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Cebu City Marathon Runners run Barefoot
Runners participating in a competition in the Cebu City Marathon (CCM) found themselves running the whole 42-kilometer route without any footwear, completely barefoot. One of the runners, Edwin Colina, says, “One of the reasons why we run barefoot is because we want something that is very challenging.” He says his reason for running barefoot is in celebration of Cebu’s patron saint, Sr. Santo Niño. The group of three barefoot runners was able to finish the marathon in 5 hours and 41 minutes.
Barefoot running has its own share of benefits and disadvantages. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Barefoot Running
The Impact of Barefoot Running
-Running without shoes changes the motion of your running, as most running is done by landing on the heel of the feet.
-Running barefoot requires a different way of running; the landing is done on the front part of the feet.
The Advantages of Barefoot Running
-When running and landing on the front feet, the impact on the feet and ankle is reduced, this can reduce stress injuries.
-It strengthens muscles in the feet and ankles and the lower legs.
-Balance of the body is improved and there is a greater sensory input from the feet to the rest of the body.
The Drawbacks of Barefoot Running
-No protection while running, makes it likely that runners will land on sharp objects and scrapes, bruises and cuts on the feet will result.
-Blisters may form.
-Possibility of plantar fascia problems.
-Risk of getting Achilles tendonitis.
So what can runners do to make barefoot running safe? It’s best to make a slow transition from running shoes to barefoot running. Once the feet begin to adjust, try walking, then jogging and gradually increasing the distance. Minimalist running shoes may also be an option.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Stem Cell Treatment Being Developed to Fight RA
New research indicates that stem cell technology can help fight against autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. Stem cell research has long been regarded as an area of debate, as stem cells could only be acquired through embryo cells. Recent medical advancements have allowed doctors and scientists to move forward into stem cell research, which offers many promises of medical treatment.
Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, consult with one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.
Symptoms
- Swelling & pain in the feet
- Stiffness in the feet
- Pain on the ball or sole of feet
- Joint shift and deformation
Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Drew Brees Suffers from Fascia Tear
Quarterback, Drew Brees, for the New Orleans Saints has been suffering from a torn plantar fascia. While Brees has been hoping to participate in the final two games of the season, it does not appear the given circumstances are in his favor as the injury is having a negative effect on his planting foot. The veteran player was injured during a game against the Detroit Lions, where he had to have his foot taped. Brees has been seeing the same physician that is looking after Peyton Manning’s plantar fascia problems.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, visit one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can treat your heel pain as well as any other foot or ankle condition.
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 contact our offices in Franklin Square and Bethpage, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Bunions vs. Other Foot Conditions
Bunions are one of the most common foot conditions for the big toe joint; however, there are other ailments that are often mistaken for a bunion. Arthritis in the big toe joint, also known as hallux rigidus, occurs due to deteriorating cartilage. While the spurs that occur mimic bunions, treatment and pain can be different. Ganglion cysts, firm fluid sacs, can occur anywhere, but when on the foot they are often confused for bunions.
Bunion surgery usually occurs after non-surgical methods have proved to be ineffective. If you have any concerns, consult with one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
What is a Bunion?
A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs by the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.
Why do Bunions Form?
- Genetics – susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
- Stress on the feet – poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can cause bunions to form
How are Bunions Diagnosed?
Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.
How are Bunions Treated?
- Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
- Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
- Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
- Orthotics or foot inserts
- Surgery
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Causes of Hammertoe
There are many different causes of hammertoe, all of which result in inflammation of the bent toe joint and pain, especially when wearing shoes. Hammertoes can either be inherited, result from an injury, arthritis, muscle imbalance, or ill-fitting shoes. If not treated right away, hammertoes can develop into a permanent condition that can keep degenerating over time. Surgery becomes the only option in severe cases like these. Treatments for hammertoe involve foot padding, prescription orthotics, or surgery.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. If you have any concerns, consult with one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
Hammertoe
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.
