Items filtered by date: October 2022

Occasionally, flat feet do not self-correct during childhood but move into adulthood, which may cause pain and discomfort. Those who enjoy working out may find their workouts are compromised as a result of living with flat feet. An effective workout for the legs consists of performing squats, and flat feet may cause the lower part of the leg to roll inward, thus affecting the benefits of this exercise. Flat feet may be improved when the foot structure is strengthened to rebuild the arch. An effective exercise that may help consists of pushing hard on the bone at the bottom of the big toe while trying to create an arch as the toe is pushed down. This is an isometric exercise when held for 20 seconds and frequently repeated. If you would like to acquire more information about how having flat feet can affect your workouts, in addition to learning about strength training foot exercises, please confer with a podiatrist who can help you with any questions you may have.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Caldwell, and Galloway, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The movements that are done by walking and running are very different. People who enjoy running will often buy shoes that are different from those who like to walk. One of the main differences between these two types of shoes is the soles. Running shoes have a thicker heel area and a stiffer sole, which provides adequate stability while remaining lightweight. In comparison, walking shoes have a sole that is flexible and heels that are heavier. The materials that comprise running shoes are made of breathable fabrics, and this is to accommodate sweaty feet that can occur while running. Substantial material is often used when constructing walking shoes, and the heel is tilted so the feet can retain an angle while landing on the ground. Extra padding can be found in running shoes, despite being lighter in weight than most other footwear. If you are interested in pursuing walking or running as a sport or hobby, it is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward what type of shoes to purchase.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

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

Foot therapy can be a relaxing and rewarding experience. It falls into two categories consisting of foot massages and reflexology. The latter is done by stimulating the energy channels in the body by touching the feet in specific areas. There are parts of the foot that are connected to various organs and bones and can interact with the tissues in the feet. When a foot massage is given, it is generally more direct and may be helpful in relieving tight muscles. Additionally, circulation may be improved, and existing soreness may be reduced. Many people enjoy having reflexology performed on them as it can bring positive feelings to the overall body. The digestive system may be improved in addition to having increased energy. If you would like to know more information about the benefits of foot therapy, please confer with a podiatrist .

Foot therapy is often necessary for those recovering from either foot deformities or foot injuries. If you have concerns regarding therapy, consult with Dr. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Most Common Injuries

People who are active or athletes are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is often important to take part in physical therapy in order to quickly get back on the right track. 

What to Do When Injured

Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.

During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. Physical therapy often involves:

Basic stretching and twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.

Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.

Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Caldwell, and Galloway, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Preventing a fall is paramount for seniors, and luckily experts can recommend a number of ways to do just that. Fall-proofing the home environment is first on the list. Start by decluttering floors and narrow hallways, and choose chairs that are stable. Avoid sitting on low chairs, sofas, folding chairs, and chairs on wheels that may affect your balance. Install nightlights in hallways and lamps beside your bed, as well as adding grab bars in tub and shower areas. Remove throw rugs or loose carpeting. Other fall prevention tips include wearing shoes with non-skid soles, avoiding loose clothing that may get caught on something, and going barefoot or wearing just socks when walking in the house. Further, it’s a good idea to review medications for side-effects, such as dizziness or drowsiness, that may contribute to a fall. Having eyeglasses prescriptions updated is recommended. If you have neuropathy, arthritis, or any other foot and ankle conditions that affect your stability when standing or walking, please visit a podiatrist for information on walking aids or devices that may help.

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. Douglas Mckay from New Jersey . 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 one of our offices located in Caldwell, and Galloway, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.