Tips to Maintain Healthy Feet
You should always make sure to put in as much effort into taking care of your feet as you do your face. Your toenails should always be trimmed at the proper length in order to avoid getting dirt trapped underneath them. Another tip to maintain healthy feet is to make sure you drink plenty of water. Dehydration can lead to dry and cracked feet. However, if you have cracked heels you should make sure you are scrubbing your feet thoroughly in order to get remove dried skin. Pumice stones are often used to exfoliate the feet and can make your heels soft and smooth.
Every day foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Manger can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Every Day Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. After all, without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks. It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before, for example.
For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops.
Also, wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
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 and ankle needs.
Wear Proper Fitting Sneakers for Exercise
When you are about to exercise, you shouldn't wear old, worn-out shoes. A vast majority of foot issues develop as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. The most important things to look for when shoe shopping are proper fit and proper support. Shoes that have proper support will stabilize your feet and help prevent fatigue. You should also look for shoes that have cushioning. Investing in a good pair of shoes is important for your feet’s health because it will prevent injuries in the future.
Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Manger can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Proper Shoe Fitting
A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:
- Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
- Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
- Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
- Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity
Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes is vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Hamilton Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Flip Flops: Don’t Wear Them for Long Periods of Time!
Although flip-flops and trendy and comfortable, they are no good for everyday use. Flip-flops provide no support for the feet, which can make ankle sprains more likely to occur. Shoes with no arch support are not only harmful to the feet, but to the knees and ankles as well. The easiest way to avoid problems caused to flip-flops is to avoid wearing them all together. However, if you do choose to wear flip-flops you should not be wearing them for a long period of time.
Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles contact Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Manger will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
Flip-Flops and Feet
When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops. Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off, perfect for any summer beach goer. However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.
How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?
- Ankle problems
- Hip problems
- Lower back problems
- Pain in the balls of the feet
- Problems with foot arches
- Changes in the way you walk
Are there injuries associated with flip-flops?
Yes. Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections. Common injuries and ailments include:
- Sprained ankles
- Blisters
- Infections
- Cuts and Scrapes
I like wearing flip-flops, are there safe alternatives?
When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and are made of high quality materials that will support for your feet. These flip-flops will cost more, but will also last longer as a result.
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.
Cinnamon Could Treat Toenail Fungus
As cinnamon is a popular baking and decorative food ingredient, it can also be used for its antibacterial properties. Cinnamon can be used to treat conditions such as toenail fungus, where cinnamon “has the ability to stop drug-resistant yeast infections.” Cinnamon leaf oil in particular or cinnamon oil diluted in water can both be used to treat toenail fungus and other conditions such as Athlete’s foot.
For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Manger will attend to your foot and ankle needs.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a problem which affects many people and is hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating toenail fungus.
Antibiotics & Treatments
Lamisil – is the most commonly effective treatment for toenail fungus. It is available as an antibiotic Terbinafine tablet and cream. Terbinafine is a chemical component which kills fungal growth on the body. Applying regular doses will gradually kill the fungal growth. It is important to keep the area clean and air free.
Talcum powder – applying powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well
Alternative Treatments
There are always surgical procedures that are available for toenail fungus. Some people would like immediate quick removal of toenail fungus. Surgeons will be able to cut through and remove the growth using laser surgery. It is important not to try and remove it yourself. Once removed, your old shoes will need to be replaced to avoid reinfection.
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 and ankle needs.
Treatments for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis is usually diagnosed from the presence of other clinical symptoms. These symptoms may include: joint erosion, joint space narrowing, or periarticular osteopenia. There are different treatment options available for different levels of rheumatoid arthritis. Mild and moderate levels of RA can be treated with anti-inflammatories and disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. Patients with severe cases of the disease are treated with anti-tumor necrosis factor inhibitors, which are also known as anti-TNFs.
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, contact Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Mangercan provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
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 offices located in Hamilton Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more on Rheumatoid Arthritis
Athlete’s Foot one of the Most Common Foot Conditions
Athlete’s foot is one of the most common foot conditions a person could experience, as the condition itself is very contagious and can spread easily from person to person. The fungus behind Athlete’s foot typically grow in warm and damp environments; that is why it is important to wear flip-flops in public areas such as around the pool, the public shower, or a locker room. People who walk barefoot through such areas are more likely to contract the fungus and develop 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. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Mangerwill 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 helping you figure out which treatment options are best for you.
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 Athlete’s foot.
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.
Read more about Ingrown Toenails
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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.
Read more about Systemic Diseases of the Feet
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.
