Items filtered by date: November 2024

Ankle osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition where the cartilage in the ankle gradually wears away, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. This form of arthritis commonly affects older adults or individuals with a history of ankle injuries, such as fractures or sprains, as these injuries increase joint stress and cartilage wear. Unlike knee or hip osteoarthritis, which often results from age and weight-bearing stresses, ankle osteoarthritis more frequently follows trauma. Symptoms include swelling, pain during movement, and difficulty walking, which can significantly impact daily activities. Since the ankle’s unique anatomy allows for a wide range of motion, arthritis in this joint can be particularly debilitating. If you have arthritis in your ankle, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer treatments tailored to your specific needs.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Zina Cappiello, DPM from Dr. Zina B. Cappiello DPM, LLC. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

Turf toe, also known as a hyperextension injury of the big toe, occurs when the toe is forcibly bent upward, straining or tearing the ligaments around the joint. This injury is common in athletes, particularly those playing on artificial turf, where shoes can grip too firmly, restricting toe flexibility. Football players, dancers, and gymnasts are especially at risk due to frequent, intense foot movements. Turf toe causes pain, swelling, and bruising at the base of the big toe. Patients often feel a sudden pain when the injury occurs, which worsens with movement, especially when pushing off the toe while walking or running. Treatment includes rest and elevation. Severe cases may require immobilization or even surgery. With proper care, most individuals recover fully, but untreated injuries can lead to long-term stiffness, joint instability, and chronic pain. If you have injured your toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Zina Cappiello, DPM of Dr. Zina B. Cappiello DPM, LLC. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Clifton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Achilles tendon injuries in children often result from overuse or sudden increases in physical activity, particularly in sports that involve running and jumping. The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, and repetitive strain can lead to inflammation, tendonitis, or even partial tears. Common symptoms include pain and stiffness at the back of the ankle, especially in the morning or after periods of rest, as well as difficulty while walking or running. Growth spurts in children can make them more vulnerable to these injuries as muscles and tendons tighten during rapid growth. If your child experiences persistent Achilles pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who will evaluate the injury, recommend treatments such as rest and specific stretches, in addition to providing guidance on how to safely return to physical activity without risking further damage.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Zina Cappiello, DPM of Dr. Zina B. Cappiello DPM, LLC. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Clifton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.