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What Are The Treatment Options for Bunions?

Monday, 26 March 2018

A bunion is often easily identified because of the large bony protrusion that appears on the side of the big toe.The skin on top of the bone may look red and and can become painful due to the friction the toes experience from shoes. Bunions can be caused by conditions such as arthritis or an abnormal foot structure that may possibly be inherited. The condition can also be made worse by wearing shoes that fit poorly. If you suffer from this ailment, it’s recommended to wear wider shoes to accommodate the affected toe. A more permanent solution would be surgery, in which the bunion is removed. If you have this condition, please consult with a podiatrist for additional information and to determine the best treatment option for you.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Robert Marcus of Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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 due to 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 worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists 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 provider.

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 office located in Teaneck, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Are The Feet Affected By Obesity?

Monday, 19 March 2018

There are several ailments that may develop concerning the feet when obesity exists. When the body endures additional weight, it’s common to experience blisters, cracked skin on the heels, ankle sprains, and athlete’s foot. Many injuries occur because of damage inflicted on the soft tissue, so it’s important that the feet are protected during daily activities. This may consist of choosing to wear thick socks that serves as insulation against any friction. Pain and discomfort in the feet makes it difficult to exercise, and it often inhibits the desire to stay active. Diabetes can often develop as a result of being overweight, and it’s suggested that checkups of the feet are done regularly to aid in controlling this condition. Please consider scheduling a consultation with a podiatrist for additional information on how obesity can affect the feet

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. 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.

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 Teaneck, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Types of Hammertoe Surgery

Monday, 12 March 2018

If you have a toe that bends at the joint and points up, you may have what is referred to as a hammertoe. In severe cases where this affliction may affect everyday activities, surgery may be a viable option for relief. There are several different types of surgery that can be performed for the removal of one or more hammertoes. One type of surgery that is effective is referred to as a tendon transfer, and this is executed by pulling the tendon across the toe. This results in the toe becoming straighter. This may be beneficial, as it reduces pain and improves the appearance of the toe. Additionally, another type of surgery is known as a joint resection, and this is performed by possibly removing part of the bone and cutting the tendons and ligaments. If you are suffering from this condition, please schedule a consultation with a podiatrist to determine if surgery is appropriate for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Robert Marcus of Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. Our doctor will assist you with all of 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 alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
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 office located in Teaneck, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The Benefits of Stretching the Toes

Monday, 12 March 2018

Many people who stretch their bodies often overlook the importance of stretching their toes. The toes may gradually become deformed, which typically happens from wearing shoes that fit too tightly. This may possibly cause the toes to shift out of place. Improper walking may also be a result of wearing poorly fitting shoes, causing the muscles in the toes to be used ineffectively. Recent research has shown there are many benefits of stretching the toes daily, which may include preventing conditions such as hammertoe and bunions from developing. An effective toe stretch is to take your toes in your hand and gently pull each toe up and then apart from the other toes until a gentle stretch is felt throughout the foot. Please consider a consultation with a podiatrist for more information about the benefits of stretching the toes.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. Robert Marcus from Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the 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.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

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

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