Grades of Ankle Sprains
When an individual sprains their ankle, they typically move or turn it in an unnatural way that ends up stretching ligaments in the ankle area. As a result, an individual might experience swelling and a diminished ability to move the ankle. There are several different types or grades of ankle sprains that you should be familiar with. First, there is the Grade I ankle sprain, which is defined as having relatively minor symptoms, such as a small degree of swelling. There are also Grade II ankle sprains, which are defined as having moderate symptoms. Those with Grade II symptoms might demonstrate a degree of instability and some moderate pain during physical activities. Lastly, there are Grade III ankle sprains, which are severe. This kind of injury can involve a large amount of swelling and a total rupture. If you have sprained your ankle, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today who can treat your condition.
Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Donald Manger, DPM from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
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
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 Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Gout Pain Can Be Managed
Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
How Arthritis Can Affect the Feet and Ankles
Many types of arthritis can affect the small joints of the feet, ankles, and toes. These include osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). OA is thought to be a wear and tear disease because it causes the cartilage in the joints to wear down from repeated stress over time. The bones lose their protective coverings and start to rub together leading to inflammation and pain. This type of arthritis mainly affects the first metatarsal joint (MTP), which connects the big toe to the foot. It can also impact the midfoot and ankle. RA is an autoimmune disease that involves multiple joints throughout the body. The immune system causes inflammation that attacks the synovium (lining of the joints) that cover joints and causes them to become swollen and painful. This type of arthritis often begins in the feet and ankles but can also affect the heels, midfoot, and forefoot. It is symmetrical, meaning it affects the same joints on both sides of the body. Repeated attacks can lead to bone, joint, ligament and tendon damage, eventually causing deformity or disability. Anyone with these or other types of arthritis can experience foot involvement and it can make it hard to walk and get through daily life. While there is no cure for arthritis, there are treatment options to slow down the progression of the disease and relieve symptoms. Please see a podiatrist for help if your arthritis is affecting your feet.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Donald Manger, DPM from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to 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 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 Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
The Pain in Your Feet May Indicate Rheumatoid Arthritis
The signs of rheumatoid arthritis are often first noticed in the feet. It is considered to be a type of inflammatory arthritis and can cause severe pain and discomfort. Common symptoms associated with this condition include swelling, and the foot may feel warm and sore when touched. The foot also may gradually change shape, and this may lead to joint instability. Most people who are afflicted with this ailment notice that the smaller joints of the toes are affected. It is often challenging to walk, and it may be difficult to complete daily activities. In severe cases, the joints can rub together excessively, possibly affecting bursae. These are defined as sacs that are filled with fluid and may become inflamed, which is known as bursitis. If you notice the beginning signs of rheumatoid arthritis in your feet, it is strongly advised that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can properly evaluate and treat this condition.
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 Donald Manger, DPM of Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. 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 Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
A Broken Foot and a Sprained Ankle May Share the Same Symptoms
A broken foot often requires immediate medical attention. It generally causes severe pain and discomfort and can happen for a variety of reasons. These include a foot injury, twisting it well beyond its normal range of motion, or an accident. Symptoms include swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. If the foot is severely fractured, a bone may protrude from the skin, appearing to be displaced. A mildly broken foot may be confused with a sprain, because the two types of injuries share similar symptoms. Some patients hear a popping sound, which is often indicative of a broken foot, rather than a sprained ankle. A proper diagnosis can confirm a broken foot by having an X-ray taken. Treatment can begin by having a cast put on the affected foot, which is helpful in providing stability as the healing process occurs. Crutches are often recommended to use while the foot is in a cast, helping the patient to remain mobile. If you have broken your foot, please call a podiatrist’s office as quickly as possible for proper treatment techniques.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Donald Manger, DPM from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.
Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:
- Bruising
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Blue in color
- Numbness
- Cold
- Misshapen
- Cuts
- Deformities
Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.
Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
What Do Cracked Heels Look Like
During the summer months when many people are concerned about how their feet look in sandals, you might hear talk about a foot condition known as cracked heels. This condition, also known as heel fissures, can occur as a result of dry weather and old age, among other causes. Cracked heels can look quite unsightly. Typically, an individual with this condition will exhibit deep cracks at the heel, with calluses surrounding the affected area that might also crack. In a case of heel fissures, the heel might even change colors, being slightly red. In some cases, a person with cracked heels might even see bleeding at the heel. Obviously, none of these visual symptoms are desirable. Prevent or cure cracked heels today by making an appointment with a podiatrist.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Donald Manger, DPM from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.
How Do You Get Them?
Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.
Promote Healing
Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.
Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.
Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.
Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin.
Change in Diet
Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.
Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
How to Deal With Corns
A corn is a thickened area of the skin, usually on the foot, that is the result of friction from the inside of a shoe. It can have a soft or hard inner core. Hard corns generally form on top of a toe, while soft corns develop between the toes. Corns on the feet are formed from repeated pressure, which causes the skin to die and harden. A hard corn is tough and thick, often with a hard center that can cause pain if pressure, or friction, is prolonged. Moisture between the toes allows corns to soften. A soft corn looks more like an open sore, as the compressed toes rub against each other within the shoe. Changing footwear to give the toes and feet more room is the first way to avoid getting a corn. Several protective pads are available in retail stores. However, if a corn is causing extreme pain, it is a good idea to visit a podiatrist to have it examined and safely removed.
If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Donald Manger, DPM of Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:
- Well-fitting socks
- Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
- Shoes that offer support
Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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.
