The majority of pregnant women notice their feet undergo changes during this time in their lives. There are hormones that are produced during pregnancy, which may cause the ligaments in the feet to loosen. The added weight from the growing fetus may cause the ankles to swell, and the arches may flatten. It is beneficial to wear shoes that fit correctly, are comfortable, and it is helpful to refrain from wearing high heels. Maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in a gentle exercise routine may help to reduce the swelling in the feet and ankles. Many women notice their shoe size becomes larger while they are pregnant, and it is beneficial to properly measure your feet to determine what the correct size is. Drinking plenty of water daily and wearing compression stockings may help the feet to feel better, which may improve the quality of this time period. If you are pregnant, and have questions about how to reduce swollen feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can address any concerns you may have.

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, consult with Dr. Kenneth Donovan from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, 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 one of our offices located in Warren, Livingston, and Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many people take their feet for granted until they begin to hurt. The feet are the foundation and carry the entire weight of the body, making it possible to walk, run, and jump. Having foot cramps can wreak havoc on the day. They can cause pain and discomfort, and it may be difficult to walk. A common reason why foot cramps may happen from wearing shoes that are too tight. This may cause limited movement in the feet, possibly leading to foot and muscle cramps. Dehydration may be another reason why foot cramps may occur. Lack of water may cause the muscles to malfunction, and this may also result in foot cramps. This type of foot pain may be avoided when a routine stretching and exercise regime is practiced. Strong foot muscles help to keep the body balanced, and it is beneficial to avoid overstretching, which may lead to foot fatigue. If you have foot cramps, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer you the correct relief options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Kenneth Donovan from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

The field of podiatry has become popular in recent years. Research has shown people are living longer, and elderly patients often have foot conditions that need to be tended to. A podiatrist is a medical professional that treats a wide variety of foot and ankle ailments, ranging from hammertoe to broken ankles. Additional responsibilities can include performing foot and ankle surgery, prescribing medications, and attending conferences to keep informed of the latest podiatric advances. The mandatory education requirements begin with obtaining a bachelor's degree, followed by enrolling in a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine program for four years and earning a DPM degree. The last step is to begin a residency program where medical and surgical experience is gained at a hospital. In addition to these educational needs, it is beneficial for future podiatrists to have compassion, interpersonal skills, and be detail-oriented. Podiatry can be a gratifying field of medicine, and if you are considering this as a career option, it is suggested that you confer with this type of doctor who can help you to determine if this is right for you.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact Dr. Kenneth Donovan from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

• Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
• Use innovative methods to treat conditions
• Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
• Correct walking patterns and balance
• Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

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

Individuals who have poor circulation in the feet are essentially experiencing reduced blood flow to the feet. Symptoms of poor circulation in the feet are varied but can include sensations of tingling and numbness. If you are an individual that drives an automobile for long periods of time, then you might be at an increased risk of experiencing poor circulation in the feet. For example, long-haul drivers spend a significant amount of the work day in a sedentary state. As a result, long-haul truck drivers may experience increased incidences of poor circulation. If you are someone that drives for extended periods of time every day, then it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist. This foot specialist can help you address any issues you might be having. 

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Kenneth Donovan of Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Warren, Livingston, and Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

There are various ways to determine your shoe size and ensure a proper fit. Using a Brannock device is an effective measuring tool that is found in most shoe stores. However, many people opt to know their shoe size before going to the store and this can be accomplished at home. The first step is to trace the foot on a piece of paper while wearing the intended socks. This is followed by using a size conversion chart and matching the length of the traced foot to its corresponding size. When a shoe fits properly, there is adequate room for the toes to move freely, and the heel and midfoot fit snugly. It is beneficial to measure the feet each time new shoes are purchased. The best time of day to measure the feet is in the afternoon when the feet are at their largest. If you would like more information on how to find shoes that fit properly, please speak with your local podiatrist.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Kenneth Donovan from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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

Stretching the feet can be important for a number of different reasons. First, stretching the feet strengthens the muscles in the feet, making them stronger and more resilient. Second, stretching the feet can also improve one’s stability and mobility. Stretching the feet can be accomplished in many different settings, and yoga is one important way. While standing up straight on a yoga mat, an individual can stretch their toes by placing them against a yoga block. Alternatively, a person might stretch their toes while on a mat by placing them on top of a tennis ball. Another important yoga stretch that incorporates the feet is by sitting on one’s knees and tucking the toes under, so that the toes are stretched out onto the yoga mat. If you are someone that wants to perform more foot stretches as part of your daily routine, consider taking up yoga. It is suggested to contact a podiatrist for more information.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. Kenneth Donovan from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. 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 feel free to contact one of our offices located in Warren, Livingston, and Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Some older people shuffle or drag their feet when they walk. There can be a variety of reasons they do this, including weak hip and leg muscles, a prior or imminent health condition (such as dementia or a sign of a stroke), or from a fear of falling and trying to take more cautious steps. Shuffling while walking can increase a senior’s risk of falling because their shoes can catch on the ground, or their feet can slide on rugs or uneven surfaces, and they become unbalanced. As we know, falling can have serious consequences. Gentle flexibility and balance exercises can be tried to attempt to increase strength and to change the shuffling gait.  If you shuffle when you walk, or if you oversee an elderly person who does this, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to determine the cause and treatment necessary.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Kenneth Donovan from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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