If you need a more accessible version of this website, click this button on the right.Switch to Accessible Site

1648 US Highway 130
North Brunswick, NJ 08902

June 2024

Tuesday, 25 June 2024 00:00

Managing Edema During Pregnancy

Pregnancy often comes with side effects like swollen feet, or edema. This common issue is the result of your body retaining more fluid and the growing uterus putting pressure on your veins. To manage swollen feet and ankles, start by reducing sodium intake and increasing potassium with foods like bananas, potatoes, and spinach. Drinking plenty of water may seem counterintuitive, but staying hydrated helps your body release excess fluids. Elevating your feet, especially at the end of the day, can also help to reduce swelling. Gentle exercises, like walking and swimming, help boost circulation, while wearing loose, comfortable clothing avoids restricting blood flow. Consider wearing waist-high compression stockings if you spend a lot of time on your feet. A relaxing foot and leg massage can work wonders for reducing fluid buildup. Additionally, staying cool and avoiding prolonged standing can significantly reduce swelling. If edema persists or becomes severe, it's suggested that you seek medical help from a podiatrist who can evaluate the problem, and suggest further treatment as needed.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Robert Fink from Brunswick Foot & Ankle Group. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

  • Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
  • Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
  • Wear shoes with good arch support
  • Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
  • Elevate feet if you experience swelling
  • Massage your feet
  • Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Read more about Pregnancy and Foot Health
Tuesday, 18 June 2024 00:00

Types of Bunion Surgery

Bunion surgery, or a bunionectomy, addresses the painful deformity at the base of the big toe. One common procedure is the realignment of ligaments, which involves adjusting the soft tissues surrounding the joint to correct the toe's position. Another type of bunion surgery is the removal of bone from the end of the first metatarsal bone. This technique reduces the bony bump and realigns the bone to alleviate discomfort. Fusion, or arthrodesis, is a more extensive option where the bones of the big toe joint are fused together. This method provides stability and is often used for severe bunions or arthritis. Each surgical approach aims to relieve pain, improve foot function, and prevent future issues. If you have a bunion that is causing you pain or discomfort, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine if surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Robert Fink of Brunswick Foot & Ankle Group. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

  • Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
  • Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
  • Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

  • Bunionectomy for painful bunions
  • Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
  • Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Read more about Foot and Ankle Surgery
Tuesday, 11 June 2024 00:00

Managing Your Child's Toe Walking

Idiopathic toe walking, as it's called, occurs when a child continues to favor their toes for walking or running. This behavior, if left unchecked, can lead to tight calf muscles and decreased ankle movement. However, there are methods to address toe walking effectively. For children under six, treatment may involve calf stretches, Achilles tendon stretches, and sit-to-stand exercises. Older children may benefit from calf stretches, marching in place, and walking uphill. Other exercises include walking on uneven surfaces, heel walking, and squats. These aim to stretch and strengthen the calf muscles, while promoting a heel-to-toe walking pattern. It is important for parents to identify toe walking early to prevent potential complications, such as muscle tightness and weakness. If your child exhibits persistent toe walking beyond three years of age, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can assess the extent of your child's condition, and provide recommendations tailored to their specific needs. 

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Robert Fink of Brunswick Foot & Ankle Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

Read more about What to Do to Keep Your Child’s Feet Healthy

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

Fashion trends often dictate footwear choices, but some styles can take a toll on foot health, particularly for women. High heels, revered for their elegance and sophistication, are notorious culprits in causing a myriad of foot problems. The elevated heel places excessive pressure on the forefoot, leading to issues like bunions, hammertoes, and neuromas. Moreover, prolonged wear of high heels can shorten the Achilles tendon, contributing to calf tightness and discomfort. The narrow toe box squeezes toes together, increasing the risk of ingrown toenails and corns. Additionally, high heels alter the body's natural alignment, leading to lower back pain and postural imbalances. Despite their allure, high heels can wreak havoc on foot anatomy and function. Opting for footwear with lower heels and adequate arch support can help reduce these risks while still maintaining style. Wearing high heels may cause foot pain, and there are a variety of foot conditions that can develop. If this applies to you, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can treat foot ailments from high heel use.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Robert Fink from Brunswick Foot & Ankle Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

  • Ankle Joints
  • Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
  • Balls of the Feet
  • Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
  • Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

  • Corns
  • Calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Morton’s Neuroma
  • Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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

Read more about Effect of High Heels on the Feet
Connect With Us