There are 26 bones, 30 joints, and almost 100 muscles and ligaments in the feet, and there are a variety of issues that may affect these components and lead to foot pain. Pain in different areas of the foot can be indicative of different conditions. Pain in the arch of the foot usually indicates common conditions such as plantar fasciitis, tarsal tunnel syndrome, or tibialis posterior tendonitis. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia, which runs along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed. Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the tibial nerve gets squeezed or compressed where it goes through an opening in the ankle. Tibialis posterior tendonitis is an overuse injury that causes inflammation in the tibialis posterior tendon, which runs from inside the ankle to the bottom of the foot. Because of the variety of issues that lead to foot pain, patients who are struggling with foot pain should consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with the foot specialists from Podiatry Associates of Belleville. Our doctors 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 Belleville, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!

Falling is a common mishap that often affects people who are age 65 and older. More than half of recorded falls occur in the home. Additionally, falling episodes may increase after a patient has fallen once, and this may be a result of experiencing a lack of confidence and independence. It is important for elderly people to have regular physical examinations performed, which can help to monitor existing medications that might affect balance. Changes that are made in the home can include removing worn rugs, improving lighting, and installing safety fixtures in the shower and toilet area, such as grab bars, and non-slip bath mats. It is common for patients to endure a broken toe or ankle as the result of a fall. If you would like more information about the dangers of falling, as well as effective prevention techniques, please consult with a podiatrist.

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 the foot specialists from Podiatry Associates of Belleville. Our doctors 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 Belleville, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Sometimes an ankle sprain and an ankle strain can be difficult to differentiate. Ankle sprains occur when one or more ligaments in the affected ankle are overstretched or torn, usually during a single incident, like stepping off a curb and twisting your ankle. Ankle strains occur when the muscles or tendons of the affected ankle are repetitively damaged over time. Symptoms of an ankle sprain include localized pain, swelling, bruising, and limited mobility. At the time of the injury, you may also hear a popping sound or feel a popping sensation, and pain will usually be sudden and intense. Symptoms of an ankle strain include pain, swelling, redness, inflammation, muscle spasms, cramps, or weakness, and a limited range of motion. If you are suffering from ankle pain, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact the foot specialists from Podiatry Associates of Belleville. Our doctors 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 Belleville, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.