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Point Pleasant

August 2019

Tuesday, 27 August 2019 00:00

Understanding Athlete's Foot

Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection. A majority of athlete’s foot cases are caused by fungi that thrive in closed, warm, and moist environments. The fungi feed on Keratin, which is a protein found in the hair, nails, and skin. Athlete’s foot is mildly contagious and can spread through direct contact with the infection and by skin particles left on towels, shoes, or floors. Walking barefoot can increase the chances of contracting athlete’s foot. The risk can also go up depending on your susceptibility. People who have impaired immune systems or diabetes are at greater risk for infection if they have an open cut or sore on their foot. If you have developed athlete’s foot or feel that you may be at risk, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist. 
 

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Dr. Alan J. Spector from Shore Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

  • Thoroughly washing and drying feet
  • Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
  • Using shower shoes in public showers
  • Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
  • Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

  • Redness
  • Burning
  • Itching
  • Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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 care needs.

 

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Wednesday, 21 August 2019 00:00

Heel Pain Can Be Treated!

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

Monday, 19 August 2019 00:00

What is Arthritis?

In the foot, arthritis causes inflammation and swelling of the cartilage and in the lining of the joints. Arthritic feet can result in a loss of mobility and independence, but early diagnosis will help significantly. Besides showing up hereditarily, some other causes of arthritis include bacterial and viral infections in the joints, ignored injuries in athletes and industrial workers, and bowel disorders such as colitis and ileitis that lead to arthritis. The three main types of arthritis most often found in the foot are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout. The symptoms to look for in arthritis are swelling in one or more of the joints, recurring pain or tenderness, redness or stiffness in the joints and any skin changes or rashes. There are also several treatments available for arthritis in the feet. These include physical therapy and foot exercises, aspirin and orthotics. Surgery would be a last resort option if the joints in the foot are extensively damaged and need to be replaced with artificial joints. If you feel you are developing some sort of arthritis in your feet, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist. 

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, 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.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

  • Swelling
  • Pain
  • Stiffness
  • Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

  • Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
  • Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
  • Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
  • Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
  • Age – Risk increases with age
  • Gender –Most types are more common in women
  • Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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 care needs.

Read more about How to Care for Your Arthritic Foot
Tuesday, 13 August 2019 00:00

Injuries to the Achilles Tendon

The tendon that is located on the back of the leg is known as the Achilles tendon, and it is the largest tendon in the body. The purpose of this tendon is to connect the calf to the heel, and is considered to be stronger than it is flexible. If an injury should occur that affects this tendon, it may cause a tear or rupture, and can produce severe pain and discomfort. It may happen as a result of participating in sporting activities, wearing incorrect shoes for the chosen sport, or medical conditions which can include flat feet. The symptoms that are often associated with an Achilles tendon injury can include redness and swelling surrounding the affected area, and it may be difficult to stand on tiptoes or to point and flex your foot. Mild relief can be found when the activity that caused this ailment is stopped, and it may be beneficial to elevate the leg which can help to reduce existing swelling. If you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, 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.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

  • Inflammation
  • Dull to severe pain
  • Increased blood flow to the tendon
  • Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

  • Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
  • Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

  • Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
  • Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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

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Tuesday, 06 August 2019 00:00

What Causes Ankle Pain?

There are different forms of ankle pain, and they can occur for a variety of different reasons. For example, an ankle sprain is a common injury that can happen as a result of falling and twisting the ankle. The ligaments can tear or stretch, and this generally causes severe pain and discomfort. If the joints surrounding the ankle become inflamed, a condition known as arthritis may be present. The most common forms of this condition are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Additionally, gout is a painful condition that affects the big toe primarily, but can affect the ankle as well. It can occur as a result of specific foods that are eaten. Some patients develop tendonitis in the ankle, which can cause difficulty in moving the lower portion of the foot. If you are experiencing ankle pain for any reason, it is advised to speak to a podiatrist who can guide you toward beginning the correct treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Alan J. Spector from Shore 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 office located in Point Pleasant, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

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