Balance issues often begin with problems in the feet and ankles, especially as people age. Good balance depends on being able to feel the ground and move with stability. Diabetes-related nerve damage, called neuropathy, can reduce feeling in the feet and affect the balance. Fallen arches, arthritis, joint stiffness, and painful foot deformities can also change the way a person walks and increase the risk of falling. Shoes that do not fit well or do not provide enough support can further affect balance and lead to slips or trips. A podiatrist can examine foot structure, check circulation and nerve function, and identify problems that affect balance and safe movement. Treatment includes custom orthotics, bracing, and guidance on supportive footwear. Improving foot stability can help retain balance and reduce the risk of falls. If you have injured your foot or ankle from falling, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions and prevention tips.

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.

Bunions are a foot condition that develop when a toe joint becomes misaligned, creating a visible bump and pain. The most common type affects the big toe, when it shifts toward the second toe and forms a bump at the base of the joint. A bunionette, sometimes called a tailor’s bunion, forms on the outer side of the foot at the base of the little toe. Although smaller, a bunionette can still cause pain, redness, and swelling, especially when the bump rubs against shoes. Symptoms of both types  of bunions include a firm bump, skin irritation, stiffness, and difficulty moving the affected toe. Over time, the toes may drift further out of position, which can make walking uncomfortable. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity and provide appropriate treatment. Options include custom orthotics, bracing, and surgery to improve alignment and reduce pain. If you have foot problems related to bunions, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for help.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, 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.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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.

Cracked heels, also called heel fissures, develop when the skin on the bottom or edges of the heel becomes thick, very dry, and less flexible. As pressure increases during standing and walking, the skin can split, causing discomfort that ranges from mild tenderness to sharp pain. The heel may look rough, flaky, yellowed, or callused. Deeper cracks may bleed or become inflamed. Common causes include dry skin, prolonged standing, and open-back shoes. Excess pressure on the heel and certain medical conditions that affect skin health are also factors. A podiatrist can examine the severity of the fissures, safely trim thickened skin, and recommend moisturizing treatments, supportive footwear, and custom orthotics to reduce pressure. Targeted care can help prevent infection and improve healing, especially when walking becomes painful. Early treatment is important because untreated fissures can deepen and lead to more serious skin breakdown. If you have painful cracked heels or heel fissures, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

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

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 Egg Harbor Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Smoker’s feet is a term used to describe foot problems linked to reduced blood flow caused by smoking. Nicotine narrows blood vessels, which limits circulation to the feet and toes. Signs include coldness, color changes, slow-growing nails, and a tingling or numb feeling. People may notice pain when walking or sores that heal slowly. As blood supply worsens, there is a higher risk of infection, nerve damage, and tissue breakdown. In severe cases, parts of the skin may not receive enough oxygen, leading to serious complications. Smoking can weaken bones, which may increase the risk of fractures and delay healing. A podiatrist can assess circulation, check nerve function, and look for skin changes. Imaging and vascular testing may be used to evaluate blood flow and guide care. If you have symptoms of smoker's feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness 
• Numbness or cramping in the legs
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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.