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A new over-the-counter treatment for heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis has received clearance from the United States FDA. The ActiPatch, created by BioElectronics Corporation, is being marketed as an adjunctive or alternative therapy to pain killers. BioElectronics Corporation is a maker of wearable pain therapy devices, with other devices including Smart Insole Heel Pain Therapy. ActiPatch is “a drug-free, wearable nonprescription medical device that provides 720-hours (90, 8-hour treatments) of on/off therapy.” The ActiPatch is just one possible future method for easing heel pain. Consult with your podiatrist to determine what heel pain treatments are most suitable for you and your concerns.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Jordan Rachlin of Monroe Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

  • Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
  • Wearing non-supportive shoes
  • Weight change           
  • Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

Read more about Heel Pain
Tuesday, 14 February 2017 00:00

Nuggets Guard Harris Returns From Ankle Injury

In a game on January 16, Denver Nuggets guard Gary Harris was forced to leave due to a right ankle sprain.  X-rays were taken and there was no indication of a break.  This is not the first foot problem Harris has sustained in his short career in the league.  Recently, he missed 16 games for an injured right foot.  Now in his third year, Harris has been averaging 13 points per game. Harris bounced back admirably from his injury though returning to face the Timberwolves and scoring a team-high 22 points in a hard fought 111-108 loss.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Dr. Jordan Rachlin of Monroe Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Plantar Fasciosis
  • Achilles Tendinitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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

Read more about Sports Related Foot And Ankle Injuries
Tuesday, 07 February 2017 00:00

Recipes for Treating Athlete's Foot

For those who may have embarrassing foot problems such as Athlete’s foot, good news: there are natural treatments that can be used to combat the stinky fungal infection. Tea tree oil can be added to a foot soak to help kill fungus. Himalayan Crystal salt, mixed with apple cider vinegar, can be used in warm water to treat Athlete’s foot. Lemon juice is also great, as it has a natural acidic property that helps to exfoliate dead skin cells from your feet. Borax can also be used as a disinfectant spray to help kill bacteria and foot odor in the insides of your shoes.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Jordan Rachlin from Monroe Foot Care.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

  • Hydrate your feet by using lotion
  • Exfoliate
  • Buff off nails
  • Use of anti-fungal products
  • Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

Read more about Athlete's Foot 101
Tuesday, 31 January 2017 00:00

Diets Healthy for Gout

If you are currently living with gout, knowing how to keep your uric acid levels down is absolutely vital in maintaining good overall health.  Eating a low-purine diet is something that needs to be done to stay healthy.  High fiber and low fat foods are ideal.  For instance, drink 1% milk instead of whole milk.  Also, eat low-purine fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and kiwi.  These fruits produce less uric acid than others.  Limiting carbohydrate intake is  important as well.  Instead of drinking fruit juices, drink vegetable juice. Low-purine vegetables include: cucumber, kale, cabbage, carrots, and beets.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Jordan Rachlin from Monroe Foot Care. Our doctor 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 Monroe, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Everything You Need to Know About Gout
Wednesday, 25 January 2017 00:00

Preventing Poor Blood Circulation

If your feet feel cold, especially during these winter months, it is because it is your body’s natural response for conserving heat when it is too cold. Your body “tries to maintain its internal temperature by constricting small blood vessels under the surface of the skin. This allows more blood to move deeper in the body, so your core stays warm.” However, this causes your body’s extremities, like the feet, to receive poor blood circulation. When taking care of your cold feet, try to wear warm, breathable socks that help wick away moisture. Opt for wool in place of cotton. Other methods include warming your feet up in warm water, drinking hot liquids, moving around to get your blood circulation going, and investing in shoe inserts to help insulate the insides of your shoes.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Jordan Rachlin of Monroe Foot Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

  • Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
  • Numbness  or cramping in the legs 
  • Skin discoloration
  • Slower nail & hair growth
  • Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD, and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

