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Tuesday, 21 February 2023

Employment Statistics for Podiatrists

Podiatrists are valued members of the medical community. Primarily specializing in maintaining the health of the feet, podiatrists know how to treat a wide variety of afflictions of the feet, including plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, cracked heels, and more. Certain areas of the country attract large numbers of podiatrists. For example, states such as New York, Florida, and California all have relatively high numbers of employed podiatrists practicing within the state. Many patients are curious to know more about the salary that podiatrists make. Interestingly, a podiatrist’s wage can vary significantly. Some of the top-paying states that employ podiatrists include Idaho, Minnesota, and Virginia. If you are interested in entering the field of podiatry, it is suggested that you talk to a practicing podiatrist for real-life advice.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

  • Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
  • Use innovative methods to treat conditions
  • Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
  • Correct walking patterns and balance
  • Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

 

Read more about What is a Podiatrist?
Thursday, 16 February 2023

Heel Pain Can Be Treated!

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek professional help and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

Many women enjoy wearing high heels for the style. Studies have even indicated that women who frequently wear high heels have sensed a renewed confidence level, in addition gaining a few inches in height. Despite these seemingly positive aspects, high heels can be uncomfortable, possibly causing painful foot conditions. These types of shoes come in various shapes and colors, and it is possible that stylish, yet comfortable high heels can be worn. This can be done by choosing a shoe that has a lower heel and a platform under the toe, which can be successful in giving the illusion of wearing a larger heel. The chunky heel, also known as the block heel, is a popular choice among women who wear high heels for the majority of the day. The feet often feel better in these types of shoes, and harmful foot conditions may be prevented. If you have questions about what type of high heel is best to wear for the health of the foot, please ask a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking. 

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of 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.  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 North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Blisters on the feet are common. Many people experience this uncomfortable condition as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Blisters are caused by excessive friction, and may easily become infected if not cared for properly. A blister is defined as a small area, which resembles a bubble that is filled with fluid and develops over the raw skin. It is the body’s natural method of protecting the area until new skin has formed, and will drain gradually when it is no longer needed. While the blister is intact, it is beneficial to wear a protective covering over it, which may help to keep it from draining prematurely. Blisters can form for other reasons, including existing medical conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, or they can occur as an allergic reaction to an insect bite. There are various types of bandages and prevention methods for blisters, and it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist if you would like to learn more about how to manage blisters on the feet.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Livingston Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can 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.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

  • Bubble of skin filled with fluid
  • Redness
  • Moderate to severe pain
  • Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Blisters
Tuesday, 31 January 2023

What Can Cause Cuboid Syndrome?

Patients who have pain on the outside of their feet may have developed cuboid syndrome. This condition can happen by incurring an injury that affects the cuboid bone. This bone is one of seven tarsal bones that connect to the toes and heel and contributes to a normal gait or walking style. Cuboid syndrome may be prevalent among runners and ballet dancers due to its repetitive impact. Additionally, it may occur in people who run on uneven surfaces or wear shoes that do not have adequate support. The common symptoms that are experienced can include ankle pain that is sudden or gradual, and the entire foot may be tender or sore. An X-ray can help rule out a fracture. Typically, the activity that caused the pain must be stopped and the affected foot should be elevated as often as possible. The healing process may be accelerated when non-impact exercises are performed as this can help strengthen the entire foot. If you have pain along the outside of your foot please consult a podiatrist who can determine if cuboid syndrome is the cause as well as provide effective treatment techniques.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

  • Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
  • Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
  • Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

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Tuesday, 24 January 2023

Rehab for a Broken Ankle

A broken or fractured ankle happens when one or more bones in the ankle joint break. The ankle joint comprises the tibia or shinbone, the fibula or calf bone, and the talus between these two bones. A broken ankle is painful. When one breaks their ankle, they might hear a snapping or grinding noise, and experience swelling, tenderness, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight and walking. If a bone is sticking out of the skin and is bleeding, it should be considered an emergency and requires immediate medical care. An examination and imaging test will be performed to determine the type of fracture. It will be essential to stay off your foot. Depending on the severity of the break, you will be directed to wear a walking boot, cast, or splint, and possibly to use crutches. Surgery might be necessary and physical therapy might be prescribed. Broken ankle recovery time is typically six to 12 weeks. If you think you have broken your ankle, visit a podiatrist for a correct diagnosis and treatment.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

  • Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
  •  Swelling around the area
  •  Bruising of the area
  • Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about All About Broken Ankles
Wednesday, 18 January 2023

Taking Care of Your Baby’s Feet

After your baby is born, taking care of their feet is of major importance. Experts agree that giving babies the freedom to move their legs and feet is how they develop muscle strength. Until the baby is ready to stand or walk, it is beneficial to let them go barefoot as often as possible. Any shoes or other foot coverings should be fitted properly and checked often as the baby's feet grow quickly. This includes onesies that may be too tight as the baby’s length increases. Keep your baby’s feet clean and dry. As your baby starts to stand or walk, be aware of any abnormalities that may be apparent, such as in-toeing or out-toeing. Once the baby starts walking outside the home, choosing the right shoes is important. It’s suggested that you measure your baby’s feet periodically to make sure their shoes are not too tight in the toes, too loose in the heel, or too narrow. For more guidance on proper foot care for your baby, please consult a podiatrist.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Livingston Footcare. Our doctors 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 our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Tuesday, 10 January 2023

Top Causes of Heel Pain in Seniors

As one ages, pain becomes a common theme, especially in the feet and back of the heel. The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, characterized by sharp pain and stiffness in the bottom of the heel. It also may extend under the arch and into the ball of the foot, which can then interfere with walking or carrying out daily activities. Another cause of heel pain is bursitis in the calcaneus, or heel bone, which connects with the plantar fascia. This inflammation causes throbbing pain, particularly after taking off your shoes. Pain increases with each step you take. Other sources of pain at the back of the heel include Achilles tendonitis and Achilles bursitis. Both of these conditions inhibit mobility and can make wearing shoes extremely uncomfortable. If you have pain in the bottom or back of the heel, please visit a podiatrist who can make a professional evaluation of the cause and provide treatment options. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Livingston Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

  • Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
  • Wearing non-supportive shoes
  • Weight change           
  • Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Heel Pain

Typically, certain individuals might have to take extra care in maintaining the health of their feet because they might be particularly susceptible to enduring afflictions of the feet. For example, individuals who suffer from diabetes are at an increased risk of developing conditions that negatively impact the feet. Additionally, senior citizens ought to be very diligent about protecting the health of their feet. There are a number of reasons for this. Notably, as an individual ages, the muscles in the feet might decrease in strength and vitality. As a result, the senior might have difficulty engaging in weight bearing activities. They might also experience a balance problems. This can make suffering falls or tumbles more likely. If you are a senior citizen that is experiencing foot problems, it is recommended that you reach out to a podiatrist. This foot specialist will be able to tailor their advice to you and help you address any foot problems you might have.  

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors 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 our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Contact Information

North Brunswick Office
602 Livingston Ave
North Brunswick, NJ 08902

Phone: (732) 246-1377
Fax: (732) 246-0858

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