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Point Pleasant

April 2023

Wednesday, 26 April 2023 00:00

Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

Tuesday, 25 April 2023 00:00

Early Signs of Arthritis

Joint pain may be common for those who participate in high intensity sports. It can be caused by injury to muscles, tendons, and ligaments. However, continued pain may be a sign that arthritis is developing. Though it is more common for one to get arthritis with age, it is also something that can gradually develop if repeated injuries happen and proper healing does not take place. There are different types of arthritis, and they fall into the two main categories known as inflammatory arthritis and osteoarthritis. Inflammatory arthritis results from a systemic disease where the body’s immune system attacks its own joints and tissues. Rheumatoid arthritis is an example of inflammatory arthritis, and is a symmetrical problem that affects both sides of the body at the same time. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative ailment that comes from wear and tear on joints over time. This is a typical type of arthritis that can affect the big toe. If you are experiencing joint pain in your feet, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can properly diagnose whether arthritis is the cause and offer treatment options.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, 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.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to 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 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 our office located in Point Pleasant, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Arthritic Foot Care
Tuesday, 18 April 2023 00:00

Ankle Pain Without Injury

One can have ankle pain even if they have not injured their ankle. This can occur from some underlying health conditions, such as autoimmune diseases or arthritis, and from unrelated foot ailments. Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, is when the cartilage between two bones erodes over time. Without cartilage in the ankle, the bones rub together and there can be pain and stiffness. Other types of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, reactive arthritis, and gout are other conditions that can cause inflammation and leave the ankle feeling tender as well. Lupus and scleroderma are examples of autoimmune diseases that can have the same side effects. Of course, other foot and ankle ailments, like fallen arches and Achilles tendonitis can also cause ankle pain. Treatment depends on the root cause of the ankle pain. If you have such pain and there is no obvious reason for it, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a correct diagnosis and care regime.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle 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.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

  • Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
  • Ankle sprains
  • Broken ankles
  • Achilles tendinitis
  • Achilles tendon rupture
  • Stress fractures
  • Bursitis
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome
  • Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and 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.

 

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Tuesday, 11 April 2023 00:00

Flat Feet in Children

Flat feet is a condition of the foot in which the patient does not present an arch. As a result, the entire foot rests flush against the ground. Children are one group that can be affected by flat feet. Importantly, flat feet can be normal for infants and young children. This is because a young infant’s feet are still growing and developing. Particularly, the foot muscles and soft tissues are still stiffening. If, as your child ages, an arch forms on their feet yet they subsequently experience flat feet and it begins to diminish their quality of life, then it is suggested that they are under the care of a podiatrist. A podiatrist specializes in treating the health of the feet, and they will be able to provide any treatment that your child might potentially need for their flat feet.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, 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.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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 How to Care for Your Child's Feet
Wednesday, 05 April 2023 00:00

Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

Tuesday, 04 April 2023 00:00

Prevent the Fear of Falling

Recent studies have shown that falling episodes in seniors may be more prevalent in the fall and winter months. This may be a result of the changes the body undergoes in this type of weather, and people may not be able to react in time to prevent a fall from occurring. Falling is said to be a leading cause for a variety of injuries in people over 65 years old. Many seniors who fall can develop a fear of falling, which may lead to limiting everyday activities. This can limit mobility, and physical activity may be stopped. It is beneficial to learn about effective fall prevention methods to restore mobility and enjoyment in daily activities. These can include improving lighting in the household and removing worn rugs from the steps. Additionally, it is important to have routine physical and eye examinations to update existing medication and eyeglasses. Falling can impact the feet, and it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can inform you of practical fall-prevention techniques for foot protection.

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 Dr. Alan J. Spector from Shore Podiatry. Our doctor 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:

  • Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
  • Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
  • Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
  • Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
  • Utilizing a walker or cane
  • Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
  • Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

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

Read more about Falls Prevention
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