Tuesday, 25 June 2019 00:00

Obesity and Heel Pain

Many people suffer from heel pain, including people who are obese. Mild relief may be found when exercises and foot stretches are frequently performed. People who are overweight may have challenges in practicing a regular exercise regime, and this may be a result of the additional weight the body endures. There are aerobic exercises that can be performed, which can aid in weight loss. If traditional forms of exercise are difficult to partake in, there are other methods to accomplish a weight loss goal. These can include cycling and swimming. Additionally, it is helpful to reduce the amount of calories that are eaten, as this can be beneficial in attaining exercise goals. If you are overweight and experiencing heel pain, it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward relief.

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

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

Read more about How Obesity Affects Your Feet
Monday, 29 July 2019 00:00

How to Treat Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are bumps that form on the feet from the HPV virus. Plantar warts may be painful, and are typically contracted in places such as public swimming pools or gyms. There are various treatment options for this condition. The goal is to irritate the bump so your own immune system can attack it. On your own, you could buy salicylic acid or apple cider vinegar and apply it to the warts. Another at-home remedy is leaving a piece of duct tape on the wart, and pulling it off after a few days. If these options do not work, or if you want the warts gone quickly, you can see a podiatrist. The doctor can freeze, burn or cut the lesion, in order to initiate an immune system response. If your plantar warts are bothering you, or if you are not sure what the bumps on your feet are, be sure to see a podiatrist.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

Read more about Plantar Warts

If you are experiencing pain between the third and fourth toes, it may be indicative of a condition that is referred to as Morton’s neuroma. It is a common ailment that consists of a swollen nerve on the bottom of the foot, and causes severe pain and discomfort. Contributing factors for developing this condition could be wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or frequently participating in certain sporting activities. Mild relief may be found if the affected area is massaged, and the proper footwear is worn. Additionally, it may help the pain if the calf muscles and the bottom of the foot are stretched. The symptoms that are often associated with this condition can include a burning sensation while walking, and the toes becoming numb. There are effective treatment choices available, which can involve certain injections, or surgery may be a viable option. If you have this type of pain, it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist who can determine the best treatment for you.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

  • Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
  • Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
  • Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Read more about Morton's Neuroma
Monday, 15 July 2019 00:00

Stretching Techniques for the Feet

When the soles of the feet are stretched, it may contribute to an overall positive feeling in the body. The feet are considered to be the foundation of the body, and chronic foot pain may affect the way you walk. There are simple ways to stretch the arches, toes, and soles, and it is beneficial to practice these stretches as frequently as possible. An effective stretch begins with starting on your hands and knees, and gradually sitting back on your heels, while keeping the toes tucked. To stretch the toes and ankles, sit on the floor and cross one leg over the other. Grasp one foot, and gently pull the toes apart, while moving the ankle in circles. The arch can be stretched by rolling the foot on a tennis ball or frozen water bottle. The latter technique may feel good after a long day of standing on your feet. If you would like additional information about how to stretch your feet, please consult with a podiatrist.

Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first to determine if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

  • Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
  • Similar to the previous exercise, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
  • Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
  • Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.

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

Read more about Stretching Your Feet
Monday, 19 August 2019 00:00

Who Does Sever’s Disease Affect?

The medical condition that is referred to as Sever’s disease affects the growth plate in the heel. It typically occurs during a growth spurt that happens during puberty. The people that may experience this are teenagers who participate in running and jumping activities, and the growth plate may become injured. The symptoms that are commonly associated with this condition include heel pain, limping, and the feet may feel stiff upon arising in the morning. Mild relief can be found when shoe inserts are worn which can help to protect the heel, and wearing an elastic bandage may aid in reducing existing pain and swelling. If you notice your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, please schedule a consultation with a podiatrist, who can properly diagnosis and treat Sever’s disease.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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

