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Point Pleasant

January 2018

Tuesday, 30 January 2018 00:00

Does My Child Have Flat Feet?

Flat feet is a condition that often refers to the arch appearing flat while walking or standing. It’s a natural condition commonly seen in infants and young children, and it will often correct itself as the foot becomes stronger. Occasional pain is associated with flat feet and is usually noticed while walking or running. The entire foot may feel pain and discomfort, or it may be in a specific area. It’s important to note if your child is experiencing these symptoms, as the condition may affect the structure of the growing foot. It’s possible that this condition may stem from underlying causes including certain forms of muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, or a predisposed inherited disorder. If the child is heavy in weight, obesity may be a contributing factor due to the additional weight placed on the feet. The condition typically does not require treatment unless the pain is affecting daily activities. If you think your child may have flat feet or is experiencing pain, please consider a consultation with a podiatrist.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Alan J. Spector from Shore Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

  • Pain around the heel or arch area
  • Trouble standing on the tip toe
  • Swelling around the inside of the ankle
  • Flat look to one or both feet
  • Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Read more about Flat Feet
Tuesday, 23 January 2018 00:00

Types of Heel Spurs

Heel spurs can be divided into two categories. Heel spur syndrome, often associated with a commonly known condition referred to as plantar fasciitis, is caused by a bony growth forming on the bottom of the heel. This type of heel spur may be a result of the ligaments and muscles becoming strained. Sports that involve running and jumping are often associated with causing this condition. Insertional Achilles tendonitis is the result of the spur developing at the back of the heel, where the Achilles tendon adheres to the bone. It may become inflamed and irritated, causing damage to a portion or all of the Achilles tendon. The spur may develop gradually and is generally not linked to an injury. This can be a painful condition in the heel and may cause discomfort in the bottom of the calf where it meets the tendon. A consultation with a podiatrist is recommended for treatment of either of these conditions.

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 Dr. Alan J. Spector from Shore Podiatry. Our doctor 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 Point Pleasant, NJ . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Read more about Heel Spurs
Tuesday, 16 January 2018 00:00

Why Do My Feet Hurt During Pregnancy?

Experiencing leg and foot pain during pregnancy is a common ailment most women suffer from, especially during the second and third trimester. Swollen feet, also referred to as edema, is often caused by excess blood and fluids accumulating in the tissues. Additionally, an increase in estrogen and other hormones may cause flat feet, causing the heels and arches to become sore. The excess weight acquired during pregnancy is also a factor, causing the ankles and feet to increase in size, possibly causing pain while walking. One preventative measure that may help a flat-footed condition is purchasing shoes with adequate arch support. Drinking plenty of water could help to flush out excess sodium, thereby reduce swelling in the feet.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Alan J. Spector from Shore Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

  • Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
  • Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
  • Wear shoes with good arch support
  • Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
  • Elevate feet if you experience swelling
  • Massage your feet
  • Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Read more about Pregnancy and Foot Health
Tuesday, 09 January 2018 00:00

Symptoms of Stress Fractures

A stress fracture typically occurs in the bottom of the leg or foot, due to repeated pressure incurred on the legs. Several types of athletes may suffer from this condition, although it’s common among long distance runners. Most of the symptoms include general achiness, pain in the affected area, tenderness, and swelling. There are a few different ways to diagnosis a stress fracture, including having an x-ray or bone scan performed. Treatment options include rest, and for severe pain, a plaster cast may be used. When the desired sport is resumed after healing, the legs should be stretched completely to avoid re-injury. If you think you may have a stress fracture in your foot or ankle, please consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment options.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Dr. Alan J. Spector from Shore Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

  • Runners                                  
  • People affected with Osteoporosis
  • Tennis or basketball players
  • Gymnasts
  • High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

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

Read more about Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
Tuesday, 02 January 2018 00:00

How to Deal with Corns and Calluses

Corns and calluses are areas where the skin has hardened, generally due to friction and pressure. This friction usually stems from footwear and socks; to help prevent them from forming, wear shoes that have enough room for your feet and aren’t cramped. Over-the-counter chemical peels can remove either corns or calluses at the risk of potentially damaging skin. Pumice stones can be used to remove corns and calluses but can also damage skin. If you are a diabetic, do not attempt to remove either one and instead see a podiatrist. Overall, podiatrists can treat corns and calluses in ways that do not risk harm to your feet.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Alan J. Spector of Shore Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

  • Well-fitting socks
  • Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
  • Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Read more about Corns: What Are They, and How Do You Get Rid of Them
Monday, 01 January 2018 00:00

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

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

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