Having the right running shoe is paramount to reducing the chances of pain and injury. However, knowing how to find the shoe that best serves a runner’s needs can be confusing. Here are a few tips for simplifying the decision. The first consideration is knowing the type of running you will be doing and how often you will be doing it. Second, identify the terrain or environment you will be running in. For instance, trail shoes will have more grip and tread on the soles, while road shoes have flatter soles. Third, consider any previous running injuries you may have encountered and see a podiatrist who can examine your gait. Running shoes offer different types of cushioning, support, and stability based on the biomechanics of your feet. A podiatrist, who is a medically trained foot doctor, is a good source of information for anyone interested in finding the running shoe that will best serve your needs and protect your feet. If you are serious about running, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation. 

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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

Research has shown that walking is one of the best low-impact activities that can help people who have arthritis in their feet. This condition can affect people of all ages, and it may be more prevalent among the elderly. Walking can also be beneficial for overall physical health, and many patients notice the positive feeling that is associated with walking. There are three main categories of arthritis, and these are referred to as osteo, rheumatoid, and post-traumatic arthritis. Walking can strengthen the bones in the feet, and stress on the joints may be reduced. It is beneficial to start out slowly, and steps can be increased as time progresses. Patients who have arthritis in their feet may reap the benefits of walking by stretching first, drinking plenty of water, and wearing shoes that fit correctly. Additionally, the range of motion in the ankle may be improved when specific stretches are performed. If you would like more information about how walking may help arthritis in the feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you manage this painful condition.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors 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 Egg Harbor Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Falling can be life-threatening among the older population. A fracture may happen, and this can impact the ability to complete daily activities. It can change the quality of everyday life, possibly limiting exercising, which may affect cardiovascular health. Effective fall prevention methods can be implemented, which may help limit or prevent falling. These can include installing grab bars in the toilet and shower area, and many patients find it helpful to use a bathmat. Additionally, improving lighting in the household and removing worn rugs from the living room is beneficial. Regular physical and eye examinations can help update existing eyeglasses and medications, and adding handrails to the stairs may help prevent falling episodes. Suppose you would like additional information about how falling can affect the feet and what you can do to protect them. In that case, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can guide you toward efficient fall prevention techniques.

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 one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Center. 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 Egg Harbor Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The ankle is made up of bones and supported by muscles and ligaments that stabilize the body. Ankle disorders can occur from damage to any part of the ankle. Common ankle disorders include sprains, fractures, and tendonitis. An ankle sprain is an injury to the ligaments in the ankle. A fracture is a break in an ankle bone. Tendonitis is when there is inflammation in the ankle tendons. Running, jumping, and overuse are the leading causes of ankle disorders. Other causes of ankle problems are falling, lack of flexibility and strength in the leg and foot, and excess strain on the Achilles tendon. Symptoms experienced from ankle issues will differ depending on the specific problem, but commonly one might experience pain, swelling, stiffness, and lack of mobility from ankle disorders. If you are having any problems with your ankles, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to obtain a plan of treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors 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 tendonitis
• 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 Egg Harbor Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

As an individual ages and becomes a senior citizen, they could be at risk of experiencing a stroke of some sort. Suffering from a stroke can have many different effects to be aware of. For example, one common symptom of having a stroke involves foot drop. Stroke survivors with foot drop essentially have a difficult time raising their foot because of the weakness in the muscles that are normally responsible for lifting it. As a result of living with foot drop, a senior might experience slowness when walking or even potentially pain. After walking a short distance, an individual with foot drop can also experience fatigue. If you are someone who has endured a stroke, then it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. This foot specialist can help you address any issues you might be having with your feet. You can schedule an appointment with a trusted podiatrist today to address your foot problems.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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