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Research has indicated that falling is the top cause of injuries in elderly Americans. There are many medical conditions that may result from falling. These may include hip fractures, brain injuries, in addition to trauma that may affect other parts of the body. There may be measures that can be implemented, which may help to prevent falling. These may include decluttering the home environment, having vision checks regularly, and wearing shoes and clothes that fit properly. Many elderly patients choose to drink plenty of fresh water daily, and this may help to avoid becoming light-headed, which may lead to fainting. If you would like to learn more about how to prevent falls, please consult with a podiatrist who can offer additional 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 one of our podiatrists from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctors 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 East Brunswick and Monroe Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The medical condition that is known as hammertoe will typically affect the second, third, or fourth toe. If you notice a downward bend in the middle joints of those toes, it may often resemble the shape of a hammer. It typically causes pain and discomfort and wearing shoes may be difficult. The causes of hammertoe may include having a genetic trait, or wearing shoes that do not have adequate room in the toe area for the toes to move freely in. Additionally, if an injury has occurred to the toes, this may be a reason for this condition to develop. The toes may be unable to bend, and surgery may be required to permanently straighten the toes. If you are noticing symptoms of hammertoe, it is advised to schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can guide your toward proper treatment.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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

Common symptoms from the condition known as gout may include swelling and tenderness of the big toe. Many patients may also be aware of the severe pain and discomfort gout may cause. It is known to lodge uric acid crystals in the joints, and this generally occurs in the big toe. Elevated uric acid levels in the bloodstream is typically the reason for this condition to develop, and it may be a result of the body’s inability to excrete uric acid via the kidneys. If certain foods are frequently ingested, this may lead to the formation of gout. These can include shellfish, excessive amounts of alcohol, or red meat. There may also be a connection between patients who have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, and the development of gout. If you are suffering from gout, speak to a podiatrist who can prescribe you the proper treatment.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Genine Befumo, DPM from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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