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How an Ankle Replacement Restores Mobility

Ankle replacement is a surgical procedure in which a damaged ankle joint is replaced with an artificial implant to restore function and reduce pain. The surgery is performed under anesthesia, allowing the surgeon to remove diseased or injured bone and cartilage before placing the prosthetic joint. Common causes that may lead to ankle replacement include severe arthritis, bone fractures, infections, and tumors that compromise joint integrity. Symptoms often include chronic pain, stiffness, and limited mobility that do not respond to conservative treatments. A podiatrist can evaluate ankle health, determine if replacement is appropriate, coordinate appropriate care and manage post-operative recovery. If you have an ankle condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this type of foot surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. John Branwell of Kearny, New Jersey. Our doctor will assist you with all of 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 alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

  • Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
  • 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 Kearny, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Foods That May Help to Reduce the Risk of Gout

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. It commonly affects the big toe, leading to sudden and intense pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the joint. The discomfort may develop quickly and become severe enough to limit walking. Foods high in purines, such as red meat, shellfish, and sugary beverages, can increase uric acid levels and trigger flare ups. Choosing fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and adequate water intake may help to reduce risk. Maintaining a healthy weight also supports prevention. A podiatrist can diagnose gout, manage pain, and recommend treatment to protect joint health. If you have developed gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. John Branwell from Kearny, New Jersey. 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 Kearny, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Everything You Need to Know About Gout

Important Factors for Choosing Running Shoes

Picking the right running shoes is essential for comfort, injury prevention, and performance. The outsole is the bottom layer of the shoe, and provides traction durability and grip on different surfaces. The midsole sits above the outsole and offers cushioning, shock absorption, and stability during each step. Some running shoes include a carbon plate which adds propulsion energy return and efficiency for faster running. The tread pattern affects how the shoe grips the ground and can influence control on roads, trails, or tracks. Choosing the right combination of factors depends on foot type, gait, and running goals. A podiatrist can help by evaluating foot structure, movement patterns, and training needs to recommend proper footwear or custom inserts. If you have foot pain from running shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on the right shoes to wear for your running style.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact Dr. John Branwell from Kearny, New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

  • Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
  • There should be little to no slipping at the heel
  • Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
  • Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
  • Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

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

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Hazards of Wearing High Heels and Foot Health

Wearing high heels can create daily hazards by increasing the risk of tripping and falling due to reduced stability and altered balance. They can be painful by placing excess pressure on the forefoot, tightening the Achilles tendon, and limiting natural foot motion. Over time, this strain may lead to foot conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, and neuromas, in addition to plantar fasciitis, ankle sprains, and stress injuries. Pain may also extend to the knees, hips, and lower back. A podiatrist can help by evaluating foot mechanics, treating existing conditions, recommending supportive footwear options, and providing custom orthotics or preventive care plans. If high heels are affecting your comfort or mobility, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot and ankle conditions, and guide you on the correct type of shoes to wear. 

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. John Branwell from Kearny, New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

  • Ankle Joints
  • Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
  • Balls of the Feet
  • Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
  • Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

  • Corns
  • Calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Morton’s Neuroma
  • Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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

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Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

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