Items filtered by date: August 2015
Study Finds Link between Acne and RA
According to research conducted by scientists at the Leiden University Medical Centre in Holland, rheumatoid arthritis may be triggered through a microbial infection. Researcher Diahann Jansen has stated that the study shows common bacteria in the flu virus as well as acne. “It doesn’t necessarily mean if you get acne you will get rheumatoid arthritis, but it is possible that if you encounter such a pathogen at some point your immune system will start a response to that pathogen,” stated Jansen. This new discovery is only the beginning in understanding the relationship between microbes and rheumatoid arthritis.
Understanding where RA starts will help treat and prevent the condition. If you are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis contact, Dr. Michael E. Newman and Dr. Denise Kohler of Pennsylvania. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Severe pain and immobility are caused by an inflammation of the lining of your joints, and in worse cases the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone can occur.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, many cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area. Pain will often initially present in the toes before the condition worsens and spreads throughout the entire foot.
Symptoms
- Swelling and pain in the feet
- Stiffness in the feet
- Pain on the ball or sole of the feet
- Joint shift and deformation
Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that your podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor may ask you about your medical history and lifestyle to help determine possible causes of your RA.
Treatment
Unfortunately, there is no cure for RA, so treatment options are designed to specifically target the symptoms of it, most notably the pain it causes. Two types of anti-inflammatory drugs – non-steroidal or NSAIDs and corticosteroids – may be prescribed by your doctor. In some severe cases where the joints are too badly damaged, surgery may be an option. As always, speak with your podiatrist to help determine the appropriate treatment options available to you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Plymouth Meeting and Ambler, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
The Wide Variety of Running Shoes Today Allows Everyone to Find the Proper Fit
In the past couple of years, the running shoe market has skyrocketed with nearly thirty-five legitimate running shoe models currently for sale in the United States this year. Experts claim this may be occurring because we live in fitness conscious society where there is a high appeal for running shoes. Since running has become a more accessible form of exercise more people than ever before are interested in purchasing the proper shoe for their foot type.
The right running shoe is essentially different for every person. If you have any concerns feel free to contact Dr. Michael E. Newman and Dr. Denise Kohler of Pennsylvania. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Choosing the Right Running Shoes for Your Foot Type
Running is a physical activity although fun, can put a lot of stress on the joints, bones and ligaments of the body. Injury and stress on the foot can be an important factor on which kind of shoe you’re wearing. Running shoes should be worn based on your foot type. It is important to find out what fits you based on cushioning, stability and motion.
Determining your type
Speak with a shoe specialist or retail professional to see what your foot type is. They will be able to identify and measure your arch type, stride and gait.
Running Mechanics
When you are running or walking in your shoes, every step determines how your foot is landing. Pronation is the natural rolling of your ankle from outside to inside during foot strike.
Pronation is a correct form of walking or running. It helps absorb shock and store energy from your lower extremities. Neutral runners who pronate correctly do not need specific shoes, since they have stability and control.
Over-pronators
Those who run with excessive ankle rolling. Over-pronators tend to have ankles that angle inward, flat feet, and or bowed legs. This can cause a series of injuries: of the knees, ankles and Achilles tendons.
Under-pronation
Under-pronation is less common than over-pronation. This usually happens to those who have inflexible feet and high arches. Even though there is less rotational stress on the ankles and knees, it prevents any kind of shock absorptions. Under-pronation needs shoes with increase in cushion and flexibility.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Plymouth Meeting and Ambler, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Australian Surgeons Try Out Less Invasive Surgical Method for Bunions
Australian surgeons are now practicing minimally invasive surgery for bunions to reduce the amount of pain and recovery time for patients. Michelle Thacker of North South Wales experienced both minimally invasive surgery and traditional bunion surgery for the bunions on her left and right feet. The difference between the two are that minimally invasive surgeries include multiple smaller 3mm incisions with the bunion drilled and realigned with screws; traditional surgeries involve one large incision. After the second bunion surgery involving minimally invasive surgery, Thacker stated, “The recovery time was much quicker - a lot less pain post op, I can barely see a scar and I was able to run after three months.”
Bunion surgery usually occurs after non-surgical methods have proved to be ineffective. If you have any concerns contact Dr. Michael E. Newman of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What is a Bunion?
A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs by the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.
Why do Bunions Form?
- Genetics – susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
- Stress on the feet – poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can cause bunions to form
How are Bunions Diagnosed?
- Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
- Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
- Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
- Orthotics or foot inserts
- Surgery
Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.
How are Bunions Treated?
If you have any concerns please feel free to contact our offices located in Plymouth Meeting and Ambler, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Cleveland Browns’ Billy Winn Carried Off the Field due to Sprained Ankle
Billy Winn of the Cleveland Browns has been diagnosed with a sprained right ankle after being examined by a trainer and then carted off the playing field. Winn is a defensive lineman who was a part of the Cleveland Browns’ high hopes for a strong defense this season. The unfortunate occurrence comes after the lineman was praised as one of the team’s emerging players. “We’re looking for big things, not just from him but the whole (defensive line) room,” said Pettine of Winn. “I think the competition is really going to force that room to work.” In light of the injury, the Browns have announced that Winn will be examined on a weekly basis.
Ankle sprains are common, but need immediate attention. If you have any concerns about your potential ankle sprain contact Dr. Michael E. Newman and Dr. Denise Kohler of Pennsylvania. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What are the Symptoms?
- Mild to moderate bruising
- Limited mobility
- Swelling
- Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)
Preventing a Sprain
- Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
- Stretching before exercises and sports
- Knowing your limits can aid in prevention
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Plymouth Meeting and Ambler, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Steps to Cope with Arthritis
Arthritis affects approximately 52 million people in the United States—and these are the people officially diagnosed by a physician. Those suffering from arthritis and its symptoms, however, can benefit from several steps to help cope with the condition. The first steps one can take involve learning more about the condition, knowing what kind of arthritis one has, and responding to prolonged symptoms by seeing a physician. Excess weight can add pressure on the joints—especially the feet; therefore exercising, losing weight, and leading an active lifestyle is important. Protect the joints by avoiding using the same joints constantly and alternating movement. Rest and relaxation is also important to avoid straining affected areas.
The feet are one of the most common sites for arthritis to occur in the body. If you are struggling with arthritis in your feet or ankles, call Dr. Michael E. Newman and Dr. Denise Kohler of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can examine your lower extremities to help alleviate your joint pain.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves inflammation of different joints in your body, such as in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. On top of this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.
In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.
Alleviating Arthritic Pain
- Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
- Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
- Massages can help to temporarily alleviate pain.
It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Plymouth Meeting and Ambler, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all of your foot ankle injuries.