Symptoms
- Pain in the affected toes
- Development of corns or calluses due to friction
- Inflammation
- Redness
- Contracture of the toes
Causes
- Genetics – people who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible
- Arthritis – because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur
- Trauma – direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe
- Ill-fitting shoes – undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe
Treatment
- Orthotics – custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it
- Medications – oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used
- Surgery – in more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Rutgers Men’s Basketball Team Loses Ibrahima Diallo
The Rutgers basketball men’s team has lost its freshman forward/center player, Ibrahima Diallo, after he suffered a fractured foot during practice. This news means that Rutgers will have only two men for the game against Monmouth, and maybe even for the upcoming Big Ten schedule. The team’s best player, junior forward Deshawn Freeman, is on recovery since December 1 for a knee injury. Another player, sophomore center Shaq Doorson, is also out with a broken foot. Diallo’s injury now puts the Rutgers basketball men’s team in a challenging situation.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you have any concerns, consult with one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.
Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:
- Bruising
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Blue (foot)
- Numbness
- Cold
- Misshapen
- Cuts
- Deformities
Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.
Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Professional Racing Driver Kyle Busch Undergoes Leg and Foot Surgery
Kyle Busch, professional stock car racing driver and the 2015 Spring Cup Champion, suffered a broken leg and foot after a crash after practice at Daytona International Speedway. Following the break, Busch had to have surgery performed. He is expected to be in recovery for up to as much as 10 weeks. The accident gave Busch limited mobility in his knee. Doctors had removed the rod from Busch’s leg and foot, but he is expected to be ready for practice at Daytona on February 12.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to fix a foot ailment. If you have any concerns about your feet contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to help with the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary are:
- Removing foot deformities like bone spurs and bunions
- Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
- Cosmetic reconstruction
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:
- Bunionectomy for painful bunions
- Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
- Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage
Benefits of Surgery
Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.
Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Yellowing Toenails as a Symptom of Fungal Infection
If your toenails are yellow, you may have a fungal infection called onychomycosis. This disease mostly affects the toenails but can also affect the fingernails as well. According to Aaron Sinclair, M.D., there are many causes of onychomycosis, and they include age, exposure to unclean wet and public areas, poor foot hygiene, poor circulation, and systemic infections or diseases like diabetes. If not treated, the yellowed toenail can detract and break away on its own. Treatments include topical medication, and preventive measures should be taken to further prevent onychomycosis from coming back.
While toenail fungus is troublesome to eradicate, doing so is not impossible. To learn more, consult with one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will provide you with quality foot and ankle information and treatment.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a problem which affects many people and is hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating toenail fungus.
Antibiotics & Treatments
Lamisil – is the most commonly effective treatment for toenail fungus. It is available as an antibiotic Terbinafine tablet and cream. Terbinafine is a chemical component which kills fungal growth on the body. Applying regular doses will gradually kill the fungal growth. It is important to keep the area clean and air free.
Talcum powder – applying powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well
Alternative Treatments
There are always surgical procedures that are available for toenail fungus. Some people would like immediate quick removal of toenail fungus. Surgeons will be able to cut through and remove the growth using laser surgery. It is important not to try and remove it yourself. Once removed, your old shoes will need to be replaced to avoid reinfection.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Peyton Manning Instructed to Take Break by Foot Specialist
Peyton Manning has been told by foot specialist Dr. Robert Anderson of Charlotte, North Carolina to take a break for two weeks. For the past few months, Manning has been feeling a slight soreness in his left heel and apparently suffered a tear playing against the colts. Since then, the suffering has only continued and Manning has been put in a foot cast so he can get some rest and so his foot can get some healing.
Playing with a sports injury can cause many problems with later on. To learn more, consult with one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will provide you with quality foot and ankle information and treatment.
