Arthritis affects People of All Ages
Arthritis is a common condition that affects people of all ages. It occurs when the tissue that lines the inside of joints becomes inflamed or swollen. Out of the 40 million people in the United States who have arthritis, 300,000 are children aged 16 and under. The cause of juvenile arthritis is currently unknown; however researchers believe that genetics may play a role in its development. Juvenile arthritis may have long term effects on children, so it is important to have them diagnosed early. Unfortunately, there is no cure for juvenile arthritis, but there are treatment options available to relieve inflammation.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment,contact Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Mangercan provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
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 one of our offices located in Hamilton Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about arthritic foot care.
Barefoot Running Could be Beneficial for Runners
Although there are many people who support barefoot running, there are also a lot of people who are against it. Many coaches believe that barefoot running plays a role in preventing injuries among runners. Not only could barefoot running help runners avoid injury, but it could also improve muscle strength. A recent study that has been conducted shows that barefoot running could have a positive impact on foot strike patterns.
Barefoot running has its own share of benefits and disadvantages. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Manger will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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 feel free to contact one of our offices located in Hamilton Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Davis Diagnosed with Plantar Fasciitis
Grizzlies center Deyonta Davis has been diagnosed with plantar fasciitis in his left foot. As a result, he is expected to miss the team’s first three summer league games in Las Vegas. The team announced that he hurt his foot during individual workouts in Memphis. Davis is going to be re-evaluated on a daily basis.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Mangerwill assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of 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 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.
Take Care of Your Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are a common foot problem, but they can be prevented. You should cut your toenails on a regular basis in order to avoid having ingrown toenails. When cutting your toenails, be sure to cut straight across and avoid cutting too short. If your ingrown toenail causes bleeding or discharge, you may need antibiotics.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Manger will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
· Bacterial infections
· Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
· Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
· Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
· Genetic predisposition
Prevention
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.
If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Hamilton Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Treat Your Cracked Heels
Cracked heels are caused by the occurrence of fissures in dry skin over the heels of feet. A sign of this condition is abnormally thick and dry skin around the heels of the feet. This condition may develop into cellulitis if it goes untreated. There are a variety of different causes for cracked heels. Prolonged standing on a very hard floor is a common cause of the condition; however this can be prevented by wearing footwear that is properly padded near the heel and sole areas. Eczema is another common cause of cracked heels, because it increases skin dryness. An increase in the amount of skin dryness makes the heels more likely to crack. In order to treat cracked heels, you should use a pumice stone to exfoliate the dead skin. You should also moisturize your feet daily with oil based moisturizers.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Manger will assess your injury and provide you with quality treatment.
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels are unappealing, and make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Not only may they look bad, but they 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 so it can stay on longer.
Moisturizers – applying it both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.
Pumice Stones – these remove dead skin, and then you can massage cream onto your foot. This way the cream will be absorbed. The skin needs to be exfoliated; therefore the outer layer dead skin needs removal.
Change in Diet
Eating healthy, with a well-balanced diet, will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to what kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements will also help with skin tissue.
Most importantly seek a health professional for foot care if something is wrong or doesn’t seem to be working. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices in Hamilton Township, NJ.. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about cracked heels.
Certain Foot Problems can hint toward Systemic Issues
The feet, being the base of the body, may have a larger effect on the entire body than people expect. Certain foot conditions may in fact be a sign of systemic disease in other parts of the body. Spoon-shaped or concaved toenails, otherwise known as koilonychias, are mainly associated with nutritional deficiencies but can also be a sign of genetic disorders, circulatory problems, autoimmune diseases, and musculoskeletal conditions. Toenails that are various colors or textures can also suggest other systemic problems.
When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Manger will provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.
Systemic Diseases of the Feet
Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable. Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.
Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.
Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.
Diabetes of the Feet
Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.
Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of 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.
