Items filtered by date: April 2023

Falling can be serious among older individuals. It can lead to debilitating injuries, many of which can affect the feet. It is helpful to discuss existing medications while having routine physical examinations and staying current with eye exams. The latter can be beneficial in updating eyeglass prescriptions. There are effective fall prevention techniques that can be put into place that may reduce the number of falls. These can include engaging in a regular exercise routine like yoga or tai chi and both can improve balance. The body can become stronger when low-impact cardiovascular exercise is frequently practiced, which may help strengthen the legs. Additionally, simple changes made in the household may significantly contribute to limiting falling episodes. These can consist of improving lighting, removing worn rugs, and installing grab bars in the shower and toilet area. If you would like more information about how falling can affect the feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with the correct information.

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. Rosa Roman from Ankle and Foot Center. 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 Bloomfield, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The heels of the feet endure a great deal of stress and, therefore, are often open to pain and injury. The most common causes of heel pain are plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, bone spurs, and stress fractures. Heel bursitis, Sever’s disease, and Haglund’s syndrome are other causes that occur less frequently. Pain can be experienced behind the heel, within the bone itself, and under the heel. Simply stepping on a hard rock can cause pain under the heel, but the most common cause is plantar fasciitis. This is an overuse injury to the tissue that runs under the foot and connects the heel to the toes. Chronic plantar fasciitis can also lead to the development of heel spurs on the calcaneus, the main heel bone. Inflammation to the Achilles tendon from overuse is the most frequent cause of pain behind the heel. A podiatrist, a medical doctor who is trained in ailments of the feet and ankles, can diagnose the cause of heel pain by conducting a number of tests. These may include X-rays and electronic imaging tests. If you are suffering from heel pain and are unsure of the cause, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist today.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Rosa Roman of Ankle and Foot Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

Many people, ranging from young children to senior citizens, may like to sit with their legs crossed at the knee while sitting in a chair. Individuals often sit in this position frequently, and it may come naturally. However, sitting in this position for extended periods could potentially have unwelcome health consequences to consider. For example, crossing the legs at the knees while seated can negatively impact their blood circulation. As a result, the weight of one leg on top of the other might impair proper circulation, leading to swelling at the ankles. Such reduced circulation and swelling at the ankles may be paired with leg cramps. In some cases, when an individual sits cross-legged for extended periods, they may have a numbing and tingling sensation. If you sit with your legs crossed, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today who can inform you of how this can negatively affect your health and help you with any problems that may arise.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Rosa Roman of Ankle and Foot Center. 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 Bloomfield, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many people, ranging from young children to senior citizens, may like to sit with their legs crossed at the knee while sitting in a chair. Individuals often sit in this position frequently, and it may come naturally. However, sitting in this position for extended periods could potentially have unwelcome health consequences to consider. For example, crossing the legs at the knees while seated can negatively impact their blood circulation. As a result, the weight of one leg on top of the other might impair proper circulation, leading to swelling at the ankles. Such reduced circulation and swelling at the ankles may be paired with leg cramps. In some cases, when an individual sits cross-legged for extended periods, they may have a numbing and tingling sensation. If you sit with your legs crossed, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today who can inform you of how this can negatively affect your health and help you with any problems that may arise.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Rosa Roman of Ankle and Foot Center. 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 Bloomfield, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many people won't pay attention to their toenails unless there is a change in color or texture. This can happen from having toenail fungus, an unsightly fungal infection of the toenail. The medical name for this ailment is known as tinea pedis and the fungus that causes this lives in warm environments. These can include shower room floors, public swimming pools, and similar areas. Since toenail fungus is contagious it is best to wear appropriate shoes while in these areas. Common symptoms that many patients experience can consist of itchiness between the toes and on the bottom of the feet, and the skin may be red and flaky. One of the first signs a toenail infection may be developing is the discoloration of the toenails. They may change to a yellow or whitish color, and it is beneficial to seek medical attention when this is noticed. If you have signs of having toenail fungus, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition. 

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Rosa Roman of Ankle and Foot Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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