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Strategies That Help To Prevent Falling

Monday, 25 November 2019

Research has indicated that it is beneficial to implement strategies that can be helpful in preventing falling. This is crucial as the aging process occurs, and may be beneficial in avoiding painful injuries. When gentle exercises are frequently performed, the body may become stronger, and falling may be prevented. Additionally, taking vitamin D on a daily basis may help to minimize a bone density deficiency. Other ways to prevent falling may include removing any loose carpeting in the living area, and installing grab bars in the toilet and shower area. Many elderly patients are aware of the importance of regularly checking their vision, which helps to determine how well objects are seen that may be in their way of walking. If you would like additional information about how falling can affect the feet, please speak with a podiatrist.

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 Dr. Robert Marcus from Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. Our doctor 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 Teaneck, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Can Practicing Yoga Help to Prevent Running Injuries?

Monday, 18 November 2019

Research has indicated it is beneficial to perform specific stretching techniques that may be helpful in preventing running injuries. It is wise to choose running shoes that fit correctly, assuring the heel and toes feel comfortable. The joints, muscles, and tendons can remain flexible when yoga is routinely practiced, which may help to increase the enjoyment of running. Additionally, many runners practice strength training, this can keep the muscles strong which may add to endurance. Any tension that is present may be alleviated when a massage is performed, helping this to aid the body in feeling relaxed. If you are contemplating the sport of running, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can advise you on how to prevent running injuries.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Robert Marcus of Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

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

What are Orthotics?

Monday, 18 November 2019

Many patients who experience specific foot conditions may benefit from wearing orthotics. They are defined as devices that are inserted into shoes, and are known to improve a variety of foot ailments. Research has indicated that there are three types of orthotics. First, there are inserts, which are created for certain foot conditions referred to as custom orthotics. Secondly, there are orthotics that are found in retail stores, and these may provide adequate support for mild foot ailments. A brace that can help to control ankle movement and may offer additional support to the foot is referred to as an ankle-foot orthotic. If you are interested in using orthotics to find relief from certain foot conditions, it is strongly advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly assist you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Dr. Robert Marcus from Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Wednesday, 13 November 2019

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Fungus and Athlete’s Foot

Monday, 11 November 2019

Athlete’s foot is a common condition that affects the bottom of the feet or in between the toes. It can be uncomfortable as a result of consistent itching, and in severe cases, blisters may form. It is caused by a fungus that typically lives and thrives in moist environments. These types of areas often include public swimming pools, shower room floors, and surrounding areas. It is considered to be contagious, and an effective prevention method may consist of wearing appropriate shoes while in these places. Some patients may find mild relief if an anti-fungal spray is applied. If you are noticing symptoms of athlete's foot, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis this condition, and prescribe medication if this ailment is severe.

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. Robert Marcus from Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. 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 Teaneck, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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