A broken ankle, which is also referred to as a fractured ankle, can occur as a result of a fall, or if an injury has happened. The ankle is divided into three categories, and any one or more of these bones can become fractured. The larger bone in the lower leg is called the tibia, and the fibula refers to the smaller bone in the lower half of the leg.The bone that is located between the heel bone, the tibia and the fibula is known as the talus. A broken ankle is often noticeable and there is generally pain and discomfort that can accompany it. Patients can find it difficult to walk on, and there may be bruising and swelling. Many broken ankles can be treated by wearing a cast or a boot, and this can provide the stability that is needed as the healing process occurs. A protruding ankle bone often indicates a severely broken ankle, and surgery may be necessary that may restore normal functioning. If you have broken your ankle, please speak to a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can effectively diagnose and treat it.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, 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.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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

The joints in the feet can be negatively affected by the autoimmune condition known as rheumatoid arthritis. This is often referred to as RA, which is the abbreviation. The common symptoms that are often associated with this type of arthritis can include swelling, pain, and a limited range of motion. Many patients have difficulty in completing daily activities as a result of the intense pain and this can affect more than the joints. The cartilage, ligaments, and tendons may become painful and can progress quickly. Some of the foot issues that may develop from RA are bunions, claw toes, and flattened arches. Some people can have their circulation affected and this can lead to nerve damage. RA can become triggered by an existing infection, stress, and lack of sleep. This condition can produce serious complications to the feet and it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage rheumatoid arthritis.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact the foot specialists of Podiatry Associates of Belleville. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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.

When one has flat feet, there are no (or slight) arches in the feet, and the entire sole appears to touch the ground when one is standing. Flat feet can develop if the arch does not develop normally during childhood, from natural wear and tear, or from an injury. This is a common condition that may be painless or cause the feet to tire easily and feel painful. If this happens, it is because the connecting ligaments and muscles of the foot are strained. The feet might tire easily. Rarely, it will lead to problems with moving the feet. However, even if this condition does not cause foot pain, it can contribute to ankle, knee, and back problems from a change in the leg’s alignment. Some children can develop flexible flat feet, and this is when the arch can be seen when the child stands on tiptoes or sits, but when standing, the arch disappears. Since other conditions can cause similar pain as with flat feet, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment. 

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact the foot specialists from Podiatry Associates of Belleville. Our doctors 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 Belleville, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The Achilles tendon is a large muscle that is located in the back bottom portion of the leg that connects the heel to the calf muscles. It can become inflamed from an injury and is often painful. Achilles tendinitis can occur from overuse and there are two categories of this type of injury. Noninsertional Achilles tendinitis may be more prevalent among younger people who are active and it targets the middle of the tendon as small tears develop. The lower portion of the tendon can be affected by insertional Achilles tendinitis, where it attaches to the heel bone. People who are not physically active may be more prone to getting this type of injury. The symptoms of either type of Achilles tendon injury can include heel pain and limited range of motion, as well as feeling stiff or swollen. If you have endured an Achilles tendon injury, please seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can offer you treatment options that are right for you.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact the foot specialists of Podiatry Associates of Belleville. 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

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

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:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Belleville, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.