Read more about Sever's Disease
Tuesday, 13 August 2019 00:00

Types of Foot Pain

The feet are comprised of numerous bones, tendons, and ligaments, and are considered to be the foundation of the body. It is important to maintain proper foot care, as this can help to prevent different types of foot pain from occurring. The condition that is known as athlete’s foot may cause severe itching between the toes and on the bottom of the feet. It is caused by a fungus that lives in warm and damp environments, and may be avoided if appropriate shoes are worn while in public areas. A large bump that forms on the side of the big toe may be a bunion, and can develop from genetic factors, or from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Ingrown toenails often produce pain and discomfort, and may be avoided when the toenails are trimmed properly. If you have any type of foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer the best course of treatment for you.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor 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 Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Foot Pain
Tuesday, 06 August 2019 00:00

An Overview of Plantar Fasciitis

The plantar fascia is a rigid, thick tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia becomes inflamed. Causes include rapid weight gain, excessive exercise, flat feet, improper footwear and prolonged standing. The most common symptoms are heel swelling and/or stiffness, sharp or dull pain at the bottom of the foot and pain that worsens with the more weight that is put on it. The treatment options for plantar fasciitis are fairly basic. They are rest, applying ice, stretching and muscle strengthening exercises. Strategies that can be used to prevent plantar fasciitis from recurring are losing weight, wearing supportive, well-cushioned footwear, regularly performing plantar fascia stretching exercises and switching to low-impact forms of exercise such as swimming and stationary cycling. If you are experiencing any symptoms of plantar fasciitis, it is advised to consult with a podiatrist for the best treatment options.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM  from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

  • Excessive running
  • Non-supportive shoes
  • Overpronation
  • Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

  • Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
  • Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
  • Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Read more about Plantar Fasciitis
Tuesday, 17 September 2019 00:00

What Is a Plantar Wart?

Patients who have had a plantar wart are familiar with the pain and discomfort it can cause. It is caused by human papillomavirus, which is known as HPV. It enters the body through small cuts in the skin on the feet, and will typically grow in the heel area. This virus lives in warm and moist environments, which can include public pools, shower room floors, and surrounding areas. A plantar wart is different than most warts because it grows into the heel instead of out. This happens as a result of the amount of pressure the heel endures while standing and walking. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this contagious condition can include heel pain, which can be severe upon arising in the morning, bleeding if it is scraped, and walking may also be affected. If you have a plantar wart, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who has access to methods for proper removal. 

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

Read more about What Are Plantar Warts?
Monday, 09 September 2019 00:00

What Is a Plantar Wart?

Patients who have had a plantar wart are familiar with the pain and discomfort it can cause. It is caused by human papillomavirus, which is known as HPV. It enters the body through small cuts in the skin on the feet, and will typically grow in the heel area. This virus lives in warm and moist environments, which can include public pools, shower room floors, and surrounding areas. A plantar wart is different than most warts because it grows into the heel instead of out. This happens as a result of the amount of pressure the heel endures while standing and walking. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this contagious condition can include heel pain, which can be severe upon arising in the morning, bleeding if it is scraped, and walking may also be affected. If you have a plantar wart, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who has access to methods for proper removal. 

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

Read more about All About Plantar Warts
Monday, 02 September 2019 00:00

Toddlers And Walking Barefoot

There are several bones, joints, and ligaments that the human foot is comprised of. When babies are born, their feet are flexible, and will gradually become stronger as walking begins. Babies are typically born with flat feet, and the arch generally develops as the feet become stronger. Research has indicated that it is beneficial for toddlers to walk barefoot while indoors, and this can help the toes to strengthen by grasping the floor. When the first pair of shoes are purchased, the feet should be properly measured, and this is helpful in determining the correct shoe size. It is important that the shoes have flat and flexible soles, in addition to ensuring that there is inadequate room for the toes to move freely in. If you would like more information about how to care for your child’s feet, please consult with a podiatrist.     

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

  • Make sure their shoes fit properly
  • Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
  • Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
  • Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
  • Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
  • Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
  • Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
  • Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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

Read more about How to Care for Your Child's Feet
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