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Monday, 27 June 2016 00:00

Gout Affects 3.9% of Americans

gout3Gouty 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.

Read more about Gout

blister6Blisters can develop in response to repeated friction or pressure against the skin, leading to the layers of skin separating from each other. Fluid then begins filling the irritated area, forming a blister. When treating your blisters, avoid using methods such as the application of petroleum jelly and opt for paper-taping, a newer method used by athletes and runners to protect their feet. Paper tape can be described as “a thin, inexpensive tape made of paper, sold as surgical or medical tape.” This new paper tape prevents rubbing and friction on the feet, successfully fighting against the onset of blisters.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, consult with Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Manger will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often 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.

How do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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 blisters on the feet.

toenail-fungus7If you’re a diabetic patient, you may know that taking proper care of your feet is an extremely important routine. Because of “the large amount of sugar in the body there are changes in  peripheral nerves, blood vessels, skin and soft tissues, bones and joints,” leading to the risk of infections and ulcers developing on the feet. “Up to 15% of people with diabetes have the risk of developing ulcers on the feet,” which can eventually lead to surgical amputation if not treated immediately.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet consult with Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Manger will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

  • Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
  • Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
  • Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels because blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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 Diabetic Foot Care

broken-toe3Crows defender Rory Laird suffered a broken toe injury and was on recovery status for three weeks. Scans of his foot revealed that his toe was fractured. Laird had to miss Adelaide’s games against the Western Bulldogs and Geelong. “It’s unfortunate for both Rory and the club, and we expect him to miss two to three weeks as he recovers,” said Adelaide general manager of high performance Brett Burton.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, consult with Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Manger will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • throbbing pain
  • swelling
  • bruising on the skin and toenail
  • the inability to move the toe
  • toe appears crooked or disfigured
  • tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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 a broken toe.

barefoot-running7If you’re interested in trying out barefoot running, opt for starting out with minimalist shoes first. Minimalist shoes usually have flat or thin soles, which give the impression of a barefoot feeling. These shoes can potentially help promote good foot form, strengthen your feet, and reduce the risk of injury as our feet become stronger. Running in a natural form is popular among athletes, especially when training or exercising on rugged terrain.

Barefoot running has its own share of benefits and disadvantages. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, consult with Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Manger will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

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 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 Barefoot Running

Arthritis5Rheumatoid arthritis is known as an autoimmune chronic disease that causes irritation and disability in the joints, and which may be caused by genetic and health condition factors. Rheumatoid arthritis is also found to be more common among women than in men. The disease may be linked to overall body health, with a person’s diet affecting the risk of developing the disease. Smoking is also suggested to increase the risk of the progression of rheumatoid arthritis.

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, consult with Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Manger will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

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 office located in Hamilton Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more on Rheumatoid Arthritis

high-heel14According to podiatrist Lorcan O’Donaile, wearing high heels is extremely damaging to the feet, as they increase the weight underneath the ball of the foot and restrict the ankles. The calves are also tightened and shortened as the body’s posture is shifted. This can lead to lower back, neck, and shoulder pain. Walking in high heels is the most damaging for both your feet and your back. High heels not only shift the entire biomechanics of your feet and gait, but they can also lead to bunion deformities.

High heels have a history for causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet consult with Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Manger will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

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

What parts 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. Also, 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 Hamilton Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about the effects of high heels.

runners20Dolly Singh, founder of the company, Thesis Couture, “has invented a new high-tech heel that’s supposed to more evenly disperse women’s weight across the entire foot.” Through assessing biomechanics of the feet, Singh’s team “used structural engineering principles to redistribute the load on the ball and toes of the feet,” making the proposed heels more comfortable to wear. Singh’s design of high heels will help reduce damage to the feet in contrast to regular high-heel shoes.

Proper foot care is important for biomechanics of the feet, which incorporate the parts that manage the movement of your feet. If you have any concerns, 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.

A History of Biomechanics

- Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
- In 1974 biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination to the area.

Modern technology improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes providing a better understanding of podiatry concepts for biomechanics. Computers provide accurate determinations about the forces, moments and patterns of the foot and lower legs with the most important information captured.

Advances in materials and more awareness of biomechanics have developed enhanced corrective methods, offering further options for foot-related injuries. Understanding foot biomechanics can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot. 

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 Biomechanics of Podiatry

broken-ankle3James Harden of the Houston Rockets sprained his ankle in the game at Atlanta. Harden has not yet missed a game this season, and was expected to play against Oklahoma City Thunder. “Every day has been improving and getting better. I’ve been rehabbing and getting treatment every single day, icing it just doing things that hopefully will put me in position to play tonight,” Harden said of his ankle sprain injury.

Ankle sprains are common, but need immediate attention.If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, consult with Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Manger will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What are the Symptoms?

  • Mild to moderate bruising
  • Limited mobility
  • Swelling
  • Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits can aid in prevention

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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 ankle sprains.

stretching4There are many different muscles in the foot that control our movement. There exist the local, or intrinsic, muscles and the global muscles in our feet, both of which are essential to our everyday activities. Our feet’s arches are also necessary for maintaining proper foot function. Training and strengthening your feet are important in preventing foot injuries. Different exercises for your feet include the short foot exercise, toe splaying, big toe presses, leg swings, and calf raises.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, consult with Dr. Donald Manger from Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Dr. Manger will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you to gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important and often we forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate not to have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure its good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rise, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, also flexing the toes and involving the shins may help too. It is best to speak with your doctor regarding how to do these fitness steps and how often is right for you. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different and it varies from individual to individual to determine what should be done for you to maintain strength in your feet.

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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

Read more about exercising your feet.

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