Handling Itchy Feet During Pregnancy
When a woman carries a baby to term during a pregnancy, she undergoes a litany of different bodily changes. Many of these changes can impact the feet. For example, during a pregnancy, a woman can experience sensations of itchiness on her feet. This itchiness can prove to be quite an annoyance for a pregnant woman, particularly during the nighttime when the sensations may interrupt sleep. Itchy feelings are primarily caused by hormonal skin changes. There are a number of steps that a pregnant woman can take to mitigate the itchiness. For instance, a woman can wear socks that have a loose fit and are made of breathable materials. In particular, socks that are made of cotton or even wool can fit this description. To soothe itchy feet, a pregnant woman can apply a good moisturizer on the feet. Additionally, giving the feet an oatmeal bath could help soothe itchiness. Lastly, massaging the feet could minimize itching sensations. Be sure to contact your podiatrist about these techniques and others to ensure that you are doing what is best for your own feet. If you are pregnant, contact a podiatrist today who can help you to maintain proper foot care.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Donald Manger, DPM from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
- Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
- Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
- Wear shoes with good arch support
- Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
- Elevate feet if you experience swelling
- Massage your feet
- Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Various Reasons Why Bunions May Develop
The common foot condition known as a bunion can be unflattering. It is a deformity that affects approximately 30% of the population. A bunion is defined as a bony lump that forms on the side of the big toe. Research has shown it can develop from genetic reasons or possibly from the shoes that are worn. Many people wear shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in, and a bunion may start to form. Additional reasons why a bunion can occur include enduring an injury that may alter the structure of the foot. This may contribute to having damaged ligaments, and can cause a misalignment of the big toe. If the bunion is large, it may cause the big toe to shift toward the other toes, and this can cause pain and discomfort. Patients often need to purchase larger shoes that can accommodate the bunion, and it is suggested that medical attention is sought. There are several treatment options for bunions, and if you are afflicted with one, it is strongly advised that you contact a podiatrist who can guide you toward the best one for you.
If you are suffering from bunions, contact Donald Manger, DPM of Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
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 due to 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 worsen existing bunions
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 Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Iselin Disease
Iselin disease is an overuse injury resulting from repetitive pressure or tension on the growth center at the base of the 5th metatarsal. Running and jumping can put a great amount of pressure on the forefoot. This disease affects children and usually resolves itself once the growth plate fuses, which generally occurs around age 12 for girls and 14 for boys. It cannot occur in adults because the growth plate closes over and turns into the bone with skeletal maturity at approximately 16 years of age. If your child has foot pain and you think it might be Iselin disease, consult with a podiatrist for proper management of discomfort associated with this condition. A pediatric immobilization brace may be used to offload the growth plate and allow for healing so that your child may maintain their activity level.
Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Donald Manger, DPM of Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Rare Foot Conditions
The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist. Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care.
There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:
- Freiberg’s disease
- Kohler’s disease
- Maffucci syndrome
Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp.
Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.
Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking.
A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Exercises for Morton’s Neuroma
There are a number of foot conditions that can cause an individual pain and discomfort in the affected area. Morton’s neuroma is one of these conditions. Primarily affecting the ball of the feet, Morton’s neuroma occurs when the tissue around a toe nerve thickens, which can ultimately cause sharp pain and burning. It is most common for Morton’s neuroma to affect the nerve that is located between the third and fourth toes. Performing various exercises and stretches might potentially help you manage or mitigate pain from Morton’s neuroma. You might try an exercise known as the bottle roll, for instance. When in a seated position, slowly and gently roll a cool water bottle underneath one foot at a time. When the water bottle is cold, this can cool the foot and reduce any inflammation. Instead of using a water bottle, you might even consider using a ball that is about the size of a golf ball. Additionally, you might try what is known as the big toe stretch. When you are sitting, put an exercise band over the big toe and extend the leg outward. After pulling the band toward you, use the big toe to repeatedly push the toes forward, working against the pressure of the exercise band. Please contact a podiatrist if you have Morton’s neuroma. Such a professional will be best able to help you manage and treat your condition.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Donald Manger, DPM of Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.
What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?
- Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
- Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
- Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities
Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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!
Stretching Your Feet and Ankles
The feet and ankles are the foundation for stability and balance, and keeping them mobile and stable is imperative for proper functioning of the body. If we exercise our feet and ankles, we can help to prevent foot and ankle injuries and conditions. Strengthening and improving flexibility in the feet and ankles can provide a good foundation for stronger muscles and avoidance of pain. If overdone or pushed to discomfort, the opposite can happen. Exercise done wrong or pushed too far can create inflammation and torn tissues, which can restrict joint movement. Pain is an important sign to pay attention to when exercising the feet and ankles. It can let us know when we are doing something wrong or unsafe. One way of exercising the lower extremities is called Active Isolated Stretching, or AIS. This type of stretching focuses on active-assisted movements, where one moves into a stretch until the first sign of tension. With rhythmic, relaxed repetitions, there is increased blood flow and sedation of the nerves. For healthy feet and ankles, it is important to stretch the calves, ankles, and toes. As you practice exercising your feet and ankles, be gentle with yourself and ease into it. Never push so hard that you find you are holding your breath, and simply pay attention to how you feel. If you would like more information about proper exercise for your feet and ankles, consult with a podiatrist who is an expert in this area.
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Donald Manger, DPM from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Stretching the Feet
Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.
Great ways to stretch your feet:
- Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
- Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
- Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle
Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hamilton Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