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Tips for Running Safely and Preventing Injuries
Many people do not realize that the type of sneakers they wear while exercising can potentially cause injury. Approximately half of the people who take up running or another new exercisesustain injuries because of the type of shoes they wear. Failure to wear appropriate footwear while exercising can result in nerve damage and tissue strains. It is crucial to find suitable sneakers for exercising in order to avoid long term damage.
Runners can still be prone to running injuries even with proper precautions. For more information about treatment, consult with Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Mangerwill assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.
What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.
Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber, this will help you gain better flexibility.
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 Affects 3.9% of Americans
Gouty arthritis is known as a condition which attacks the small joints in the body, such as the toes, caused by the buildup of uric acid crystal deposits. The “prevalence of gout worldwide is one to four percent, and in the U.S. specifically, 3.9 percent of Americans are affected by gout.” Gout leads to symptoms of pain, redness, swelling, and irritation. Controlling symptoms of gouty arthritis involves limiting foods high in uric acid.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Manger will treat 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 Hamilton Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Blisters Form to Protect our Damaged Skin
Blisters can develop in response to repeated friction or pressure against the skin, leading to the layers of skin separating from each other. Fluid then begins filling the irritated area, forming a blister. When treating your blisters, avoid using methods such as the application of petroleum jelly and opt for paper-taping, a newer method used by athletes and runners to protect their feet. Paper tape can be described as “a thin, inexpensive tape made of paper, sold as surgical or medical tape.” This new paper tape prevents rubbing and friction on the feet, successfully fighting against the onset of blisters.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, consult with Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Manger will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
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 podiatrist.
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.
Foot Amputations, a Severe Complication of Diabetes
If you’re a diabetic patient, you may know that taking proper care of your feet is an extremely important routine. Because of “the large amount of sugar in the body there are changes in peripheral nerves, blood vessels, skin and soft tissues, bones and joints,” leading to the risk of infections and ulcers developing on the feet. “Up to 15% of people with diabetes have the risk of developing ulcers on the feet,” which can eventually lead to surgical amputation if not treated immediately.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet consult with Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Manger will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
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 Hamilton Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Rory Laird Missed Games as he was Recovering from a Broken Toe
Crows defender Rory Laird suffered a broken toe injury and was on recovery status for three weeks. Scans of his foot revealed that his toe was fractured. Laird had to miss Adelaide’s games against the Western Bulldogs and Geelong. “It’s unfortunate for both Rory and the club, and we expect him to miss two to three weeks as he recovers,” said Adelaide general manager of high performance Brett Burton.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, consult with Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Manger will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
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 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.
Minimalist Shoes Mimic the Feeling of Running Barefoot
If you’re interested in trying out barefoot running, opt for starting out with minimalist shoes first. Minimalist shoes usually have flat or thin soles, which give the impression of a barefoot feeling. These shoes can potentially help promote good foot form, strengthen your feet, and reduce the risk of injury as our feet become stronger. Running in a natural form is popular among athletes, especially when training or exercising on rugged terrain.
Barefoot running has its own share of benefits and disadvantages. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, consult with Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Manger will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
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 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.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Linked to Overall Body Health
Rheumatoid arthritis is known as an autoimmune chronic disease that causes irritation and disability in the joints, and which may be caused by genetic and health condition factors. Rheumatoid arthritis is also found to be more common among women than in men. The disease may be linked to overall body health, with a person’s diet affecting the risk of developing the disease. Smoking is also suggested to increase the risk of the progression of rheumatoid arthritis.
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, consult with Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Manger 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 & 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.
Various Complications Arise from Habitual High Heel Wear
According to podiatrist Lorcan O’Donaile, wearing high heels is extremely damaging to the feet, as they increase the weight underneath the ball of the foot and restrict the ankles. The calves are also tightened and shortened as the body’s posture is shifted. This can lead to lower back, neck, and shoulder pain. Walking in high heels is the most damaging for both your feet and your back. High heels not only shift the entire biomechanics of your feet and gait, but they can also lead to bunion deformities.
High heels have a history for causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet consult with Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Manger will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because their style and societal appeal. Despite this, they can still 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. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available.
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.
