Bunions, those bony protrusions at the base of the big toe, can escalate from a minor inconvenience to a significant source of pain and discomfort over time. Fortunately, bunion surgery can help to alleviate pain and restore proper alignment of the big toe. Success rates hover around 85%, but perfect alignment and painlessness aren't guaranteed. Reduced joint flexibility, stiffness, and minor foot shortening are potential outcomes. Several surgery types exist, tailored to the severity of the bunion. Osteotomy, a common approach, involves cutting and realigning the bone. Soft tissue realignment may accompany this procedure. Arthrodesis fuses bones in the big toe joint, an option for severe deformities or advanced joint deterioration. Excision arthroplasty removes the bunion and a section of bone, creating a healing false joint. Following surgery, swelling is to be expected for several months. Elevation, crutches, and specially designed shoes will be essential during recovery, which may last approximately six months. If you have a bunion that is impeding you from performing your daily activities, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can recommend the best treatment options for you.
If you are suffering from bunions, contact the podiatrists of The Foot & Ankle Center of New Jersey. Our doctors 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?
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Paramus, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
A broken ankle, a distressing and often unexpected injury, can significantly disrupt daily life. Numerous factors can lead to this type of fracture, reminding us of the intricate vulnerability of our feet. Accidents and falls are among the primary culprits, especially when landing awkwardly or with force. High impact sports and activities, marked by sudden twists or impacts, also pose a risk. Osteoporosis is a medical condition that can weaken bones, making them more susceptible to fractures from even minor impacts. Recognizing these triggers is crucial for preventing broken ankles. Employing protective gear, wearing proper footwear, and implementing cautious movement can collectively contribute to foot safety. A broken ankle is painful and generally happens immediately. If you have endured this type of injury, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat a broken ankle.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact the podiatrists from The Foot & Ankle Center of New Jersey. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Paramus, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Maintaining good circulation is vital for overall health. Symptoms often noticed in the feet include a numbing or tingling sensation and they may feel cold. There are methods that can be implemented that may help to prevent poor circulation naturally. First, stay active and engage in regular exercise to promote blood flow. Avoid sitting or standing for prolonged periods of time, and take short walks or stretch breaks. Maintain a healthy diet, including foods rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients. Quit smoking, as it constricts blood vessels and hinders circulation. Manage stress through relaxation techniques, like meditation or yoga. Opt for compression socks or stockings to improve blood flow in the legs. Keep your body hydrated and avoid excessive alcohol consumption. Ensure proper posture and avoid crossing your legs when sitting. Finally, avoid tight-fitting clothing that can restrict blood flow. If you notice signs of poor circulation in your feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.
While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact the podiatrists of The Foot & Ankle Center of New Jersey. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Poor Circulation in the Feet
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.
Symptoms
Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:
Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.
As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Paramus, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Gout is a painful arthritis caused by uric acid buildup in the body, leading to joint redness, tenderness, and severe pain. It commonly affects the feet and specifically the big toe, but can impact other joints, like the ankles, elbows, wrists, fingers, and knees. Symptoms include intense joint pain, joint inflammation, and limited range of movement. Gout is typically more common in individuals with high levels of uric acid in their bodies. Several factors contribute to this condition, including obesity, family history of gout, being male, consuming foods higher in purines, and specific medical conditions like untreated high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart and kidney diseases. Diagnosing gout involves a physical examination and may include tests such as uric acid blood tests and joint aspiration to check for urate crystals. Adopting a healthy diet, maintaining a proper body weight to prevent obesity, and making lifestyle changes like reducing alcohol and sweetened beverage consumption can be beneficial in managing gout effectively. If you suspect you have gout, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact the podiatrists from The Foot & Ankle Center of New Jersey. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.
Symptoms
Risk Factors
Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Paramus, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.
The strong band of tissue that runs from the calf muscles to the heel bone is known as the Achilles tendon. When this tendon is overused, which is frequent among runners, dancers, and other athletes, it can become inflamed and extremely painful. This condition is called Achilles tendinopathy. The top cause of Achilles tendinopathy is overuse, which tears or stretches the tendon and causes inflammation. Other causes include certain types of arthritis, flat feet, and overpronation. In addition, wearing shoes that lack adequate support, being overweight, and taking certain antibiotics may increase the likelihood of developing Achilles tendinopathy. There are a number of treatments available for Achilles tendinopathy, but healing time depends on the severity of the injury. In some cases, surgery is required. There are several ways to prevent tendinopathy, including stretching exercises and warmup and cool-down routines. Wearing proper footwear is another way to help prevent this injury. For more information, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact the podiatrists of The Foot & Ankle Center of New Jersey. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
Rupture Symptoms
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Paramus, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
