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Looking after the feet is crucial for diabetic patients because a minor cut on the bottom of the foot can pose very serious health threats. This can be prevented when the feet are checked every day which can be accomplished by using a mirror. If a family member or caregiver is available, they may be able to help with this task. Additionally, washing and drying the feet is important in maintaining proper foot hygiene, and doing this may stop an infection from entering the body. Diabetes can increase the chances of having poor circulation, foot ulcers, and infections, and there are methods that can be implemented which may help to control this condition. The overall body can be helped by checking blood glucose levels often, in addition to quitting tobacco products for diabetic patients who smoke. Trimming the toenails weekly is important in practicing foot care, and this is often done by a podiatrist. If you have diabetes, it is strongly advised that you visit a podiatrist often, who can help you to manage this condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Genine Befumo, DPM from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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 and ankle needs.

Kohler disease is a rare bone disorder that causes a child’s foot to hurt and swell. This disease usually impacts children between the ages of 3 to 7. Boys are much more likely to be afflicted with Kohler disease than girls. The flow of blood to the navicular bone in the foot is interrupted and there is a progressive degeneration of the bone. Some experts believe it may be related to an injury near the navicular bone and delayed bone formation leading to structural weakness. It can be caused by genetic factors, or it may develop from stress-related compression during a child’s growth period. A child will often limp or walk on the side of their foot because it might hurt them to put weight on it. There may be tenderness along the length of the arch and the affected area may redden. Those with this disorder most often outgrow it and the affected bone regains size, density, and structure. It often resolves itself within three months to two years. Since other disorders can have symptoms similar to those of Kohler disease, treatment can be helpful. If your child is complaining of foot pain or you notice a gait change, contact a podiatrist who can diagnose the problem and offer remedies.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Genine Befumo, DPM of University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Monroe Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
 

When you perspire, it is nature’s way of helping to regulate your body temperature. This is done through the many sweat glands throughout the body, including the toes and feet. When working on your feet, especially if you need to wear work boots, the chances of moisture collecting inside the shoes are multiplied. Keeping the feet dry can pose a challenge, but experts suggest a few ways to do just that. First, choose work boots that are breathable. Obviously, work boots must not only support your feet, but protect them. Some types of work boots are made with mesh linings that can help to keep excess moisture from building up. Also, it is suggested that wearing socks that wick moisture can help to keep your feet dry. Using foot powder and keeping your feet clean are other methods that can work to limit the buildup of bacteria, which can cause foot odor. For more information on the type of work boot that is best for your feet, please see a podiatrist.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Genine Befumo, DPM from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. 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 type 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 all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are 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.

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 and ankle needs.

Falling among the elderly can invoke a horrible fear to the extent that one may decide to limit their daily activities. This can negatively affect one’s quality of life and leave them socially isolated. Upon falling, many endure serious physical injuries that include the feet, making it difficult to walk. There are measures that can be implemented that may help to protect one from falling. These can include removing frayed rugs from the living environment, improving lighting in the household, and wearing shoes that fit correctly. Additionally, it is beneficial to install grab bars in the shower and toilet area, as well as use bath mats that can help to avoid slipping. Engaging in a gentle exercise program can help to strengthen the overall body and this is essential in falls prevention. If you have questions about additional methods that can prevent falling and the potential harm falling can have on the feet, please contact a podiatrist. 

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 Genine Befumo, DPM from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. 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 Monroe Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.