Read more about Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Poor Blood Circulation in the Feet
Monday, 16 January 2017 18:30

Maintain Jogging During the Winter

runners20Drops in temperatures and rough weather conditions can make maintaining a jogging regimen during the wintertime difficult. To stay motivated during the winter, consider the following recommendations: set realistic goals, look after you muscles and properly stretch your legs and feet, wear the right footwear, eat well, and protect the extremities by wearing up to three layers.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Jordan Rachlin of Monroe Foot Care. 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 to 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 often we 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 not to have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure its good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rise, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, also flexing the toes and involving the shins may help too. It is best to speak with your doctor regarding how to do these fitness steps and how often is right for you. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different and it varies from individual to individual to determine what should be done for you to maintain strength in your feet.

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 our office located in Monroe, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about exercising your feet.

Thursday, 12 January 2017 18:18

Winter Shoes May Affect Bunions

As the winter months are here, you may find yourself switching to winter shoes such as boots. However, it’s important to be mindful that boots are often narrow and can irritate bunions. Bunions are known as bony protrusions on the side of the feet, developing over time. Narrow shoes such as winter boots can contribute to the progression of this condition, so it’s vital to accommodate your feet. Opt for wide shoes and look to treatment options such as orthotics, padding, and if the condition is severe, anti-inflammatory medications or injections.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Jordan Rachlin of Monroe Foot Care. 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 cause bunions to form

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 Monroe, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Bunions
Monday, 02 January 2017 19:05

About Plantar Fasciitis

toenail fungus7Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition that most commonly affects those between the ages of 30 to 55, especially those who are athletes. The plantar fascia, a ligament that runs beneath the sole of the foot, supports the arch of the foot and acts as a shock absorber. Repeated stress and impact to the heel, however, can cause the fascia to tear and cause inflammation. This results in the foot condition, plantar fasciitis. While there are various specific causes behind plantar fasciitis, excessive pressure is often the case. To determine the cause of your plantar fasciitis and the most appropriate treatment, consult with your podiatrist.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Jordan Rachlin of Monroe Foot Care. 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 our office located in Monroe, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Plantar Fasciitis

Monday, 26 December 2016 03:14

Vegetables Help With Arthritis Symptoms

Arthritis5Sweet potatoes and broccoli may be considered as potential options for alleviating inflammation in the body, such as arthritis. Vegetables like these are high in alkaline and antioxidants, which help fight against arthritis symptoms. Sweet potatoes are also a good source of beta-carotene and vitamin C. Arthritis is described as a condition in which the body’s joints become inflamed and are prone to symptoms of pain. Inflammation occurs when the nerve endings in the joints react to damaged cells, leading to pain and limited mobility. Other arthritis symptoms include redness, swelling, increased temperature and stiffness.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Jordan Rachlin of Monroe Foot Care. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Arthritic Foot Care 

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves inflammation of different joints in your body, such as in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. On top of this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

·         Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility

·         Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications

·         Massages can help to temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

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

Read more about arthritic foot care

Monday, 19 December 2016 22:51

Importance of Walking Correctly

feet7Although walking regularly offers many benefits for our overall health such as managing health conditions such as heart disease, it’s important to take caution as walking is not necessarily injury-proof. As we walk, we put pressure on our legs, ankles and feet. Improper walking motions can impact the amount of pressure exerted.  Avoid looking down as you walk, as this can lead to slouching. Keep your back straight and your head upright to avoid any gait problems. Proper shoes are also essential for ensuring that our leg and foot motions are correct, as they play a large role in the biomechanics of our feet. Remember to always change your shoes every 350 to 500 miles.

Every day foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked contact Dr. Jordan Rachlin of Monroe Foot Care. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Every Day Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. After all, without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks. It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before, for example.

For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops.

Also, wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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

Read more about Everyday Foot Care

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1200 Rt 208 Suite 5
Monroe, NY 10950
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Phone: (845) 782-4455
Fax: (800) 968-8601

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