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Monday, 05 October 2020 00:00

How Is Ankle Replacement Surgery Performed?

Ankle replacement surgery is a treatment used to replace a damaged ankle joint with a prosthetic. Usually, the patient is put under general anesthesia, so that they are asleep and do not feel pain. Next, the surgeon makes a cut in the front of the ankle, exposing the ankle joint. After gently pushing the tendons, nerves, and blood vessels to the side, the surgeon removes the damaged bone and cartilage. The surgeon removes the damaged parts of the lower end of the shin bone and the top of the foot bone. Then metal parts of the new artificial joint are attached to the cut bony surfaces and a piece of plastic is inserted between them. The surgeon then puts the tendons and nerves back into place and stitches the incision site closed. The ankle is typically immobilized with a splint, cast, or brace while the patient recovers. To learn more about ankle replacement surgery, speak with a podiatrist. 

In certain cases, in which the patient suffers from extreme pain or damage in a joint, joint replacement surgery may be deemed useful. If you have constant pain in a foot joint, consult with Glenn Davison, DPM from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Joint Replacement Surgery?

Over time, joints wear down; this can be exacerbated by diseases and conditions. Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is when a damaged joint is surgically removed and replaced with a prosthesis. Prostheses, which can be made of ceramic, plastic, or metal, act as joints in lieu of an actual joint. One of the most prevalent causes for joint replacement is arthritis.

Arthritis in the Foot

Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body, including in the feet. Common types of arthritis in the foot are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The big toe is usually where arthritis occurs in the foot; this is known as hallux rigidus.

Joint Replacement Surgery in the Foot

The most common form of joint replacement in the foot is a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint placement. MTP joint replacement surgery is designed to treat hallux rigidus. Surgery is not intensive, and recovery occurs within one to two months after the procedure has been done. Overall, joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective way to treat pain in the joint of the foot.

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

Read more about Joint Replacement Surgery
Monday, 05 October 2020 00:00

Joint Replacement Surgery

When conservative, noninvasive treatments prove unsuccessful, podiatrists will often turn to surgery as the last line of treatment for their patients. If patients are suffering from joint pain, issues in mobility, or are seeking to correct a deformity, joint replacement surgery is an effective option. Joint replacement surgery is also successful in treating arthritis, which is the most common cause of improperly working joints.

Patients with symptoms that include joint pain, stiffness, limping, muscle weakness, limited motion, and swelling are typically considered for joint replacement surgery. Range of motion and activity post-surgery will vary between patients and depending on the specific surgery performed, the affected joint, and the damage that will need to be repaired.

Joint replacement surgery replaces the damaged cartilage and bone, the latter if required. The damaged cartilage is typically replaced with a prosthesis that is attached to the bone, allowing the implant to grow into the bone. Following surgery, the patient will typically undergo physical therapy to become familiar with movement using the replaced joint.

 

Monday, 14 September 2020 00:00

Why Does My Toe Hurt?

Pain while walking, tenderness, swelling, bruising, discoloration, misalignment or bumps on your toe are all common characteristics of big toe pain. Often, injuries such as stubbing your toe, overuse during exercise, and wearing ill-fitting shoes can be the source to blame. Other conditions that might cause toe pain include gout, rheumatoid arthritis, bunions, Morton’s neuroma, a toenail infection, and a fracture. Some at home remedies for toe pain can include soaking the toe, rest ice and elevation, as well as proper fitting footwear. If pain becomes severe or signs of an infection are developing, it is suggested to seek medical attention. A podiatrist can diagnose your underlying condition and provide you with the best treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Glenn Davison, DPM from Advanced Podiatry. 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 offices located in Union, NJ and New York . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Foot Pain
Monday, 31 August 2020 00:00

All About Ankle Pain

Whether you’ve rolled your ankle while walking, endured a sprain, or experience symptoms in your joints, ankle pain is something that is worth monitoring. Pain in this area can be the result of inflammation or damage to the bones, joints, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, or muscles that make up the ankle. Ankle pain is often accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling, bruising, redness, numbness, tingling, instability, and a reduced ability to bear weight on the affected ankle. The most common cause of ankle pain is an injury, such as a sprain or Achilles tendonitis. Arthritic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and gout tend to cause pain in the ankle joint as well. Nerve damage or neuropathy can cause lower limb pain and is especially common among diabetics. If you are experiencing ankle pain, it is strongly recommended that you seek the care of a podiatrist, who can diagnose and treat your condition.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Glenn Davison, DPM from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

  • Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
  • Ankle sprains
  • Broken ankles
  • Achilles tendinitis
  • Achilles tendon rupture
  • Stress fractures
  • Bursitis
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome
  • Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

 

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Monday, 31 August 2020 00:00

Ankle Pain

The ankle joint is the point at which the bones of the leg and foot join. This joint is crucial because it is responsible for the foot’s mobility. Ankle pain is typically the result of inflammation from an injury to bones, joint space, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, or muscles in the area. Commonly associated symptoms with ankle pain are bruising, redness, numbness, stiffness, weakness, and tingling.

The most common causes of ankle pain are sprains and injuries. Ankle sprains are one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries. Sprains occur when the ligaments of the ankle become partially or completely torn due to sudden stretching. Sprains can occur on either the inner or outer sides of the ankle joint. Usually, these injuries occur when the ankle is twisted in an activity by stepping off an uneven surface. More specific causes include rheumatoid arthritis, gout, osteoarthritis, and Achilles tendonitis.

