Items filtered by date: November 2023

A sports podiatrist is a healthcare specialist focused on treating and preventing foot and lower limb issues in athletes and other active individuals. They have a deep understanding of how the feet and legs function during physical activities and the specific stresses different sports place on these body parts. The role of a sports podiatrist is vital in enhancing athletic performance and preventing injuries. Sports podiatrists conduct thorough assessments, including gait analysis and biomechanical evaluations, to understand an athlete's foot structure and movement patterns. They offer expert advice on appropriate footwear and can design custom orthotic devices to correct biomechanical imbalances, enhance performance, or prevent injuries. They also treat a range of sports-related foot and ankle problems, ranging from overuse injuries to acute traumas. While all podiatrists can treat sports injuries to some degree, a sports podiatrist offers a more focused expertise in managing and preventing injuries specifically in athletes and those engaged in regular physical activities. If you are an athlete and are experiencing foot or ankle problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who has experience with sports injuries for an evaluation.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM from Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who 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 Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A bunion, or hallux valgus, is a common and often painful foot deformity that affects the joint at the base of the big toe. It manifests as a bony protrusion on the side of the foot, causing the big toe to drift towards the second toe. This misalignment of the joint results in the characteristic bump and can lead to discomfort, inflammation, and difficulty in finding properly fitting footwear. The primary cause of bunions is a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Inherited foot structures that predispose individuals to bunions, like flat feet or low arches, can increase the likelihood of developing this condition. Wearing tight-fitting shoes, particularly those with pointed toes or high heels, can exacerbate the problem or speed up its progression. High levels of stress on the foot or repetitive motion can also contribute to bunion formation. Understanding the causes of bunions is the first step in managing and preventing this condition. When detected early, conservative treatment methods can be helpful. In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the alignment and provide lasting relief. If you have a bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you toward the most appropriate course of treatment based on your specific condition.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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 due to 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 worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

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?

• 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

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

Laser therapy uses focused light to destroy toenail fungus, preventing it from spreading or getting worse. This type of treatment has evolved since the 1980s with various lasers now in use, affecting the success rate for different individuals. Laser treatment can be particularly useful for individuals who cannot take certain medications due to liver or kidney problems, in addition to people with diabetes, and older adults who might not tolerate drugs well. Early treatment of toenail fungus is advised by the CDC to stop the spread of the infection and ensure better results. If not treated, the fungus may spread beyond the toenails. If you have toenail fungus, particularly if it does not resolve with more conservative treatment, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss whether laser treatment may be an option worth considering.

Laser treatment can be an effective way to get rid of toenail fungus. If you have any questions about laser treatment, consult with Howard Abramsohn, DPM from Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment for fungal nails.

What Are Toenail Fungal Infections?

Onychomycosis, or fungal infection of the nail, is a relatively common and non-serious condition. Around 10 percent of U.S. citizens are afflicted with fungal nails. Common forms of fungus that infect the nail include dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds.

Symptoms of Toenail Fungal Infections Include:

• Nail thickening
• Brittleness of the nail
• Discoloration of the nail

Diagnosis for Fungal Nails

Fungal infections are diagnosed by fungal culture and microscopy. This will rule out any other conditions such as nail trauma, psoriasis, lichen planus, and onychogryphosis.

What Is Laser Treatment?

Laser treatment is a non-invasive, safe, quick, and painless procedure that uses the heat from a laser to kill fungus in the nail. Each infected nail is targeted with a laser for several minutes. The treatment is usually utilized several different times over a select period. During this time, a podiatrist will keep an eye on the infection.

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

Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, is a common condition where one or both feet lack the typical arch structure. Instead, the bottom of the foot lies flat on the ground. While babies are initially born with flat feet, their arches generally begin to develop by the age of two or three. However, some people may continue to have flat feet into adulthood. In older children, common symptoms of flat feet include foot or ankle pain, heel or arch pain, and discomfort during walking and running. Adults with flat feet may experience symptoms such as tired or achy feet after prolonged standing, sports activities, or exercise. Many also experience lower back, hip, and knee pain. In children, many cases are attributed to what is called flexible flat feet, a result of loose joint connections and baby fat between the foot bones. This can cause the arch to collapse when the child stands. In adults, flat feet can be linked to factors like weakened or torn tendons, rheumatoid arthritis, midfoot fractures, or ligament injuries. Recognizing the signs and understanding the underlying causes of flat feet is essential for proper management and treatment. If you believe that flat feet are causing health and mobility problems for you or your child, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, a gait assessment, and appropriate treatment options.  

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM from Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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