Blog Archives
Anonymous Runner Participates in Boston Marathon Barefoot
Although thousands of runners come out each year to support and participate in the Boston Marathon, one particular runner from India ran the entire 26.2 miles barefoot. Although many people believe running the entire marathon without shoes is absolutely insane, this particular runner completed it with ease. The runner stated to a spectator who then put his image on social media stating the run was, “an incredible experience.
” Luckily the weather was damp and cool the day of the marathon to keep his feet from burning on hot pavement. Barefoot running, although increasingly popular is not for everyone. For more information on barefoot running, contact podiatrist Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Footcare NY. Our doctor can treat your foot and ankle needs.
Barefoot Running
Barefoot running is a fairly popular trend in the running world. More than just simply ‘running without shoes,” barefoot running affects the way your feet hit the ground and your overall posture. Barefoot runners land on the front part of their feet as opposed to those who wear shoes, who usually strike their heel as they hit the ground.
Barefoot running contains many advantages, including:
- A lower risk for ankle and foot injuries
- Improvement in balance and body posture
- Strengthens muscles in the lower legs, ankles and feet that are not normally worked when wearing shoes
There are also some disadvantages to barefoot running, which include:
- Lack of shoes increases the risk of incurring blisters, scrapes, bruises and cuts
- Risk of Achilles tendonitis as a result of landing on the front of your feet constantly
- Needing time and transition to adjust as the switch cannot be automatic
Start on even, flat surfaces and consider investing in minimalist running shoes. Minimalist running shoes provide the ‘feel’ of barefoot running while affording the same protection you get from wearing shoes. Barefoot running can be safe and enjoyable with the proper planning and transition.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about barefoot running.
Tips to avoid Toenail Fungus
U.S. News and World Report have come up with a few health tips in avoiding toenail fungus. Make sure feet are treated regularly, carefully wash them with soap and water daily and dry them fully. In college bathrooms or gym showers, wear flip-flops or shower shoes and change socks every day. It is also a good idea to avoid socks made out of synthetic material, socks or hosiery made out of cotton allows the foot to breath, keeping moisture away from the foot and toenails.
When grooming the nails, keep the toenails trimmed and in a straight line, disinfect the clippers and other tools, and avoid trying to cover any existing fungus with nail polish.
While toenail fungus is troublesome to eradicate, it is not impossible. For more information about treatment, consult with Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Foot Care NY. Our doctor will attend to all of your podiatric needs.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a problem which affects many people and is hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating toenail fungus.
Antibiotics & Treatments
Lamisil – is the most commonly effective treatment for toenail fungus. It is available as an antibiotic Terbinafine tablet and cream. Terbinafine is a chemical component which kills fungal growth on the body. Applying regular doses will gradually kill the fungal growth. It is important to keep the area clean and air free.
Talcum powder – applying powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well
Alternative Treatments
There are always surgical procedures that are available for toenail fungus. Some people would like immediate quick removal of toenail fungus. Surgeons will be able to cut through and remove the growth using laser surgery. It is important not to try and remove it yourself. Once removed, your old shoes will need to be replaced to avoid reinfection.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
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Auburn Cornerback to Miss the Season Practice Due to Foot Surgery
Jonathan Jones of Auburn has been cut out of the rest of spring season practice due to surgery on his foot. The team’s top cornerback’s surgery was reported by Auburn Undercover and the senior has already missed most of the season’s practices. Last season Jones had 36 tackles, six interceptions, and 11 pass breakups making him a very valuable player. Although the player’s injury is not clear, he is expected to return by the start of the season.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to fix a foot ailment. If you have any concerns about your foot and ankle needs contact Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Foot Care NY. Our doctor will treat 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 help with the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary are:
- Removing foot deformities like bone spurs and bunions
- 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 Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about foot surgery.
The Standing Desk is the New Way to Work Out and Work
The standing desk has recently taken office culture by storm for those that work regular nine to five hours and do not have the time to go to the gym every day.
