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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.
Spring 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.
Alex 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.
Read more about Getting Back into Sports after Foot and Ankle Injuries
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.
Louisville, 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.
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.
Although keeping nails well-kept by having them adorned with colorful polish can be fun, many doctors recommend giving your nails at least a week of polish free nails to avoid problem such as nail fungus. Certain nail polishes have dyes in them that can dry out the nail bed and cause bacteria, mold, and nail fungus. One of the best ways to keep the nails healthy is to expose them to air every now and then. However, some salons do offer special polishes that specialize in preventing toenail fungus and other problems.
While toenail fungus is troublesome to eradicate, it is not impossible. For more information about treatment, consult with Dr. Yeon Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will attend to all of your podiatric needs.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a problem which affects many people and is hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating toenail fungus.
Antibiotics & Treatments
Lamisil – is the most commonly effective treatment for toenail fungus. It is available as an antibiotic Terbinafine tablet and cream. Terbinafine is a chemical component which kills fungal growth on the body. Applying regular doses will gradually kill the fungal growth. It is important to keep the area clean and air free.
Talcum powder – applying powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well
Alternative Treatments
There are always surgical procedures that are available for toenail fungus. Some people would like immediate quick removal of toenail fungus. Surgeons will be able to cut through and remove the growth using laser surgery. It is important not to try and remove it yourself. Once removed, your old shoes will need to be replaced to avoid reinfection.
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.
According to various trials and reviews on PubMed health and Google Scholar, running--when compared to walking--can lead to more injuries. As the intensity of the running program increases, so does the risk for injury. Of all runners, ultra-marathoners are at highest risk for sustaining injury; the most common being tibia stress syndrome, Achilles tendon injuries, and plantar fasciitis. In general, more than 50% of people who run will sustain an injury of some sort; only about 1% of walkers sustain injury, and one can walk for an indeterminate amount of time without risking injury.
Exercising your feet regularly is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet contact Dr. Yeon Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Exercise for Your Feet
Exercise for your feet can help you to gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important and often we forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate not to have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure its good health in the long run.
Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rise, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, also flexing the toes and involving the shins may help too. It is best to speak with your doctor regarding how to do these fitness steps and how often is right for you. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different and it varies from individual to individual to determine what should be done for you to maintain strength in your feet.
Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.
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.
Julie Lopez was attending her daughter’s wedding when she decided to kick off her high heel shoes and attend the reception barefoot, an occurrence many women who have suffered high heel pain are surely familiar with. The experience caused Lopez, who has a background in orthopedic nursing, to take matters into her own hands and design her own shoes. Her company, Julie Lopez Shoes, produces high heels that are much more comfortable for women. “We widen the forefoot of the shoe just a little bit,” she explains, which allows for the toes to spread out and keep them from uncomfortable positions.
High heel have a history for causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet contact Dr. Yeon Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because they are associated with femininity. Despite their appeal, they can cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
What parts my body will be affected by high heels?
· Ankle Joints
· Achilles Tendon – may shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
· Balls of the Feet
· Knees – heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
· Back – they decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain. Also, the vertebrae of the lower back may compress.
What kinds of foot problems can develop from wearing high heels?
· Corns
· Calluses
· Hammertoe
· Bunions
· Morton’s Neuroma
· Plantar Fasciitis
How can I still wear high heels and maintain foot health?
If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock; you can buy either full inserts or metatarsal pads.
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.
Australian surgeons are now practicing minimally invasive surgery for bunions to reduce the amount of pain and recovery time for patients. Michelle Thacker of North South Wales experienced both minimally invasive surgery and traditional bunion surgery for the bunions on her left and right feet. The difference between the two are that minimally invasive surgeries include multiple smaller 3mm incisions with the bunion drilled and realigned with screws; traditional surgeries involve one large incision. After the second bunion surgery involving minimally invasive surgery, Thacker stated, “The recovery time was much quicker - a lot less pain post op, I can barely see a scar and I was able to run after three months.”
Bunion surgery usually occurs after non-surgical methods have proved to be ineffective. If you have any concerns contact Dr. Yeon Shim of Roselle Podiatry. 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 concerns 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.
According to a study conducted by Bridget Teevan Burke of Johns Hopkins University, older individuals suffering from gout and hyperuricemia are more likely to have limited function of the lower extremities. The study included 5,819 participants; 10% reportedly suffered from gout and 21% suffered from hyperuricemia. The study concluded that participants suffering from gout had a slower walking speed and a lower Short Physical Performance Battery score compared to those without the disease. Assistant professor Mara McAdams DeMarco stated, “We were surprised to see that these associations were limited to lower extremity function. However, this makes sense given that the most common localizations of affected joints are in the lower extremity.”
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you have any concerns regarding gout, consult with Dr. Yeon Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
What is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and holistic treatment protocols for all your individual foot and ankle needs.
Arthritis affects approximately 52 million people in the United States—and these are the people officially diagnosed by a physician. Those suffering from arthritis and its symptoms, however, can benefit from several steps to help cope with the condition. The first steps one can take involve learning more about the condition, knowing what kind of arthritis one has, and responding to prolonged symptoms by seeing a physician. Excess weight can add pressure on the joints—especially the feet; therefore exercising, losing weight, and leading an active lifestyle is important. Protect the joints by avoiding using the same joints constantly and alternating movement. Rest and relaxation is also important to avoid straining affected areas.
The feet are one of the most common sites for arthritis to occur in the body. If you are struggling with arthritis in your feet or ankles, call Dr. Yeon Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor can examine your lower extremities to help alleviate your joint pain.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves inflammation of different joints in your body, such as in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. On top of this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.
In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.
Alleviating Arthritic Pain
Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
Massages can help to temporarily alleviate pain.
It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.
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 of your foot ankle injuries.
The NHS team at Bradford City Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is holding a walk to back Diabetes UK’s Putting Feet First campaign to raise awareness for the thousands of amputations that occur each year from a lack of diabetic foot care. Many of the amputations that occur each year are completely preventable and Dr. Sohail Abbas of Bradford states, “It is especially important to look after your feet if you have diabetes because it can reduce blood supply to your feet and cause a lack of sensations. The main message of the campaign is for diabetics to pay better attention to their feet.
Amputations occur in extreme cases in diabetics when the feet are not properly cared for. If you have any concerns about your diabetic feet, contact Dr. Yeon Shim, DPM 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.
Ethan Finlay of the Columbus Crew SC has broken his toe during a game against the Chicago Fire. Gregg Berhalter, team manager, knew there was a problem during the game when a Chicago defender slid into Finlay, earning a yellow card for the defender. Finlay attempted to play after the injury, but ended up limping of the field and getting replaced by another team member. Berhalter plans to hold Finlay out of the next game with limited training, but he is not expected to miss more than just a couple of games.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns contact Dr. Yeon Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. 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 concerns 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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