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May 2021

Thursday, 27 May 2021 00:00

It's Time for Beautiful Feet

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

Monday, 24 May 2021 00:00

Debunking Myths About Orthotics

Orthotics are inserts that can be placed within shoes for many different reasons. They are designed to treat, manage, or prevent a variety of foot problems from plantar fasciitis to flat foot pain. There are multiple myths surrounding the use of orthotics. Some believe that wearing orthotics can weaken the feet. This is not the case, as orthotics are used to support and return normal function to the feet. It is more likely that not wearing orthotics and continuing to suffer with an injury or biomechanical deficit can damage the feet. Orthotics are often thought of as only being necessary for elderly patients or athletes. While both elderly individuals and athletes can certainly benefit from orthotics, these inserts are worn by people of all ages and abilities. To learn more about orthotics and to determine if they may be right for you, please consult with a podiatrist. 

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Dr. Harris L. Klear from Burlington County Podiatry Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Marlton and Delran, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Foot Orthotics
Monday, 17 May 2021 00:00

Ankle Sprains in Athletes

Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments that connect the bones become overstretched or torn. Sprains are one of the most common injuries in sports, and they usually occur when the ankle twists or rolls. Athletes who play sports with a variety of quick changes and directions, such as soccer, football, and basketball, are at a higher risk for developing sprained ankles. Athletes who have previously sprained their ankle are also at a higher risk of re-spraining their ankle as well. Ankle sprains are usually indicated by a “snap” or “crack” at the moment of injury, and bruising and swelling can be present as well. If the sprain is severe, walking and putting weight on the ankle will be difficult.  Because an ankle sprain and a fracture can appear similar, patients who believe they have sprained their ankle should consult with a podiatrist to check the extent of their injury. A podiatrist will be able to prescribe medications to reduce the pain as well as provide treatment options in order to allow the ankle to heal. 

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Dr. Harris L. Klear from Burlington County Podiatry Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Pain at the sight of the tear
  • Bruising/Swelling
  • Ankle area is tender to touch
  • In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
  • Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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

Read more about Ankle Sprains

Runners can sometimes experience different types of foot pain after a run. Pain experienced in the heel or arch—especially in the morning—may be plantar fasciitis. Certain stretches and orthotics may provide some relief, however, if pain persists for more than a couple of weeks, a podiatrist may be able to heal the injury using a variety of therapies. Short-term relief from a bunion may be achieved by using bunion pads. A more lasting solution would be to have the bunion removed by a podiatrist who may also create custom orthotics to avoid bunions from returning. On the top of the foot, pain while running, swelling, or a bump on the tendon may be an indication of extensor tendonitis. Shoes that are too tight, or that create pressure on the top of the foot or are laced too tightly may make this situation worse. Proper stretching, icing, and anti-inflammatories may provide relief, along with professional treatments and custom orthotics. Pain relief from tendonitis along the side of the foot may be lessened by icing and resting, however since stress fractures also cause pain in this area, early detection and professional treatment by a podiatrist is suggested for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Harris L. Klear from Burlington County Podiatry Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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

Read more about Exercise for Your Feet
Monday, 03 May 2021 00:00

A Stabbing Heel Pain

The plantar fascia is a ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. Plantar fasciitis is a condition in which the plantar fascia becomes inflamed, often due to repetitive overuse. When the plantar fascia is injured, it causes heel pain. The pain is often described as “stabbing pain” and is usually worse when taking the first few steps following a period of rest, such as when you first wake up and step out of bed in the morning. Treatments for this condition are typically conservative and involve stretching the feet, wearing orthotics, and rest. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist. 

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Harris L. Klear  from Burlington County Podiatry Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

  • Excessive running
  • Non-supportive shoes
  • Overpronation
  • Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

  • Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
  • Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
  • Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Read more about Plantar Fasciitis
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