Experts say that this drastic change can have positive effects on overall health, but new pains in the feet may appear. Foot health professionals suggest that those making the change alternate between sitting and standing each day to balance the body and avoid any injuries. It is also important to adjust office footwear; wearing comfortable flat shoes will be a better idea than wearing high heels all day.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet contact Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Footcare NY. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Working on Your Feet
Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.
Positive Changes
Negative heeled shoe – choosing this shoe places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.
Go barefoot – our feet were not designed to be enclosed for hours, or all day. Try allowing yourself to expose your feet to air.
Eliminate Pain
Foot Exercises – performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and stretches is beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.
Achilles tendon – stretching the foot out flat on the floor, will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.
With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.
Keep your feet healthy and your body will thank you for it.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Regular Foot Screenings Important in Catching Foot Issues Early
According to Christina Drummond of the Star Press getting regular foot screenings is important to catch foot problems early, especially in those dealing with diabetes or obesity. Those suffering from obesity and diabetes are at an increased risk of circulation problems that can lead to amputation or other health problems.
Foot screenings involve an examination of the color and condition of the skin and by discussing any problems the patient may be having. Podiatrists can also use ultrasound technology to examine the blood flow in the foot and through the main arteries to identify any issues.
Any additional problems in the feet of those with obesity can be detrimental to foot health. If you have any concerns about your feet contact podiatrist Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Footcare NY. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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.
Solutions
Footwear – Specially made footwear that supports your joints, arches, and ankles, and allows room for good circulation is a great option to mitigate pressure and pain. A podiatrist will help you decide what works best for your specific needs.
Exercise – Exercise will help alleviate the pain and give your feet the strength it needs to support your body. Exercise also increases blood flow to your feet, allowing them to remain healthy and strong.
Most importantly, seek the help of a podiatrist for foot care if something is wrong or doesn’t seem to be working. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Katy Perry Receives Cupping Therapy for her Foot Pain
For years celebrities have been seen with cupping marks all over their backs and necks to reduce shoulder pain, but now Katy Perry is the latest celeb to use cupping in a new way: for her feet. Celebrities are always seen walking the red carpet with drastically high heels that can cause pain in many parts of the foot; the singer is getting treated for pain on the balls of the feet.
The therapy treatment is said to detoxify the body and improve circulation. The star even posted a photo to social media stating, “Getting my foot cupped cause: fashion week.”
Foot therapy is a good idea for those with chronic pain and to recovery from foot injuries. To get consultation for foot therapy, contact Dr. Moshe Hillel of New York. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Most common injuries
People who are constantly on their feet are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is important to take part in physical therapy in order to get back on the right track quickly.
What to do when injured
Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. This is important for those wanting to get back into the game quickly. 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. These are some steps physical therapy often involves:
- Basic stretching & 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.
With the advancements in technology and greater knowledge of how muscles and joints work, physical therapists can turn things around dramatically.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Jockey Out until May due to Broken Ankle
For the third time in her career, New Plymouth Jockey Vanessa Johnston has been forced to the sidelines due to a broken ankle. The incident occurred when the 27-year-old fell from her horse at the New Plymouth track. Although the Johnston had started the season off slowly, she felt as though things had started to go well, winning the Feilding Gold Cup, the Eulogy Stakes, and the Levin Stakes so far this season. The night of the injury, the jockey had spent the night in the hospital with a plaster cast and will spend the rest of the time recovering. “I’ll be in a moon boot for five weeks…I hope to be back riding in May,” Johnston stated.
Broken ankles are extremely painful and inconvenient. If you have any questions about broken ankles contact Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Footcare NY. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
- Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
- Swelling around the area
- Bruising of the area
- Area appears to be deformed
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Wooden Clogs Help Sustain Dutch Tradition in Orange City
When he was a teenager, William Van Marel, Jr. took up a rather unusual hobby. Under the instruction of his neighbor and the local shoemaker, Wilhelm Jansen, Van Marel carved traditional Dutch wooden clogs, or klompen, out of basswood harvested from the nearby woods.
