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A form of therapy that is referred to as extracorporeal shock wave therapy, which is also known as ESWT, may possibly aid in helping patients with pain associated with tendons. People who experience plantar fasciitis may benefit from this type of treatment. It may promote healing and this may reduce some of the pain and discomfort that is typically associated with this condition. There are generally two forms of this type of treatment. One is referred to as a high-energy shock wave treatment, often including the therapy to be performed in one session. Some patients experience severe pain if this procedure is chosen, and may be administered anesthesia. Low-energy shock wave treatments may consist of being given in three or more sessions and typically causes mild or no pain. If you are experiencing tendon ailments, please speak with a podiatrist if you would like information about shock wave therapy.
Shockwave therapy is a treatment commonly used to treat various injuries and conditions, particularly plantar fasciitis in the feet. To learn more, consult with one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors 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 our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
If you are involved in sporting activities, you may know that incurring an ankle injury is one of the more common mishaps to occur. This type of injury typically involves the ligaments of the ankle to twist or tear, and this generally produces severe pain and discomfort. Athletes that are involved in sports that require sudden jumping or running in small spurts may be more susceptible in acquiring this type of injury. These may include activities such as football, volleyball or basketball, in addition to general running. If a fall or a severe twisting of the foot should take place, obvious symptoms and signs may include sudden pain, a loud “snap”, bruising, or swelling. It’s suggested to speak with a podiatrist as quickly as possible for correct treatment options and to learn about future injury prevention.
Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Common Injuries
The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.
Treatment
Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
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.
A heel spur is defined as a small bony protrusion that extends from the heel to the sole of the foot. Typical reasons for the condition to develop may be due to an injury, which may tear a portion of the heel bone, muscle, or ligament strains. Hard calcium deposits may develop under the heel, gradually forming a heel spur. People who are overweight, or those who participate in running and jumping activities may be more susceptible in developing heel spurs, in addition to those patients who wear shoes that do not fit correctly. There are several symptoms that may accompany this ailment, including pain that is felt in the heel for the majority of the day, inflammation, and tenderness. If you feel you may have a heel spur, it’s suggested to consult with a podiatrist, who can perform a proper diagnosis followed by advice on correct treatment options.
Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.
Heels Spurs
Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.
Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.
Pain
The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.
Treatments
There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
An ingrown toenail is a painful and uncomfortable foot condition that is a result of the toenail growing into the skin. If left untreated it may produce serious complications, and this may be especially true of diabetic patients. There may be several causes of this condition occurring, including trimming the toenails improperly, inherited genetic traits, and wearing shoes and socks that do not fit correctly. For some people, if they have incurred an injury such as stubbing or jamming their toe, they may observe that an ingrown toenail may begin to develop. There are noticeable symptoms that typically occur with this ailment, including the skin surrounding the toe appearing red, pain and discomfort that is experienced when pressure is applied to the toe, in addition to pus or blood oozing from the toe. If you feel you have developed an ingrown toenail, it’s advised to consult with a podiatrist, who can perform any treatment options that is recommended for you.
Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, 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.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.
Causes
You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.
Symptoms
Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.
Treatment
Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
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.
If bones in the feet are generally overused, stress fractures may develop as a result of this type of strain. The foot bones typically absorb the weight of the body and tiny fractures may occur with specific types of repetitive motion. These may include any kind of jumping, running, or power walking activities performed over an extended period of time. Some of the symptoms that may be associated with this condition may be severe pain and swelling, and can often be diagnosed by having an X-ray performed. Additional reasons for this condition to develop may be obesity, muscle weakness, or possible side effects that may weaken the bones from certain medications. If you feel you may have developed a stress fracture in any part of your foot, it’s advised to speak to a podiatrist as quickly as possible to determine what the best treatment options are for you.
Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, 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.
How Are They Caused?
Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon. Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.
Risk Factors
Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.
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.
If you have young children, you should be aware of the different foot problems and abnormalities they may encounter throughout development. Some of these common conditions include in-toeing, flat feet, out-toeing, and tiptoe walking. In-toeing and out-toeing are conditions in which a child’s foot turns inward or outward, respectively. However, these conditions tend to correct themselves when your child approaches the ages of 8 or 9. Tiptoe walking is common in children aged 3 and under, and it involves the child walking solely on their tiptoes. Nevertheless, children’s feet tend to grow rapidly before the age of 5. Consequently, it is important that you give your child proper fitting footwear to promote healthy feet development. If you have concerns about the development of your child’s feet, you may find it helpful to speak with 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
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.
When there are changes in the muscle structure, the big toe can become angled inwards toward the other toes. The result of this is called a bunion. Although bunions can be hereditary, a developing bunion can become worsened by poor-fitting shoes. Shoes that are either too high or too small can push the feet into awkward positions. If you are looking to avoid bunion development, you should wear shoes with a rounded toe and a wide foot. In the event that you have a severe bunion case, surgery may be required. If you are looking to treat your bunions, speak to your podiatrist for assistance.
If you are suffering from bunion pain, 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.
