher, the Arkansas Razorbacks senior wide receiver, will be out for at least six weeks following a foot injury. Head coach Brett Bielema didn’t go into further detail on Hatcher’s injury but he did confirm that Hatcher went in for surgery on Monday. The six week absence will allow Hatcher to rehab and re-strengthen his foot to hopefully get back on the field at full strength by mid-season.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to fix a foot ailment. If you have any concerns about your foot and ankle needs contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat 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 help with the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary are:

·         Removing foot deformities like bone spurs and bunions

·         Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues

·         Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

·         Bunionectomy for painful bunions

·         Surgical fusion for realignment of bones

·         Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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corns2A new form of therapy may increase the long-term survival rate of patients with diabetes and chronic diabetic foot ulcers. The new therapy, called hyperbaric oxygen therapy, uses high oxygen pressure given in hyperbaric chambers to systematically treat ulcers. Magnus Löndahl, MD, PhD, of Lund University shared, “One of the beneficial outcomes of this treatment is that you have an acute increment in oxygen concentration in the tissue, and later on you probably have some beneficial effect in microvascular function … In conclusion, in this trial, hyperbaric oxygen therapy seems to improve the 6-year survival in patients with diabetes and chronic foot ulcers.”

Foot therapy is a good idea for those with chronic pain and to recovery from foot injuries. To get consultation for foot therapy, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Most common injuries

People who are constantly on their feet are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is important to take part in physical therapy in order to get back on the right track quickly.

What to do when injured

Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. This is important for those wanting to get back into the game quickly. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.

During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. These are some steps physical therapy often involves:

  1. Basic stretching & twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.

  2. Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.

  3. Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.

With the advancements in technology and greater knowledge of how muscles and joints work, physical therapists can turn things around dramatically.    

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.

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flip flops7Lindsey Rose Black from Bustle has listed a few ways to reduce blisters on the feet the next time you go out on the town in your high heels. Wearing thin socks with your heels around the home can help break in the shoe as well as show you wear your feet may blister when wearing them outside. This method can tell you where to rub slicking balm or deodorant to prevent friction from causing blisters on your feet. Sprinkling cornstarch on your feet before putting on your shoes can keep them from getting too moist; moistened feet are more prone to blisters than dry feet! Putting on a protective covering over your Achilles or any other place you are known to blister before you actually blister may prevent a lot of pain. Ultimately it is best to make sure your shoes fit properly to prevent any foot ailment, even blistering.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If you have any concerns with blisters on your feet contact Dr. Yeon Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a doctor.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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fungal toenail2According to a study conducted by the University of Delaware, barefoot running and running with ordinary running shoes will have the same effects on the feet and body. Dr. Allison Altman-Singles and Dr. Irene Davis used 107 barefoot participants and 94 runners with shoes and studied their injuries over the course of a year. While they expected the barefoot runners to sustain a fewer amount of injuries, the study showed that both groups sustained an equal amount of injuries within the year. However, the study showed that the barefoot group was only able to cover 24 kilometers per week while the shoe group covered 41 kilometers per week covering more ground with less injury. While the shoe group did cover more ground Altman-Singles did find that the demographic of the barefoot group seemed to be an older and less competitive crowd.

Barefoot running has its own share of benefits and disadvantages. To learn more about this trend, consider speaking to Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will explain the facts of barefoot running and help you decide if it’s a practice you’d like to take up.

Barefoot Running

The Impact of Barefoot Running
-Running without shoes changes the motion of your running, as most running is done by landing on the heel of the feet.
-Running barefoot requires a different way of running; the landing is done on the front part of the feet.

The Advantages of Barefoot Running
-When running and landing on the front feet, the impact on the feet and ankle is reduced, this can reduce stress injuries.
-It strengthens muscles in the feet and ankles and the lower legs.
-Balance of the body is improved and there is a greater sensory input from the feet to the rest of the body.

The Drawbacks of Barefoot Running
-No protection while running, makes it likely that runners will land on sharp objects and scrapes, bruises and cuts on the feet will result.
-Blisters may form.
-Possibility of plantar fascia problems.
-Risk of getting Achilles tendonitis.

So what can runners do to make barefoot running safe? It’s best to make a slow transition from running shoes to barefoot running. Once the feet begin to adjust, try walking, then jogging and gradually increasing the distance. Minimalist running shoes may also be an option.

