Items filtered by date: September 2022

Tuesday, 27 September 2022 00:00

Diagnosing Sesamoiditis

Many people may not know that there are two pea-shaped bones located under the big toe that are known as the sesamoids. When the tendons that are attached to these bones become inflamed from overuse of the front of the foot, a condition known as sesamoiditis can occur. Individuals with sesamoiditis can experience pain in the ball of their feet where the affected sesamoids are located, and they might find it difficult to point their toes. There are several things that a medical professional might do to diagnose a case of sesamoiditis. First, a physical examination will be performed on the affected area, analyzing the movement and flexibility of the big toe. If sesamoiditis is likely in a patient, then an X-ray might be performed to get a better sense of the state of the patient’s bones. In some cases, bone scans might be even more helpful, as these images make more things visible than X-rays. If you have sesamoiditis, do not hesitate to consult with a podiatrist.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. Ronald Sheppard of Warren-Watchung Podiatry Center. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

  • Sudden increase in activity
  • Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
  • Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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.

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Tuesday, 20 September 2022 00:00

Shockwave Therapy May Help Plantar Fasciitis

The plantar fascia is located on the bottom of the foot, and connects the heel to the toes. Inflammation of the plantar fascia can cause a condition that is known as plantar fasciitis which may happen from repeated stress as a result of participating in running and jumping activities. It can affect the heel, and it is often difficult to walk. There is a treatment method that is referred to as shockwave therapy, and it may be useful in healing plantar fasciitis. It is performed by administering shockwaves to the affected area, which is typically painless. Patients are generally required to undergo three to five treatments, and relief may be found soon after it begins. Research has indicated results may be seen more quickly when it is diagnosed in the beginning stages. If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine if this is an effective form of treatment for you.

Shockwave therapy is a treatment commonly used to treat various injuries and conditions, particularly plantar fasciitis in the feet. To learn more, consult with 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.

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.

Who Benefits from Shockwave?

Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.

Fast and Easy

The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, addressing the source of the problem and allowing treatment to last for a long time.

Treatment & Recovery Time

Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia. This treatment is a better option to surgery, since it is proven safe.

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 Shockwave Therapy
Monday, 19 September 2022 00:00

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.

Tuesday, 13 September 2022 00:00

Complications of Corns

Corns are hardened spots of skin that can develop on the feet in response to pressure or friction. Specifically, corns develop on, near, and between the toes. Sometimes, corns can grow on an individual’s feet because their shoes are ill-fitting and too tight, causing the material to repeatedly rub up against the foot. This creates the kind of friction that causes corns. There are several complications associated with this particular foot affliction to be aware of. First, in severe cases of corns, the individual may experience a sensation of pain at the affected area. Having a particularly troublesome corn could also negatively impact your gait and capacity to walk or run. Severe cases of corns, if left unaddressed and untreated, might also lead to infections. Healthy tissues in and around the affected area on the foot could also be harmed or damaged by corns. If you have corns on your feet, contact a podiatrist and schedule an appointment today. This foot specialist can help you try to avoid these complications.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Ronald Sheppard of Warren-Watchung Podiatry Center. 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 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 Corns: What Are They, and How Do You Get Rid of Them
Wednesday, 07 September 2022 00:00

The Heel, Arch, and Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition that can produce severe pain and discomfort. It occurs as a result of an inflamed plantar fascia, which is the band of tissue that is found on the bottom of the foot. The function of the plantar fascia is to connect the toes to the heels, in addition to absorbing shock that comes from standing, walking, and running. There are several reasons why it can become damaged or inflamed. These can include wearing shoes that do not have adequate support for the overall foot, or possibly from standing on hard surfaces for most of the day. The pain is felt in the heel and arch area, and wearing custom-made orthotics may possibly help the severity of the pain. Some mild relief methods may include wearing shoes that are comfortable and fit correctly, and frequently performing foot stretches and low-impact exercises. Additionally, it is beneficial to replace shoes once they show significant wear and tear. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose plantar fasciitis, and offer correct treatment options to you. 

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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.

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 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 Plantar Fasciitis

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