Playing Sports with Foot Injuries
Many types of foot injuries affect athletes over the course of their athletic career. Despite their setbacks, many of these athletes will continue to play with mild foot injuries and attempt to ‘push’ through the pain. In order to be able to prevent injuries, it is important to stretch before any activity, wear proper footwear and replace shoes as needed. Some of the foot injuries athletes are at risk for include:
- Turf toe- upward bending of the big toe outside normal range of motion
- Stress Fractures
- Overpronation- excessive foot movement during gait
- Plantar Fasciitis- swollen ligament in the foot’s base
- Strains
For more serious injuries it is recommended to consult with a podiatrist or orthopedic specialist as fractures and other serious conditions may require surgery.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Tips in Preventing the Many Different Types of Warts
There are many different varieties of warts, and none of them are pleasant. Plantar warts appear on the bottoms of your feet and are considered contagious. Treatment for your warts involve soaking them in warm water, sanding it, and applying an over-the-counter treatment that has salicylic acid. Cover your wart to prevent further spreading of the infection and repeat the process until the warts are gone.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you have any concerns with plantar warts on your feet contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat 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
- Legions 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, will 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 offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about plantar warts.
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Obesity Rates Are Rising
Obesity is a common problem among Americans, with obesity rates in adults climbing as much as 38 percent in 2013 to 2014, according to lead researcher Cynthia Ogden of the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics. If obesity is not treated, this can lead to chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. Obesity is defined by an adult’s body mass index (BMI), which can be calculated by body fat, height, and weight. Those who have BMIs of 30 or more are considered obese, and obesity rates can vary by sex, age, and race.
Any additional problems in the feet of those with obesity can be detrimental to foot health. To learn more, consult with one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will provide you with quality foot and ankle information and treatment.
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.
Solutions
Footwear – Specially made footwear that supports your joints, arches, and ankles, and allows room for good circulation is a great option to mitigate pressure and pain. A podiatrist will help you decide what works best for your specific needs.
Exercise – Exercise will help alleviate the pain and give your feet the strength it needs to support your body. Exercise also increases blood flow to your feet, allowing them to remain healthy and strong.
Most importantly, seek the help of a podiatrist for foot care if something is wrong or doesn’t seem to be working. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Tips About Shoe Fitting from Stuart Weitzman Designers
During late fall and late spring every year, the Stuart Weitzman brand hosts their biannual trunk shows. Known for their extended shoe sizes, the Stuart Weitzman brand makes shoes in slim, narrow, wide, and medium. Their shoe sizes range from 4 to 12. With some advice from their designers, you can figure out how to properly accommodate your feet. For those with narrow feet, use foam soles to expand the insides of your shoes, and opt for buying medium width shoes. If you have wide feet, try buying continental widths rather than American medium widths, or buy half a size bigger. For those with small feet, look overseas--many Asian countries have smaller sizes. And for those with big feet, Stuart Weitzman designers recommend looking into men’s sizes.
Finding a proper fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. To learn more, consult with one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will provide you with quality foot and ankle information and treatment.
Proper Shoe Fitting
A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in properly fitting shoes:
- Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
- Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
- Even though they may look fashionable, improperly fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
- Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity
Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, keeping properly fit shoes is vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Shockwave Therapy and Other Nonsurgical Options
Many patients are under the impression that a majority of foot ailments such as bunions, plantar fasciitis, hammertoes, and foot pain can only be treated with surgery. Foot experts agree, however, that most foot problems can be treated with non-surgical procedures such as shockwave therapy, ultrasound-guided injections, insoles, or physical therapy. Orthopaedic surgeon Norman Turner stated, “I think people come in wanting surgery because they want a quick fix and want to be back to normal.”
Shockwave therapy is a treatment commonly used to treat various injuries and conditions, particularly plantar fasciitis in the feet. To learn more, consult with one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will provide you with quality foot and ankle information and treatment.
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.
Who Benefits from Shockwave?
Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.
Fast and Easy
The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, attacking the source of the problem so treatment lasts for a long time.
Treatment & Recovery Time
Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia. This treatment is a better option to surgery, since it is proven safe.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Stretching the Feet is Important in Reducing and Identifying Injury
While conditions such as heel pain or plantar fasciitis are best treated by the professional podiatrist, patients can perform simple stretches at home to temporarily ease pain. Gentle, non-weight bearing calf and foot stretches in particular can be helpful. One method is to place a towel over the toes and foot. While keeping the knee straight, gently pull back on the towel until a stretch is felt in the calf. Hold this stretch for thirty seconds before repeating.
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Stretching Your Feet
Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.
Good ways to stretch your feet are:
- Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
- Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
- Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle
Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
