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Monday, 25 January 2016 20:18
Four New Drugs To Be Approved For Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis is a debilitating disease that affects as much as 1.5 million people across the nation. RA is a chronic disease that requires extensive treatment over an elongated period of time. Though there have been drugs on the market since the last 15 years, these drugs can be costly to use. These particular RA drugs helped slow the progression of the disease and reduced the need for surgery. However, there are four new RA drugs that are soon to hit the market and that may be more cost-effective than current drugs. These four new drugs are expected to receive FDA approval and expect to aid in the prevention of RA growth in patients.
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. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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 & 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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 18 January 2016 06:21
Dispelling the Myths About Bunions
Jordyn Taylor recalls her experience with bunion shame, referring to the condition as “protrusions of bone that make my toes bend inward at weird, sharp angles, and give my feet the rough overall shape of diamonds.” While she has spent most of her life suffering from weird stares and questions, she has also spent much time dispelling bunion myths. From explaining bunion surgery to dispelling gender norms, she explains it all.
Bunion surgery usually occurs after non-surgical methods have proved to be ineffective. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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 by 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 cause bunions to form
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 Roselle, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 11 January 2016 13:58
Arizona Wildcats Kaleb Tarczewski Out for Foot Injury
Kaleb Tarczewski, senior center for the Arizona Wildcats, has sustained a foot injury and will be out for four to six weeks. The injury is described as a stress reaction and strained muscle. Sophomore Dusan Ristic will be replacing Tarczewski. Tarczewski averages about 57.7 percent shooting and 8.6 points and 7.2 rebounds a game per five games. The Arizona Wildcats won the game against Santa Clara of the Wooden Legacy tournament.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries need proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Sport 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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 04 January 2016 13:14
Barcelona’s Sergi Roberto Sidelined by Ankle Injury
Barcelona’s 23-year-old Sergi Roberto had to be sidelined and subbed off following a right ankle injury. He sustained the injury while skirmishing for the ball with William Vainqueur during the Champions League game against Roma. Although the injury is not yet considered serious, Roberto’s status in future games is currently unknown, and will depend on how he responds to upcoming treatments.
Ankle sprains are common, but need immediate attention. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What are the Symptoms?
● Mild to moderate bruising
● Limited mobility
● Swelling
● Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)
Preventing a Sprain
● Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
● Stretching before exercises and sports
● Knowing your limits can aid in prevention
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen 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 technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 28 December 2015 13:33
New York Jets Lose Zac Stacy to Ankle Fracture
Zac Stacy of the New York Jets has been called out for the season due to a fractured ankle injury following the game against the Buffalo Bills. He had suffered the injury after being tackled by Bills safety Jonathan Meeks after kicking off for 9 yards. Stacy had to be treated on the field by doctors before being carted away. Stacy had to have surgery the following day.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
● Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
● Swelling around the area
● Bruising of the area
● Area appears to be deformed
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
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.
Monday, 21 December 2015 21:28
Diabetic Foot Care in Americans
About over 29 million Americans are living with diabetes in America, according to research from the CDC. Diabetes not only affects your body’s blood sugar and insulin levels, but also affects the circulation of your feet. People who have diabetes need to pay attention to neuropathy, the loss of sensation, in their feet. Diabetes can also result in overall poor body circulation and a weakened immune system. It’s important for feet to be treated and checked often if you have diabetes.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
· Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
· Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
· Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels because blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
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.
Monday, 14 December 2015 09:56
Study Says Achilles Injuries Often Go Overlooked
Next time you go to the doctor, make sure to get your injury checked out thoroughly. The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association says that Achilles tendon injuries are often overlooked by doctors during first examinations, but require constant treatment in order to heal properly. It’s important for patients to get their Achilles tendon injuries checked and treated immediately. The Achilles tendon is essential for movement and is the largest tendon of our bodies. Surgery should be the last option to consider unless patients are young athletes who plan to return to physical activity.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can cause severe difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What are the symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
- Inflammation
- Dull to Severe Pain
- Increased blood flow to the tendon
- Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
- Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
- Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
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.
Monday, 07 December 2015 01:29
Stanford University Loses Marcus Allen due to Stress Fractures
Stanford University’s basketball team is set you lose Marcus Allen due to a stress fracture in his right foot. The team was already starting to thin out, making Allen a key player to their success. This gives coach Johnny Dawkins no choice, but to put all of his faith in his front court players. “We want to make sure Marcus is fully healthy before returning to the court,” coach Dawkins stated before admitting he will certainly be missed.
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 A. 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.
Monday, 30 November 2015 23:10
British Study finds Sedentary Behavior can increase Fatality Risk
A recent British study has found that fatality risks among females ages 37 to 78 who sat and did not engage in leg-swinging for over 7 hours or more at a time have a 30% higher fatality risk than those who sat for five hours or less. Among those who habitually fidget however, no increases were observed regardless of how long one sat. The researchers concluded that foot tapping and leg jiggling may reduce the fatality risk among those who sit for long periods of time. Sedentary behavior has been known to cause a decline in the function of blood vessels, which can negatively affect circulation. Foot tapping and leg jiggling can promote circulation, as the legs are constantly moving.
Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Poor Circulation in the Feet
Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.
Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. It usually restricts the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.
Causes
Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development.
It can also cause:
-muscle pain -numbness in legs
-cramps -skin discoloration
-weakness -slower nail & hair growth
-stiffness -erectile dysfunction
Those who have diabetes and or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, or who are over 50.
If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD, and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.
As always see a doctor as they will help try and fit a regime that suits you. A doctor will also prescribe you medication which will help for PAD.
If you have any questions, please contact our office in Roselle, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Monday, 23 November 2015 14:04
Certain Factors Make Some More Susceptible to Plantar Fasciitis
While plantar fasciitis is a common condition that does not discriminate, there are certain factors that can make some people more susceptible. Those over 40 years old, are often on your feet at work, have gained weight or have lost calf muscle flexibility, may find that they are more likely to have symptoms of the condition. Although symptoms include pain when you first wake up, stand for a long time, or walk without foot supports, there are treatments available. By ensuring you have the proper foot support and regularly ice your feet, you can help reduce and prevent further inflammation.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, visit Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor can treat your heel pain as well as any other foot or ankle condition.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of a the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
· Excessive running
· Non-supportive shoes
· Overpronation
· Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
· Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
· Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
· Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
If you have any questions, please contact our office in Roselle, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
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Monday, 16 November 2015 05:45
Elvis Costello Recalls Drastic Measures He Went Through to Fix Pediatric Flat Feet
Popular 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.
Monday, 09 November 2015 00:48
Arkansas’ Keon Hatcher Goes to Surgery for Foot Injury
Keon 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.
Tuesday, 03 November 2015 14:29
A New Therapy for Those Suffering From Diabetic Foot Ulcers
A 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:
Basic stretching & twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.
Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.
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.
Monday, 26 October 2015 04:31
How to Prevent Blisters During your Next Night Out
Lindsey 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.
