Items filtered by date: June 2018

Monday, 25 June 2018 00:00

Types of Foot and Ankle Injuries

The ankle is considered to be one of the more stable joints in the body when compared to the body’s numerous other joints. When we walk, run, or jump, the ankle endures approximately one and a half times the weight of the body, and may become at risk for possible serious injury, while engaging in high-impact activities. Common ankle afflictions may include sprains, strains, Achilles tendon injuries, or fractures, which may all produce a significant amount of pain and discomfort. An acute injury may be experienced while stepping down from a curb before realizing it’s there. This occurs as a result of the ankle moving beyond its normal range of motion, which is typically caused by a severe twisting motion. A condition that is referred to as an ankle strain may develop as a result of repeated overuse of the ankle, and this is common among certain types of athletes. Please consult with a podiatrist for additional information about how foot and ankle injuries can be treated.

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with Dr. Ronald Sheppard from Warren-Watchung Podiatry Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

  • Broken bones
  • Muscle strains
  • Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
  • Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

  • Bruising
  • Inflammation/ Swelling
  • Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Marlboro and Watchung, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Foot and Ankle Trauma

When a baby is born, their feet are padded and very flexible. Research has shown that toddlers have flat feet until they begin to walk, which typically happens between 8 and 18 months of age. When walking begins, it’s important for the child to wear a shoe with a soft sole which may enable them to feel the ground as they learn to walk. A stronger shoe can be introduced once they consistently walk and have improved muscle strength. When fitted for shoes, it’s beneficial to measure the length and width of the foot which can assist in choosing the correct shoe size. Research has shown this process needs to be repeated every few months as a result of the rapid growth that most children experience. Please schedule a consultation with a podiatrist if you find your child is walking “pigeon-toed” or noticing if the feet are turning outward.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Ronald Sheppard of Warren-Watchung Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

  • Make sure their shoes fit properly
  • Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
  • Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
  • Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
  • Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
  • Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
  • Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
  • Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Marlboro and Watchung, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about What to Do to Keep Your Child’s Feet Healthy
Monday, 11 June 2018 00:00

What Causes Athlete’s Foot?

Athletes foot is a condition that typically affects the skin between the toes. A fungal infection is generally the cause of this ailment, and in severe cases, it may cause the skin to crack and bleed. The skin may appear to be warm when touched, and pain is often experienced. This type of infection is contagious and is typically found in public places where people walk barefoot. Pools, showers and changing rooms are among the places where this fungus may live and it’s suggested to wear appropriate shoes while in these areas. If your immune system is weak as a result of other conditions, you may be more susceptible to being afflicted with this ailment. Research has shown that it’s beneficial to consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis and treat athlete’s foot.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Ronald Sheppard from Warren-Watchung Podiatry Center.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

  • Hydrate your feet by using lotion
  • Exfoliate
  • Buff off nails
  • Use of anti-fungal products
  • Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Marlboro and Watchung, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Athlete's Foot

As the aging process progresses, it may be difficult for elderly people to avoid blisters and infections concerning the feet. This may be a result of poor vision which may hinder proper foot care management. Many elderly people may benefit by having a caregiver trim the toenails to ensure they are cut to a proper length. Research has shown any tools that are used should be cleaned and sanitized, which is often accomplished by using boiling water. These may include nail clippers and metal files. Taking advantage of a foot bath may aid in helping cracked skin feel more comfortable, followed by utilizing a good moisturizer to maintain softness in the skin. Measuring the feet prior to purchasing shoes is recommended for a comfortable fit in addition to wearing clean and dry socks. Please consider speaking with a podiatrist if you would like additional information on how to properly care for elderly feet.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Ronald Sheppard from Warren-Watchung Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

  • Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
  • Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
  • Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
  • Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
  • Shoes that don’t fit properly
  • Pressure sores
  • Loss of circulation in legs & feet
  • Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Marlboro and Watchung, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Elderly and their Feet

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