After moving to Iowa in 1956, Jansen began shipping his wooden clogs across the United States. At the same time the Orange City shoemaker crafted shoes locally, fitting townspeople as well as the Pride of the Dutchmen, the local marching band. Jansen carves his klompen according to the wearer’s needs, physically modifying his wooden shoes to aid foot problems such as bunions or high arches.
Since Jansen’s passing thirty years ago in June, Van Marel has now taken it upon himself to keep the tradition alive.
Proper foot support is of utmost in importance in foot health. For information regarding appropriate footwear or other podiatric issues, consult with Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Footcare NY. Our doctors will provide you with your foot and ankle needs.
The Importance of Proper Foot Support
Walking is an everyday function for both men and women, and in order to keep your body’s balance in order, you are going to need shoes that provide the proper kinds of support.
Poor foot support can cause pain and discomfort in the lower back, hips, knees, neck and shoulder. It also can lead to emotional stress, and physiological changes in the body. In order to avoid these problems, you must have proper foot support.
The arch is the most important part of the foot, which is where most of the support and balance of your feet lies. The arch of your foot varies in height, and as you age, this height can change. Proper foot support will help musculoskeletal issues, which causes inactivity or disability.
When looking for shoes that give proper support to your feet, you should refrain from wearing ill-fitting shoes. If footwear is too tight, this can affect the body’s posture, stress, bone deformities, and other foot and back pain. Therefore, it is important that shoes fit well in order to avoid these complications.
For more information about the Importance of Proper Foot Support, follow the link below.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Tips to Relieve Swollen Feet and Ankles during Pregnancy
During pregnancy many women experience swelling of the feet, ankles, and other parts of the body; this swelling is known as edema or the buildup of the fluid inside of the tissues. Bold Sky has come up with a few ways to reduce swelling to make pregnancy a little bit easier. The consumption of salt is known to cause fluid retention in the body so drinking a lot of water and cutting down on salt intake will aid in the reduction of edema. When possible, rest your legs on an area that will make them higher than your waist when lying down. This will help stimulate the blood flow in the legs in feet. Try avoiding heat or adding a cold compress to the mix for added comfort and swelling reduction.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, speak to Dr. Moshe Hille of Advanced Footcare NY. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle concerns and answer any of your related questions.
What foot problems can arise during pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is over-pronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy, but tends to occur in the later stages.
How can I keep my feet healthy during pregnancy?
• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technologies to meet all your needs.
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University of Calgary to Develop New Study
Runners have often chosen footwear that is specifically tailored to their unique biomechanics with the wisdom of sports medicine specialists. However, some modern scientists dispute this notion; believing comfort is the most important attribute of a running shoe. Proponents of the comfort theory maintain that other details, including biomechanics, are rather minor.
To try and settle this debate, scientists at the University of Calgary are working on a new study. This study will focus on the effects of comfort in running shoes and the rate at which runners develop injuries. The ultimate goal of this study is to provide shoe developers with tips for future shoe designs.
For optimal foot health, you should understand the differences between walking and running shoes. If you have any foot or ankle injuries, see Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Footcare NY. Our doctor can treat your foot and ankle needs.
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.
For more information about the Differences between Walking and Running Shoes, follow the link below.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact our office in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technologies to meet all your needs.
Read more about the Differences between Walking and Running Shoes
Treatment for Plantar Wart Sufferers
Plantar warts are typically hard and grainy growths that appear on the heels and balls of the feet. Warts occur when the human papilloma virus (HPV) enters your body through cuts or weak spots on the bottom of the feet. Once plantar warts start to grow, they can take as long as two years to go away if not treated. Luckily there are plenty of treatments to reduce, remove, and prevent the inconvenience. Cryotherapy, also known as freezing therapy, is the most widely used method is removing warts, but it may not always work if the treatment does not reach the entire wart. Over-the-counter salicylic acids and prescription medications are also available aid wart removal process. If a plantar wart is particularly thick, a mixture of cryotherapy and salicylic acid treatments may ultimately do the trick.Plantar warts can be painful and can worsen if not treated properly. If you would like to be treated for plantar warts, consult with Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Footcare NY. Dr. Hillel will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.
About Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are found on the feet. These warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) getting into open wounds on the feet. You can recognize plantar warts by a hard bump on the foot. They are usually found on the heels or balls of the feet. Plantar warts are usually not a sign of anything dangerous but do not ignore them if they do cause pain or embarrassment.
If you do have a plantar wart, you may notice some pain when standing but since these warts are not cancerous or dangerous, a podiatrist only needs to be seen if there is excess pain. Although plantar warts don’t often call for treatment, there are options available. They can be frozen off, removed by an electric tool or burned off using laser treatment.
Home remedies are also available to help with plantar warts. An apple cider vinegar soak can help remove the wart. You can soak your feet in the vinegar for 20 minutes before using a pumice stone to remove any loose skin from the wart.
For more information about Plantar Warts, follow the link below.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Plantar Warts
Tips to Manage and Prevent Heel Pain
According to podiatrist Christian Ellul, heel pain is one of the most regularly diagnosed foot problems in women. One of the most common forms of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, inflammation of the band of tissue in the sole that extends to the heels. Although plantar fasciitis can be treated with anti-inflammatories, cortisone injections, footwear is also a major issue. Extremely high heels as well as unsupportive footwear such as flip-flops and flats can make heel pain and other related conditions even worse. Podiatrists may recommend wearing arch supportive footwear, stretching exercises, orthotic devices, and other corrective foot aids to aid patients in managing their everyday heel pain.
Anyone can wind up suffering from heel pain. If your heel is hurting, see Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Footcare NY. Dr. Hillel will treat your heel pain symptoms in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
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 thing of the past.
With the advancements in technology and greater knowledge of how muscles and joints work, physical therapists can turn things around dramatically.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
New York Woman undergoes Cinderella Surgery to remove Bunion
35-year-old New York City resident Denise Maione-Schwind has undergone ‘Cinderella surgery,’ or a Bunionplasty, to correct the bony bump on the side of her left foot that has been keeping her from comfortably wearing high heels. Determined not to wear flats on a night out, the flight attendant would often spend her evenings at home to avoid pain caused by the bunion. Despite the severity of the procedure, Denise was able to walk within a week. Since having fully recovered, Denise now happily wears any shoe she desires without having to endure any pain. The NYC resident even hopes to one day run the New York Marathon, which would have been a difficult and painful feat prior to surgery.
To avoid extended pain, consider bunion treatment as soon as possible. For more information about bunion treatments, consult with Dr. Moshe Hillel of Advanced Footcare NY. Dr. Hillel will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What is a Bunion?
A bunion is an enlargement of the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The enlargement is formed of swollen tissue or boney growth. This swelling is caused by a shifting of the bones in the big toe inward, impacting the other toes of the foot. The area around the base of the big toe may become inflamed, red, and/or painful.
Formation
Genetics – people who are susceptible to bunions are often genetically predisposed.
Stress on the feet – wearing improperly fitting shoes or running and walking with improper form may cause stress on the feet. Wearing high heeled shoes puts the weight from the body onto the toes, causing further stress and bone displacement.
Diagnosis
A podiatrist who specializes in foot structure and bio-mechanics will be able to diagnose bunions.
Blood Tests - testing the blood for gout or arthritic conditions can help identify the causes.
Radiological Exam – a podiatrist will request an exam to identify the bunion by taking a look at the bone structure. If the x-ray shows an enlargement of the joint near the base of the toe, this usually indicates a bunion.
For more information about Bunions, follow the link below.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Brooklyn, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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