Items filtered by date: August 2024

Falls in the workplace can occur due to various factors, such as wet or uneven floors, cluttered walkways, and inadequate lighting. Tasks that involve heights or slippery surfaces can also pose significant risks. To prevent these falls, it is essential to implement safety measures such as using appropriate personal protective equipment, or PPE, and slip-resistant footwear. PPE such as harnesses and helmets can protect workers from falls from heights, while slip-resistant footwear provides better traction on potentially hazardous surfaces. Additionally, maintaining a clean and organized work environment, ensuring proper lighting, and regularly inspecting floors and walkways contribute to a safer workplace. If you have sustained a fall while working and have injured your foot, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions.

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 Wendy K. Stinson, DPM from New Jersey. 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 Parsippany-Troy Hills, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, often resulting in noticeable discomfort. Visually, it appears as redness, swelling, and tenderness around the edge of the toenail, which may become inflamed or infected if left untreated. In some cases, pus or a discharge might be visible. The primary sensation is sharp, throbbing pain along the affected area, which can worsen when pressure is applied, such as from walking or wearing tight shoes. The discomfort can range from mild irritation to severe pain, making it difficult to perform daily activities. Treatment for an ingrown toenail starts with home remedies like soaking the foot in warm, soapy water to reduce inflammation and soften the nail. Gently lifting the edge of the nail with a cotton ball or dental floss may help. Wearing comfortable, well-fitting shoes is important. If symptoms persist or show signs of infection, it is suggested you contact a podiatrist for possible surgical intervention or prescription treatments.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Wendy K. Stinson, DPM of New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

Hammertoes are a deformity where one or more smaller toes bend downward at the middle joint, creating a hammer-like appearance. This condition often results from an imbalance in the muscles and tendons that control toe movement, which can cause the toes to curl and become rigid. Common causes include wearing poorly fitting shoes that squeeze the toes or having a high foot arch that contributes to muscle imbalance. Risk factors also include genetic predisposition, conditions such as arthritis, and prolonged periods of standing or walking. Addressing hammertoes typically involves wearing well-fitting, supportive footwear, using orthotic devices, and performing exercises to stretch and strengthen the toes. In severe cases, surgery may be needed. If you notice signs of a hammertoe developing, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment strategies.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Wendy K. Stinson, DPM from New Jersey. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Parsippany-Troy Hills, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Working on your feet all day can lead to significant foot pain, but there are several strategies to alleviate discomfort. Start by wearing supportive, well-fitted shoes with good arch support and cushioning to reduce strain on your feet. Custom orthotic inserts can provide additional support tailored to your foot's unique shape. Take regular breaks to sit down and rest your feet, even if it is just for a few minutes. Stretching exercises, such as calf stretches and toe flexes, can improve flexibility and reduce muscle tension. Incorporate foot massages and rolling your feet over a tennis ball to relieve pressure points and enhance circulation. Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the stress on your feet. At the end of the day, elevate your feet to decrease swelling. If foot pain persists, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan for more tips and to address any underlying issues.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Wendy K. Stinson, DPM from New Jersey. 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 Parsippany-Troy Hills, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.