Tuesday, 02 April 2024 00:00

Bunions, a common foot condition, present noticeable symptoms that can affect daily life. One prominent indication is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, causing it to lean inward toward the other toes. This misalignment often leads to pain, swelling, redness, and restricted movement in the affected area. As bunions progress, they can cause discomfort, making it challenging to find comfortable footwear and engage in regular activities. However, several strategies can help manage bunions and alleviate symptoms. Wearing shoes with a wide toe box can reduce pressure on the bunion and provide ample space for the toes. Engaging in gentle stretching exercises can help to relieve pain and inflammation. In severe cases, where conservative measures fail to provide relief, surgical intervention may be considered to correct the underlying structural deformity. If you have a bunion, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can monitor its progression, and offer effective management techniques.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. 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?

Doctors 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 doctor.

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

Read more about What Are Bunions?
Wednesday, 27 March 2024 00:00

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.

Tuesday, 26 March 2024 00:00

Flat feet, or pes planus, is a condition where the arches of the feet collapse, resulting in the entire sole of the foot being in contact with the ground. This can lead to various issues such as foot pain, arch strain, heel pain, and even knee, hip, and lower back problems due to altered biomechanics. Custom-made orthotics are often prescribed as a solution for flat feet. These orthotic devices are tailored to the individual's foot structure and biomechanics, providing support and alignment to address the underlying causes of flat feet. There are different types of orthotics available, including rigid orthotics that offer maximum support and control, semi-rigid orthotics that provide a balance between support and flexibility, and soft orthotics that offer cushioning and shock absorption. By correcting foot alignment and redistributing pressure, custom orthotics can alleviate symptoms associated with flat feet, improve foot function, and prevent or minimize the risk of further complications. If you have flat feet and they are interfering with your quality of life, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to see if orthotics can help provide correction and relief.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. 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 contact our office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Ankle Foot Orthotics for Athletes
Tuesday, 19 March 2024 00:00

Basketball players are at high risk for foot injuries due to the sport's high-impact nature. One of the most common foot injuries encountered in basketball are ankle sprains, which occur when the foot twists or rolls unnaturally, stretching or tearing the ligaments that support the ankle. Stress fractures are also prevalent, particularly in the long bones in the foot, resulting from repetitive jumping and running. Plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot, can develop due to the constant pressure and impact on the heel. Overuse of the Achilles tendon can cause a common condition known as Achilles tendonitis, which causes pain along the back of the leg near the heel. Proper footwear, conditioning, and preventive measures like stretching are essential to lower the risk of these injuries for basketball players. If you have endured a foot or ankle injury from playing basketball, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment methods.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

  • Achilles Tendonitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains
  • Broken Foot
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Stress Fractures
  • Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

Read more about Sports Related Foot And Ankle Injuries

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