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The act of falling is unnatural and has the potential to cause many types of serious injuries. Falling may be a result of tripping hazards, which may be prevented, including wet floors, or frayed carpets. Additionally, taking certain medications may cause mild confusion, and specific medical conditions may play a significant role, which may increase the chances of falling. These may include heart disease, thyroid dysfunction, or changes in blood pressure, which may affect balance. Research has shown there are several ways to protect yourself against the dangers of falling, including engaging in a daily exercise program, that may aid in keeping the muscles strong, in addition to having your eyesight and hearing routinely checked. Many people find it helpful to use canes or walkers while performing daily activities and find it advantageous to wear shoes that fully support their feet. If you would like additional information regarding ways to prevent falling, please consult with a podiatrist for proper guidance.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Ira Silverman from New Jersey. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Many people enjoy the practice of yoga to achieve more than adequate stretches in their feet. When the proper stretches are performed, they may aid in keeping the feet strong. If a fall should occur, having strong feet may help in preventing painful ankle sprains or fractures. The feet endure the weight of the body for most of the day, and it’s important to understand that proper stretching may keep the feet flexible and supple. An effective stretch that may open the ankles, toes and plantar fascia is to kneel while sitting on your heels and keeping the toes tucked under. There are several other efficient poses, which may include threading your fingers between your toes and holding this position for a few minutes. This may help to loosen that arch of the foot. Additionally, performing the downward dog yoga pose will benefit the Achilles tendon, toes, and foot muscles. Balancing the body on the toes is effective in building strength and flexibility, even though it may feel uncomfortable at first. If you would like additional information about the benefits of stretching the feet, please consult with a podiatrist.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. Ira Silverman  from New Jersey. Our doctor 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 Willingboro, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Research has indicated that high blood sugar levels may be a common reason for poor circulation to occur in diabetic patients. Diabetes may cause blood vessels to gradually become damaged, and this may lead to decreased circulation. There are several symptoms that are associated with this condition, including a loss of sensation, which may begin with a feeling of pins and needles in the lower extremities; an awareness of hot or cold temperatures in the feet; or a decreased pain level, which may make it difficult to notice any sores or wounds. There are certain measures that may be taken to possibly prevent or help this ailment, including performing mild exercises and stretching techniques, wearing supportive shoes and socks, and keeping your cholesterol and blood pressure at normal levels. If you believe you have poor circulation, it is advised to speak with a podiatrist who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Ira Silverman of New Jersey. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms:

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

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

There are several people who spend the majority of their working day standing or walking. There may be several consequences that can occur when this happens, including the feet becoming generally sore, in addition to swelling and discomfort. Research has shown if gentle stretching exercises are frequently performed, the feet and overall health of the body may become positively affected. This may include the simple technique of rolling a tennis ball underneath your foot, which may aid in lengthening the foot muscles. Additionally, it may be beneficial to elevate your feet while taking breaks at work, and this may be helpful in promoting good circulation. Many people enjoy soaking their feet after a long work day in hot water with Epsom salts, which may aid in diminishing muscle tension. Foot massages may also be beneficial in providing the desired comfort the feet may need after working. It is suggested to consult with a podiatrist to learn about additional methods, which may help your feet to feel better after working.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Dr. Ira Silverman from New Jersey. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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