Tuesday, 12 March 2024 00:00

Our feet, the unsung heroes of our daily activities, are intricate structures that enable mobility and support our entire body weight. Comprising numerous bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons, the feet work in unison to provide stability, balance, and the ability to walk, run, and stand. Maintaining optimal foot health is essential for overall well-being. To keep our feet in top condition, it is important to choose footwear that provides proper arch support and cushioning, and fits well. Regularly cleaning and inspecting the feet, especially between the toes, can help to prevent infections. Stretching exercises promote flexibility while strengthening exercises help maintain the foot's arch and stability. Alternating shoe choices, wearing moisture-wicking socks, and allowing feet to breathe can prevent issues like fungal infections. Paying attention to any discomfort or pain and seeking timely medical attention ensures prompt intervention. By understanding the marvel of how our feet function and adopting simple yet effective tips, we can prioritize our health and continue to move through life with comfort and ease. If you are seeking additional information about foot function and care, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist.

If you have any concerns about your feet, 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.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

  • Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
  • In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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.

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Tuesday, 05 March 2024 00:00

Cracked heels, a common foot ailment, can be particularly concerning for individuals with diabetes. Diabetes can lead to poor circulation and nerve damage, reducing the skin's ability to stay moisturized and heal properly. As a result, the skin around the heels becomes dry and thickened, prone to cracking and fissures. Cracked heels provide entry points for bacteria, increasing the risk of infection, particularly for those with compromised immune systems. Diabetic neuropathy can also diminish sensation in the feet, making it challenging to detect and address foot problems promptly. Left untreated, cracked heels can progress to serious complications such as foot ulcers, infections, and amputation in severe cases. There are essential foot care tips that can help to prevent cracked heels. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you seek guidance from a podiatrist who can help you manage diabetes-related foot issues and minimize the risk of complications. 

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, 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.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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.

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Friday, 01 March 2024 00:00

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Tuesday, 27 February 2024 00:00

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is an autoimmune disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, causing chronic inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the joints. When it comes to RA, the feet are often overlooked despite being commonly affected. In fact, up to 90 percent of individuals with RA will experience symptoms in their feet and ankles at some point. This condition can lead to deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, and claw toes, as well as the formation of painful nodules called rheumatoid nodules. Additionally, RA can erode the cartilage and bone within the joints, resulting in severe pain and difficulty walking. Foot pain and deformities can significantly impair mobility and diminish quality of life for individuals with RA. Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment are essential for managing symptoms and preventing irreversible damage to the joints. If your feet are showing signs of rheumatoid arthritis, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can provide you with effective relief measures.

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.

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