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Point Pleasant

February 2019

Monday, 18 February 2019 00:00

Three Degrees of Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries that people face, especially if they are involved in sports. Most ankle sprains are caused by the foot pointing downward then twisting inward. This unfortunate movement causes damage to the ligament on your outer ankle and results in immediate ankle pain. There are three degrees of ankle sprains, Grade I, Grade II, and Grade III. The higher the grade, the worse the sprain is. In a Grade I sprain only a few tissue fibers are torn, while in a Grade II sprain a larger amount is torn. A Grade III sprain describes a complete tear of the ligament and requires the most intensive treatment out of the three, along with a longer recovery period. If you think you have sprained your ankle, then it is highly recommended you consult with a podiatrist to learn about treatment options.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Alan J. Spector from Shore Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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

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 Point Pleasant, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Ankle Sprains
Monday, 11 February 2019 00:00

Different Types of Foot Pain

There are numerous causes and types of foot pain that many patients may experience over the course of their lifetimes. These may include fractures, sprains, injuries to the Achilles tendon, or objects that may have become imbedded. A type of arthritis which is referred to as gout can cause severe pain and discomfort, and this may last for several days. If shoes are worn that fit incorrectly, corns or blisters may develop, and this may cause pain while walking. Research has shown warts may cause discomfort, and this may be especially true if the wart grows into the heel of the foot, which is known as a plantar wart. If the nail should grow into the surrounding skin, tenderness and redness will often accompany this ailment. Additionally, a common foot condition that is known as plantar fasciitis may cause extreme pain and discomfort, and this may be a result of inflammation of the band of tissue that is located on the sole of the foot. It is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and begin correct treatments for any type of foot pain.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Alan J. Spector from Shore Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot 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 care needs.

Read more about Foot Pain
Monday, 04 February 2019 00:00

Relief for Your Bunions

Bunions are a common condition and are easy to spot. If there is a protrusion below your big toe or pinky toe, then it is most likely a bunion. Bunions can cause discomfort or pain, especially in the wrong shoes. Thankfully, there are a few simple ways to relieve some of the annoyances caused by bunions. Wearing a toe spacer can help realign your bones, but they should only be worn in moderation. Toe spacers act as braces for your toes but wearing them for too long can cause painful leg cramps. Changing your footwear can also impact your bunions. Shoes that are wider around the toes give bunions space and can relieve some of the pain associated with narrow toed shoes. Bunion massages may also help alleviate some pain. Bunions have trigger points that cause muscles to shorten and massaging the area can help to stretch the surrounding muscles. If you have a bunion and would like to learn more about alleviating uncomfortable symptoms, it is recommended you speak with a podiatrist to learn about the right treatment for you.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Alan J. Spector of Shore Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

  • Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
  • Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
  • Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
  • Orthotics or foot inserts
  • Surgery

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 care needs.

Read more about What Are Bunions?
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