Items filtered by date: February 2024

Stress fractures are small cracks in bones that often stem from repetitive motions. Stress fractures are common injuries among athletes, runners, or individuals with weakened bones due to poor nutrition or medical conditions. Symptoms of stress fractures include enduring pain during physical activity, tenderness, and mild swelling that primarily occurs in the lower leg and foot. Diagnosis of stress fractures can be elusive as an X-ray may be unable to detect the hairline cracks in the bones. In those cases, a podiatrist can employ an MRI or a bone scan for confirmation. Treatment typically entails rest, immobilization using casts or braces, and, in rare instances, surgery. Early detection and intervention can help to avert further complications and ensure a smoother recovery process. If you believe you may have developed stress fractures in your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for thorough testing and treatment options. 

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, 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.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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.

Gout pain, a form of inflammatory arthritis, manifests as intense discomfort characterized by sudden, severe joint pain, typically affecting the big toe. Described as excruciating, stabbing, or throbbing, gout pain often strikes unexpectedly and can be debilitating, making even the slightest movement agonizing. The affected joint becomes swollen, tender, and warm to the touch, with the pain reaching its peak within a few hours. Gout attacks frequently occur at night, disrupting sleep and causing considerable distress. Beyond the big toe, gout can also affect joints such as the ankles, knees, wrists, and fingers, causing similar symptoms. The pain associated with gout can persist for days or weeks, gradually subsiding with proper treatment and management. Factors like diet, lifestyle choices, genetics, and underlying health conditions can influence the frequency and severity of gout attacks. Recognizing the distinct sensation of gout pain is essential for timely diagnosis and effective management. If you have had one or more gout attacks, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage this condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Zina Cappiello, DPM from Dr. Zina B. Cappiello DPM, LLC. Our podiatrist will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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 and ankle needs.

Proper foot stretching is essential for ballet dancers, who often subject their feet to intense physical demands and experience foot pain. Ballet dancers can prevent injuries and reduce any existing foot pain with regular stretching routines. One good foot stretch for ballet dancers is the Achilles tendon stretch, where the dancer gently leans forward against a wall, keeping one foot back with the heel on the ground. This stretch keeps the Achilles tendon flexible, and helps dancers achieve pointed foot positions required in ballet. Another helpful stretch is a toe stretch, where the dancer sits back on their heels with their toes rounded underneath. This encourages flexibility in the toes and the plantar fascia. Additionally, calf stretches against a wall helps prevent tightness and promotes fuller range of motion during ballet movements. Incorporating these stretches into a regular routine can help ballet dancers improve their foot flexibility, prevent injuries, and maintain agility. If you’re a ballet dancer with concerns about foot pain, or you want guidance about proper foot stretching, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can ensure you’re performing stretches correctly. 

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Zina Cappiello, DPM from Dr. Zina B. Cappiello DPM, LLC. Our podiatrist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

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.

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, affects approximately 10 million adults in the U.S., with about five percent of those over 50. The condition is slightly more prevalent in men. Peripheral artery disease is caused by clogged arteries that block the flow of blood to the lower legs and feet. Risk factors include high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, and hypertension. Others are family history, chronic renal failure, obesity, and physical inactivity. Common symptoms can include intermittent pain with exercise and severe pain in legs, especially at night. Additional signs of PAD are numbness, weakness, and muscle atrophy in legs, coldness and color changes in feet, and hair loss on the arms and legs. Thickening toenails and poor wound healing, which may lead to ulcers and gangrene, are also telltale signs of PAD. Prompt recognition of symptoms and risk factors is important to prevent complications that can include tissue damage. If you are experiencing symptoms of PAD in the lower leg and feet, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a thorough exam. 

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Zina Cappiello, DPM from Dr. Zina B. Cappiello DPM, LLC. Our podiatrist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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.