What Is a Bunion?
Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.
Causes
Symptoms
In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.
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 Bunions
If you choose to stand on your feet for the majority of the day, you may be susceptible to a skin condition that is known as cracked heels. This may typically occur as a result of the increased pressure the heels must endure, and may often produce considerable discomfort and pain. Research has shown there may be additional causes of cracked heels, including eczema, fungus conditions such as athlete’s foot, or a sunburn where the bottom of the feet are affected. In severely cracked heels, fissures may develop, which may be a gateway for germs to enter the body, possibly leading to infections. Patients may find moderate relief in eliminating the dry skin by utilizing a good moisturizer and spending less time standing on their feet. If athletes foot is the culprit, it may be treated by using an antifungal spray on your feet. If you experience cracked heels and it is affecting your daily activities, please consult with a podiatrist for information about what treatment options are best for you.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, 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.
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 North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
There are many elderly people who may experience foot conditions as they age. Recent research has shown there may be ways to prevent certain foot issues from occurring. The most common preventative measure may be to wear shoes that fit correctly, which may maintain maximum comfortability. It’s beneficial to measure the feet frequently, because they may widen with age. Additionally, many elderly people recognize the importance of avoiding poor circulation in the feet. This may be accomplished by stretching the feet frequently and walking regularly. Athletes foot may be a common foot ailment among seniors, and this may be avoided by wearing appropriate shoes in public showers and surrounding areas. If you are responsible for properly caring for an elder’s feet, please consult with a podiatrist for additional information.
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
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.
Research has shown the importance of developing muscle strength, which may aid in the prevention of falling. Strong muscles may help to maintain balance, and this may be achieved by incorporating walking into your daily routine, and eliminating sitting for extended periods of time. Steps may be taken to improve conditions in your home, including repairing broken steps, having brighter lighting or removing rugs that are loose. There are several hazards that may exist in the bathroom as a result of wet and slippery floors. It’s beneficial to use a non slip mat in the shower or bathtub in addition to utilizing a grab bar inside and outside of the shower. It’s important to have routine check-ups with your physician to monitor the condition of your eyes and ears, and this may bring more awareness to your immediate surroundings.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
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.
If you’ve ever had a plantar wart, you are most likely aware of the intense pain and tenderness that is typically experienced while walking. It is known to be caused by the human papillomavirus, which is also referred to as HPV. This particular type of virus typically affects the heel of the foot, and will grow inward as a result of the pressure the heel endures from everyday activities such as walking. The appearance can be a small area with thickened skin and may sometimes have black dots in the center. Treatment options may include utilizing liquid nitrogen that will freeze the wart off, salicylic acid cream, which may be used to burn the wart off, or specific medicine that is applied directly to the wart. It’s important to have a podiatrist properly diagnose your plantar wart to determine what the best course of treatment is for you.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
About Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.
While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.
Symptoms
Treatment
To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.
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.
If you have suffered a traumatic ankle injury that may result in swelling, severe pain and bruising, you may have broken your ankle. Most broken ankles occur from a fall, which causes one or more of the ankle bones to fracture. Occasionally, if jumping from an extended height occurs, the joints may undergo extreme flexing, which may cause a broken ankle. It’s important to take all weight off the ankle as soon as possible, and this is typically accomplished by immobilizing the ankle in a cast. Research has shown that six weeks is the average time a cast is worn, which typically allows ample time for the ankle bone to heal. For severe breaks, surgery may be necessary to adequately repair the bone, which may include inserting metal pins or plates. It’s beneficial to begin a rehabilitation program when the cast is removed. This may ensure proper mobility. Please speak to a podiatrist if you have broken your ankle for additional information.
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
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.
Gout is caused by an excess of uric acid that typically collects in the joints of the big toe. This commonly causes severe pain as a result of the inflammation around the big toe and surrounding areas. The majority of people who are afflicted with gout have a condition that is referred to as under-excretors, which is the inability to eliminate excess uric crystals from the urine. People who may be affected with this are diabetics and patients who may be obese or have heart disease. When certain types of foods are ingested, gout attacks may be more likely to occur. These may include shellfish, red meat or excessive alcohol. In severe and frequent gout attacks, small crystals may form in the kidneys, which may gradually increase in size to become kidney stones. If you have pain in your big toe and it appears to be red and tender, you may be experiencing a gout attack. It’s suggested to consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible to discuss the best treatment options for you.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Livingston Footcare. Our doctors 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 North Brunswick, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Andrelton Simmons of the Los Angeles Angels suffered a sprained ankle and may take a trip to the disabled list. When asked about the sprain he stated, “Nothing is broke, but I sprained it pretty decent.” He suffered the injury while coming down the dugout step in a game against the Royals. He fell down, got up, and then tried to walk it off to finish playing the game. Simmons is hopeful he will be able to move around after a few days but knows the disabled list is likely in his future.
Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, 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.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.
What Are the Symptoms?
Preventing a Sprain
Treatment of a Sprain
In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.
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.
