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Is a Career in Podiatry a Good Choice for Me?

Tuesday, 26 May 2020

The field of medicine which is referred to as podiatry involves diagnosing and treating foot conditions. These can include plantar fasciitis, ingrown toenails, corns, and ankle injuries. Mandatory education consists of obtaining a bachelor's degree, followed by enrolling in a school of podiatric medicine. This program typically takes four years to complete, and then the student becomes a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) after three years of working in a residency environment. Residencies often include working at hospitals, where surgical and medical experience can be achieved. Many podiatrists can prescribe medication, perform foot and ankle surgery, and treat diabetic patients. If you are interested in pursuing a career in podiatry, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can address any questions you may have.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact Dr. Janet Leicht from New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
Use innovative methods to treat conditions
Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
Correct walking patterns and balance
Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

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

What Is a Blister?

Monday, 18 May 2020

The healing time for blisters that develop on the feet is approximately one week. They can form as the body naturally heals the skin that has become damaged. A small bubble that is filled with fluid will form on the exposed skin. This protects the skin as the healing process occurs, and new skin forms. The most common reason why blisters develop is from excessive friction, which may come from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Additional reasons can include having feet that sweat for the majority of the day, or from medical conditions that can consist of psoriasis and eczema. It is beneficial to cover the blister with an elastic bandage, as this may help to protect it from draining prematurely. If you have a blister on your foot, please consider consulting with a podiatrist who can help you avoid an infection.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Janet Leicht of New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

Bubble of skin filled with fluid
Redness
Moderate to severe pain
Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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

Crutches May Aid a Broken Foot

Monday, 11 May 2020

Approximately one quarter of the bones in the body are located in the feet. The feet bear the weight of the body, and may fracture easier than other bones. An important goal in managing symptoms is to keep the affected foot elevated, as this may help to alleviate some of the existing swelling and pressure. It is beneficial to keep as much of the weight off of the foot as possible, which can be accomplished by using crutches. Some patients may find it helpful to wear a boot, which may help to protect and stabilize the foot as the healing process takes place. If you feel you have broken your foot, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose the extent of the fracture as quickly as possible, and start the proper treatment for you.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Janet Leicht from New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

Bruising
Pain
Redness
Swelling
Blue in color
Numbness
Cold
Misshapen
Cuts
Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

Tarsal Tunnel and the Tibial Nerve

Monday, 04 May 2020

There is a specific nerve that is known as the tibial nerve which is located inside the tarsal tunnel. It is found inside the ankle, and is surrounded by bone and tissue. If inflammation of this nerve occurs as a result of an injury, it is referred to as tarsal tunnel syndrome. Some of the symptoms that patients may experience can range from a burning or numbing sensation, to sharp, shooting pains. Existing medical conditions that may contribute to tarsal tunnel syndrome may include arthritis, flat feet, and diabetes. Additionally, it may develop as a result of an ankle sprain or fracture, which can initiate swelling to the tibial nerve. If you have symptoms of this nature, please consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and manage this condition as quickly as possible.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Janet Leicht of New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Saturday, 02 May 2020

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

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