Items filtered by date: September 2023

Pickleball, a popular sport combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has gained a dedicated following in recent years. However, like any physical activity, it carries the risk of injuries, and one of the most common being plantar fasciitis. This is a painful condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot. The repetitive motions, quick lateral movements, and sudden stops and starts in pickleball can put immense strain on the plantar fascia. Over time, this strain can lead to tiny tears in the tissue, resulting in pain and discomfort, often most pronounced in the heel. Preventing plantar fasciitis in pickleball involves practicing proper warm-up routines, wearing appropriate footwear, and performing regular calf and Achilles tendon stretches. If injury strikes, resting and taking anti-inflammatory medications may help alleviate symptoms. Seeking professional guidance from a podiatrist is crucial for a tailored recovery plan, which may include exercises to strengthen the foot and improve biomechanics. By being proactive about injury prevention and prompt treatment, pickleball enthusiasts can continue enjoying this fun sport while minimizing the risk of plantar fasciitis and other common injuries. If you have heel pain from playing pickleball, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you additional relief and treatment methods.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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.

Arthritis is a common condition causing joint pain and stiffness, and can often affect the feet. It affects one in six people over 50. Early joint preservation is crucial to maintain mobility and prevent pain. Building muscle strength, especially in smaller intrinsic foot muscles, is key to improving symptoms and quality of life. Understanding foot function through 3D gait analysis helps shift forces away from affected joints using methods such as strengthening, taping, footwear, or orthotics. While conservative treatments are preferred, sometimes surgery is necessary to maintain joint mobility. Joint fusion surgery is considered in severe cases when foot function is greatly impaired. If you have foot arthritis, it does not have to limit your life. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to help you preserve joint mobility, learn how to build muscle strength, and help you to understand foot function. 

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.

A foot bath offers a myriad of health benefits that can enhance your overall well being. This ancient practice of immersing your feet in warm water has gained popularity in modern times. Foot baths have direct benefits for your feet. They soften and exfoliate the skin, preventing development of thick calluses. They also discourage bacterial buildup under toenails, cuts, and blisters, reducing the risk of infection. This is why pedicures often include a foot bath. Foot baths also aid in detoxification in the body and are beneficial for various medical conditions. Incorporating Epsom salt into your foot baths can help to manage muscle cramps, boost blood circulation, and reduce inflammation. Additionally, foot baths can also help to treat fungal infections, remove splinters, and provide foot pain relief. Essential oil foot baths add aroma therapeutic benefits to your soak. This can be beneficial in smoothing and moisturizing your skin, easing tired muscles, and reducing stiff joints. Soaking your feet in apple cider vinegar offers various health benefits as well, including treating fungal infections, soothing sore feet, and healing dry skin. If you would like to learn more about the benefits of foot therapy, such as foot baths, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Foot therapy is often necessary for those recovering from either foot deformities or foot injuries. If you have concerns regarding therapy, consult with 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.

Most Common Injuries

People who are active or athletes are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is often important to take part in physical therapy in order to quickly get back on the right track. 

What to Do When Injured

Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.

During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. Physical therapy often involves:

Basic stretching and twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.

Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.

Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.

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.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis and emerges as an excruciating reminder of our lifestyle choices. Characterized by intense pain, redness, and swelling, gout often targets the joints, primarily the big toe. The underlying cause of gout lies in the accumulation of uric acid crystals within these joints, leading to sudden and severe flare-ups. These crystals form when there is an excess of uric acid in the bloodstream. This can be a result of a diet rich in purines, alcohol consumption, obesity, or even genetic predisposition. As these needle-like crystals jab into the joint, the body responds with inflammation, driving the typical symptoms of gout. Beyond the immediate agony, this condition serves as a reminder that moderation and balanced living play pivotal roles in safeguarding our joint health. If you have developed gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage this condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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.