Items filtered by date: April 2023

The feet are the workhorses of the body, absorbing shock and force whenever you stand, walk, run, or jump. Because they contain a large number of bones, tendons, muscles, and ligaments, the feet are often at risk for pain. Injury is one of the most common causes of foot pain. This category includes bone fractures, direct trauma, ligament sprains, and muscle or tendon strains. Heel or arch pain is frequently caused by a tearing of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue in the sole of the foot that connects the toes and heels. Heel pain also may be caused by bone spurs, which can be a direct result of plantar fasciitis, or of the thinning of the heel pad as you age. Bunions, hammertoes, and other bone deformities can be another source of foot and toe pain. Gout, which is an inflammatory disease caused by having excess uric acid in the body, can be extremely painful, often targeting the big toe. Nerve problems such as sesamoiditis and Morton’s neuroma are other painful conditions of the feet. If you are experiencing any type of foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can examine your foot, and diagnose the source before recommending the appropriate treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. John Branwell from Kearny, New Jersey. 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 Kearny, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot problems are relatively common among those with diabetes. Over time, diabetes can cause neuropathy, a type of nerve damage. It can interfere with feeling in the feet and cause tingling and pain. With the loss of feeling in the feet, one can get a blister or sore on their foot that gets infected or does not heal properly and never know about it. Also, diabetes can lower the amount of blood flow to the feet, making it harder for sores or infections to heal. Unfortunately, improper healing in diabetics could lead to gangrene and limb loss. Management of blood glucose levels and daily foot care can help to prevent diabetic-related foot problems. Things you can do each day to care for your feet include washing, drying, and moisturizing them, examining your feet for any sores or abnormalities, and trimming toenails straight across. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you have a podiatrist on your healthcare team and receive regular examinations of your feet.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. John Branwell from Kearny, New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Sever’s disease affects the heel and arch in young children and teenagers. This age group of people is generally active in participating in running and jumping activities, and the growth plate in the heel is affected. It can be painful at the point where the Achilles tendon connects to the heel, and the surrounding muscles grow faster than the growth plate. The pain is often worse during the chosen activity and may feel better when the foot is rested. Parents may notice their child is limping, and they may have difficulty standing on their tiptoes. A physical examination can be done to confirm this condition, which is followed by treatment that begins with temporarily stopping the activity that caused the pain. Performing stretches that can strengthen the calf muscles may help to accelerate the recovery. If your active child has heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer the best treatment for your child.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. John Branwell from Kearny, New Jersey. 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 Kearny, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

Statistics show that at least one-third of people 65 and older fall at least once a year, and many fall multiple times. Here are a few ways to avoid falling at home, which can bring broken bones and hospitalization. Because most falls by seniors occur in the bathroom, here are some suggestions to prevent injury. Make sure the bathroom is well-lit, including night lights, install a shower chair or bench to sit on when bathing, and have non-skid rubberized mats installed on the floor. Having handrails installed in the tub or shower and near the toilet, and ample lighting near the bed and on the way to the bathroom is beneficial. If walking is difficult, especially at night, you may wish to use a bedside commode. Falls may also be caused by other factors, such as medications that cause dizziness, eyeglasses with an outdated prescription, and neuropathy or other underlying illness that make walking difficult. If you have fallen or need more information about preventing a fall, it is suggested that you contact 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 Dr. John Branwell from Kearny, New Jersey. Our doctor 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 Kearny, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.