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Point Pleasant

October 2019

Monday, 28 October 2019 00:00

Possible Causes of Poor Circulation

Research has indicated that if you have poor circulation in your feet, it may be indicative of other medical conditions. These may include diabetes, heart conditions, and obesity. It is defined as restricted blood flow to the lower extremities, and there are often noticeable symptoms that are associated with this condition. These can consist of numbness, tingling, and muscle cramps, in addition to pain and discomfort. Nerve damage can possibly be caused by poor circulation, in addition to varicose veins and blood clots. Patients may find relief when specific exercises are performed, and compression stockings are worn that are designed for painful, swollen legs. If you feel you have symptoms of this condition, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist to learn about the best treatment options for you.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Alan J. Spector of Shore 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 office located in Point Pleasant, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Poor Blood Circulation in the Feet
Wednesday, 23 October 2019 00:00

Before you start dancing...

 

Tuesday, 22 October 2019 00:00

Diabetic Patients and Exercising the Feet

Patients who are diabetic can possibly benefit from performing stretches and exercising the feet. Neuropathy is a common foot condition that many diabetic patients experience, and it may help to incorporate balance exercises that can include riding a stationary bike and swimming. Research has indicated that it is beneficial to avoid performing exercises that can increase blood pressure, which may include strength training and cardiovascular routines. The feet can benefit from performing the correct exercise, and it is important to consider the specific foot condition. If you would like additional information about the benefits of exercising the feet, please consult with a podiatrist.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Alan J. Spector from Shore Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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

Read more about Exercise for Your Feet
Monday, 14 October 2019 00:00

Where Is The Tarsal Tunnel Located?

The area in the foot that is known as tarsal tunnel, is located on the inside of the ankle between bones and tissue. There are arteries, veins, and tendons that are also found inside the tarsal tunnel, in addition to the posterior tibial nerve. The condition that is referred to as tarsal tunnel syndrome can occur if this nerve becomes compressed. This can happen as a result of bone spurs, flat feet, or medical conditions that can include diabetes or arthritis. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this condition can consist of a burning or tingling sensation, in addition to sharp pain in the calf, foot, or ankle. Patients may find moderate relief when specific medications are taken, and the foot may feel better when different shoes are worn. If you have pain in your foot, it suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis and treat tarsal tunnel syndrome.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Alan J. Spector of Shore Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

  • Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
  • Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
  • At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

  • Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
  • The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
  • If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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

Read more about Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Monday, 14 October 2019 00:00

How To Become A Podiatrist

If you are experiencing any type of foot problem, you will most likely seek the counsel of a podiatrist. These types of doctors treat conditions that are related to the feet, and are referred to as doctors of podiatric medicine. People who are interested in pursuing a career in this field of medicine are required to complete four years of undergraduate work, in addition to three years of training in clinics and hospitals. There are several branches of podiatric medicine. These can include specializing in foot care for children, performing surgery to correct foot deformities, or practicing sports medicine. Many people seek the services of a podiatrist to treat common foot conditions that can include ingrown toenails, flat feet, or the painful arthritic condition known as gout. If you are interested in pursuing a career in podiatry, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can properly answer any questions you may have about the field of podiatry.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact Dr. Alan J. Spector from Shore Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

  • Physical therapy
  • Drugs
  • Orthotic inserts or soles
  • Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

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

Read more about What is a Podiatrist?
Wednesday, 09 October 2019 00:00

Can Foot Pain Be Related to Obesity?

Research has indicated that foot pain may increase in obese patients. This can be a result of added pressure that the plantar fascia must endure. It may lead to a painful foot condition that is known as plantar fasciitis. Additionally, patients who are overweight may suffer from heel pain, and may develop heel spurs. An effective method of losing unwanted weight is to practice a regular aerobic exercise routine. Obese people may find difficulty in maintaining a healthy weight possibly due to a lack of exercise, and this may be a result of chronic foot pain that may accompany obesity. Consult with a podiatrist about any foot pain you have from being obese as this will provide you with the best methods in losing excess weight.

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Dr. Alan J. Spector from Shore Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

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

Read more about Obesity and the Feet
Wednesday, 02 October 2019 00:00

Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked

Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

Tuesday, 01 October 2019 00:00

Is Hammertoe A Deformity?

There are noticeable signs you may have a hammertoe. These can include the second toe bending in a downward direction, often resembling a hammer. Additionally, it may bend over the third toe, and it may be difficult to walk. This condition may be caused by genetic traits, or can come from wearing shoes that do not have enough room for the toes to move freely in. It is considered to be a deformity of the bones in the toes, and in severe cases, surgery may be required to permanently straighten the toes. In the beginning stages of hammertoe, mild relief may be found when larger shoes are worn that can accommodate the bent toes. Some patients find it beneficial to wear pads on the top of the affected toes, and this may help to prevent corns from developing. If you are afflicted with hammertoe, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition. 

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Alan J. Spector from Shore Podiatry. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

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 contact our office located in Point Pleasant, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What Are Hammertoes?
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