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 care needs.

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broken toeSpring and summer weather is a sure indication of sandals, bare feet, and painted toes. Some women, however, have to contend with foot conditions such as ingrown toenails that developed over the winter months. Experts provide women with4 tips for ingrown toenail prevention and treatment. Be careful while cutting toenails and be careful to not cut the cuticles. Wear shoes that do not squish toes or force the big toe inward. Clip toenails straight across. Finally, soak the feet in a solution of ½ cup iodine and 1 gallon of warm water for 15 to 20 minutes a day.

Ingrown toenails are very painful and could lead to other complications. If you have any concerns about your ingrown toenails contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

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 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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about ingrown toenails.

foot ankle injuriesAlex Carter of the Detroit Lions recently partook in his first practice since having sprained his ankle. The rookie cornerback was sidelined for all of training camp due to the injury. Carter only participated in individual drills. “I’m doing as much as I can do right now,” he stated. “We’re still working on the progression, getting back. But this week will be a good week for me.” Detroit Lions coach Jim Caldwell shared that he is not rushing Carter’s return: “He’s missed so much, it’s going to take him a little bit to catch up.”

Getting back into sports after injuring a foot or ankle can be very difficult for both the body and mind. See Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctorwill attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

Getting Back into Sports after Foot and Ankle Injuries

While one of the most common injuries among athletes may be a sprained ankle, there are still many other types of injuries that plague athletes in any sport. But for less severe foot and ankle injuries, it is recommended by physical therapists and sports medicine doctors that athletes use the R.I.C.E. method to help alleviate pain and to speed up the healing process.

The acronym R.I.C.E. stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. These four steps help in the healing process, not only to reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation, but also to improve overall health of the affected area, allowing you to get back on to your feet again. Although resting is usually the key to all healing, it is necessary to see a doctor to ensure treatment for any other problems that may not be obvious to you right away.

It is best for injured athletes to allow themselves time to heal. Some athletes need hours of re-training, exercise, check-ups with their physical therapist, and other remedies.

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

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orthotics5Foot Levelers, a custom orthotic manufacturer, has recently come out with a new orthotic flip-flop known as Bling. The flip-flop has been created for women because of its rhinestone straps and it's comfortable suede top cover. “For years there’s been a tremendous need for a flip-flop that doesn’t do harm to the body, but instead helps people achieve total body wellness,” stated Senior Vice President Dawn Galbraith. Foot Levelers Bling flip-flop is made with an EVA mid-layer, cushioning, and a rubber sole for non-slipping.

Orthotics can help provide support and prevent injury to your feet. If you have any questions contact Dr. Yeon Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain, but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct over arched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you, or if you have a more severe foot issue, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and more severe heel pain.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist on the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain free.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Orthotics.

toenail fungus7Louisville, KY is asking their residents to help homeless veterans take better care of their feet as they recognize the vast population of former service members that are currently homeless. On October 7, the city is participating in the Retired & Senior Volunteer Program, a federally funded event that offers foot washing for homeless veterans. While the city estimated nearly 260 homeless veterans last year, they understand that many of which are suffering from diabetes and other foot ailments may not have the proper care, resources, or understanding to care for their feet. The event will have volunteers use a clean washcloth and towel in addition to providing new socks for the volunteers.

Every day foot care is very important, especially for those that are lacking the proper foot care resources. For more information about everyday foot care, consult with Dr. Yeon Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctorwill provide you with the foot- and ankle information you seek.

Every Day Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. After all, without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks. It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before, for example.

For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops.

Also, wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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

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broken foot4Anna Rohrer, national cross country champion, is ready to run for Notre Dame after suffering stress fractures in the navicular bones of both feet. Rohrer, becoming one of the top 10 runners in the country during high school, obtained the stress fractures due to years of an improper foot-strike and had to face surgery with six weeks of wheelchair recovery. With the proper amount of rest, physical therapy, and training, Rohrer was cleared to run again by the spring of 2014. Since then the athlete has had her heart set on joining Notre Dame’s running community. “I really connected with the team and coach,” she states.

Activities, where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Yeon Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

The Stress Fractures occur on the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use. Then the feet and ankles 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. The stress on the feet causes cracks to form in the bones, thus called 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

-play tennis or basketball

-gymnastics

-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 in high impact will aggravate pain.

For more information about Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle, follow the link below.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

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