If you are experiencing ankle pain, you should consult with your podiatrist to choose the best method of care. Your doctor will conduct an examination of your ankle to determine the underlying cause of the pain.

Monday, 03 August 2020 00:00

What Can Cause Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis that can cause sudden pain in the joints. The most commonly affected areas are the joints of the big toe. Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the joints. While some people are more prone to developing gout due to genetics, environmental factors can also lead to the excess uric acid buildup that causes gout. Consuming foods that cause your body to produce large amounts of uric acid, for example, red meat, seafood, alcohol and sugary drinks, can increase your risk of developing gout. Some medications, such as aspirin, certain diuretics, and some blood pressure-lowering pills are also thought to cause gout. Gout is also associated with a variety of medical conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, joint trauma, obesity, infections, congestive heart failure, and kidney disease. If you suspect you may have gout, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist, who can help you manage your condition and recommend strategies to prevent future gout flare-ups.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Glenn Davison, DPM from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

  • Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
  • Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
  • Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
  • Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

  • Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
  • Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
  • Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
  • Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
  • Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
  • Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Read more about Everything You Need to Know About Gout
Monday, 29 June 2020 00:00

Airplane Travel and Poor Circulation

People who travel on airplanes may experience poor circulation in their feet. This can occur from a lack of adequate leg room, in addition to limited mobility. Noticeable symptoms of this condition can include cramped and swollen feet which can cause severe pain and discomfort. It is important to take precautions while preparing for a long flight. These can consist of wearing loose clothing, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding caffeine. Research has indicated that it may be beneficial to take vitamin C & E supplements, as this may help to improve circulation. If you would like additional information about how poor circulation affects the feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Glenn Davison, DPM of Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor 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 offices located in Union, NJ and New York . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Causes Symptoms and Treatment for Poor Circulation in the Feet

The purpose of the body’s circulation system is to transport blood, oxygen, and nutrients throughout the body. A reduction of blood to a specific part of the body may cause one to experience symptoms of poor circulation. The most common causes of poor circulation in the feet are obesity, diabetes, and heart conditions such as peripheral artery disease (PAD). Common symptoms of poor circulation include tingling, numbness, throbbing, pain and muscle cramps.

Peripheral artery disease is a common cause of poor circulation in the legs. Symptoms of PAD are cramping, pain or tiredness in the leg or hip muscles while walking or climbing stairs. This pain tends to go away with rest and starts back up when you begin to walk.  It is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to become narrow. Although PAD is more common in adults over the age of 50, it may also occur in younger people.  A similar condition called atherosclerosis causes arteries to stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels.

Blood clots are also a common cause of poor circulation in the feet. Clots may obstruct blood vessels and if they occur in the legs, they may eventually lead to pain and discoloration. This occurrence is commonly known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and it may travel to the lungs. Varicose veins are another condition that may lead to poor circulation, and it is caused by incompetence of the valves in the veins. Women who are overweight are prone to developing this condition. Lastly, diabetes, which is correlated with poor blood sugar metabolism may lead to chronic poor circulation. Those with diabetes often suffer from cramping in the legs, calves, thighs and buttocks.

If you are looking for ways to avoid poor circulation there are some tips you can follow. One tip is to avoid sitting for too long. If you plan to sit down for a long period of time, you should try standing up occasionally, to improve your circulation. Another great way to avoid poor circulation is to exercise. Exercise is an excellent way to pump the heart and increase blood flow. Those who suffer from poor circulation should also avoid smoking, reduce their salt intake, and try to lose weight.

If you are experiencing symptoms from poor circulation in your feet, you should consult with your podiatrist to determine the best method for treatment for you. He or she may prescribe medication in addition to recommending specific lifestyle changes to improve your circulation.

Research has indicated that it may be beneficial to purchase running shoes that are a half size larger than shoes that are worn for daily activities. When shoes have ample room for the toes and heels to feel comfortable, overall foot fatigue and blisters may be prevented. Additionally, the larger size shoe may accommodate for existing swelling, and can allow for the foot to point and flex while running. It is beneficial to obtain a foot measurement later in the day while the feet are at their largest, as this may be helpful in determining the correct size running shoe to purchase. If you would like more information about how to buy running shoes that fit your feet perfectly, please consult with a podiatrist who can help you to purchase the correct shoes.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact Glenn Davison, DPM from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

  • Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
  • Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
  • Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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

Read more about Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Research has shown that blisters on the feet may develop from wearing specific types of shoes. These may include flip flops, which can be popular to wear during the warmer months. Many people enjoy wearing this type of shoe, despite the fact that blisters may form between the toes. This can be a result of constant friction coupled with dirt and debris that may lodge on the feet. Additionally, blisters may form on top of the foot, and this may happen from the straps that hold the shoe together. It is defined as a small bubble that is filled with fluid, which develops over the affected area. This is how the body naturally protects the damaged skin. As the healing process occurs, the blister will gradually drain. Blisters may cause pain and discomfort while walking, which is why it is suggested that you alternate shoes you wear. For additional information on how blisters can affect the feet, please consult with a podiatrist.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Glenn Davison, DPM of Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

  • Bubble of skin filled with fluid
  • Redness
  • Moderate to severe pain
  • Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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

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