Family Foot & Ankle Specialists Blog

NJ Podiatrist | Flower Program | NJ Foot Doctor

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

Family Foot & Ankle Specialists in Piscataway and Hillsborough, NJ show their patients some appreciation each Valentine’s Day. The office passes out red flowers to each of their patients who come in for an appointment. Men and women alike get a flower just for being a good patient, a good friend and a good family member to the office.

In a world that seems to have lost their business ethics, we like to show our patient how much they mean to us. We consider our patients to be one of our family. Some of the doctors in the practice, especially Dr. Wishnie who has been practicing for 21 years, have patients they have been seeing for over 10 years…that’s more than some friends last in our lives!

Whether you have a Valentine or not, Family Foot & Ankle Specialists will be here to give you a flower on Valentine’s Day if you promise to come in and get your feet taken care…fair trade?

Giants Superbowl | Osi Umenyiora | Defensive Lineman

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

Osi Umenyiora, defensive lineman for the Giants suffered from a high ankle sprain similar to Patriots star tight end Rob Gronkowski. Gronkowski is till going to attempt to play in Superbowl XLVI. Umenyiora says he was not able to play when he had his ankle injury. He continues to state that their positions are different so he cannot say whether he would continue to play if he was in Gronkowski's shoes.

Giants rookie linebacker, Jacquian Williams, is out of the boot he has been sporting on his right foot after spraining it in the NFC Championship. He says he's taking it "day by day", but he wouldn't miss Sperbowl XLVI for the world! It seems as though Superbowl XLVI is gearing up to be an exciting game.Let's hope the Giants can stay injury free for the big day!

NJ Podiatrist | Hillsborough Podiatrist | Piscataway Podiatrist

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

On Sunday, January 22, 2012 Family Foot & Ankle Specialists attended a healthfair in Somerville, NJ. The healthfair was sponsored by Temple Beth-El and The United Reformed Church of Somerville.

The fair featured services throughout central Jersey including other physicians, hospitals, and community organizations. The fair offered free flu shots, eye screenings, glucose testings and free foot exams provided by us, Family Foot & Ankle Specialists.

"It's important to give back to your community and support the people within it," states Dr. Peter Wishnie, owner of Family Foot & Ankle Specialists. The office attends healthfairs monthly throughout their communities. Family Foot & Ankle Specialists has offices in both Hillsborough and Piscataway, NJ.

Laser Therapy for Foot Pain

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Laser therapy is used to treat many foot conditions such as heel pain, achilles tendonitis, and diabetic neuropathy. Laser therapy is a painless treatment option that promotes healing in the damaged area. It requires no needles or down time and is safe and effective. The laser therapy is done right in the office and only takes about 15 minutes.
Laser therapy is a very convenient treatment option, but it is also very effective. The laser increases blood flow to the damaged area which promotes healing. It also reduces swelling which reduces pain. Many patients have chosen laser therapy as a way to treat their foot problems.

Serena Williams Ankle Sprain | NJ Podiatrist | Piscataway | Hillsborough

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Ankle sprains are common injuries for athletes. Ankle sprains, fractures and breaks are all different and will be treated differently. A doctor will be able to determine which problem you have based on X-rays.

Ankle sprains result in torn or over stretched ligaments around the ankle. Ankle sprains are caused from a twist at the ankle where the ankle wouldn't normally go in that direction. Treatment usually includes RICE- rest, ice, compression and elevation. In worst case situations a cast may be required to hold the ankle in the correct position until the sprain heals.
If not treated professionally more serious problems can develop later on. Chronic ankle pain may result of an ankle sprain that was not treated properly.

Local Podiatrist Runs for Children Who Can't

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

December 4, 2011- Peter Wishnie, DPM, a podiatrist in Hillsborough and Piscataway, NJ traveled to Texas on Sunday to run in the metroPCS Dallas White Rock Marathon benefiting an exceptional children’s orthopedic hospital. Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children treats children with all sorts of pediatric orthopedic disorders as well as neurological disorders. The metroPCS Dallas White Rock Marathon has pledged to donate $1 million dollars to the hospital through the marathons, donations and corporate sponsors.

Texas Scottish Rite Hospital treats children from birth up to 18 years of age in conditions such as scoliosis, hip dysplasia, limb lengthening to dyslexia. The hospital also treats children with foot problems such as in toeing, flat feet and clubfoot. The hospital’s dedication to treating these birth conditions led them to open the Center for Excellence in Clubfoot Research. “The race was especially important to me and I ran it in Dallas to support the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital because my friend, and fellow podiatrist, Dr. Marybeth Crane’s daughter was a patient there.”

Clubfoot is one of the most common birth conditions effecting about one in every one thousand newborns. Although it is not life threatening, it can have a serious impact on a child’s life. Clubfoot is a condition that turns the foot to the side, causing the limb to appear shorter. The causes for clubfoot have not been fully determined; however the chances of a baby being born with clubfoot doubles if one or more of the parents had the condition.

Clubfoot can be very painful and will make walking extremely difficult. Treatment will include casting to move the foot into the correct position. Stretching, physical therapy and braces may also be needed to guide the foot and keep it straight. In worst case situations, surgery may be needed to correct the foot.

At Family Foot & Ankle Specialists, we treat children with all kinds of foot and ankle disorders. Clubfoot, flat feet, sever’s disease and in-toeing are common children’s foot problems. “Most of children’s foot problems can be treated conservatively without the need for surgical intervention. Corrective shoes, braces, and casts can be used to painlessly treat most conditions, “Dr. Wishnie explains. If children’s foot problems are left untreated more serious issues can arise including walking problems, arthritis, and bone problems.

Sad Truth's of Shoe Shopping

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

As soon as I read this article I knew we had to post it...it's the same story of a woman's shoe shopping experience. We all go to the store with good intentions, we're going to buy fabulous shoes, that fit perfectly and don't pinch or crush any toes...sadly, this rarely happens.

The way this really plays out is we go to the store, and suddenly SMACK a gorgeous, sky high stilleto hits you in the face and the music starts playing in your head, this must be true love. From that point on, all sense of reality goes out the window. You don't care what sizes they have or if if fits to your foot shape... you have already decided you're buying it and now you're waiting in line dreaming of all the outfit matches.

Now, as soon as you put those shoes on to go out, you know you have made a terrible decision. You're out with friends and you can barely stand...walk to the restaurant?? You can't even make it to the car! Good thing you packed flats for the night.

This is crazy! How much time, energy and money is put into shoes that you will never wear again, when you can have a comfortable, fitted and suportive shoe. Now, I understand the word "comfortable shoes" leaves an image of buly, white granny shoes in your mind, but times have changed! There are actually really healthy shoes made with style available at affordable costs. In addition, a Certified Pedorthist can teach you how to wear some of your most ridiculous shoes, while still maintaining a healthy balance.

Call (732) 968-3833 to make an appointment with our very own Dawn Lewis, Certified Pedorthist and learn how you can wear some sassy shoes without changing them 20 mintues into your night! Or click here to learn what to look for in a healthy shoe.

Food Drive | NJ Podiatrist | Hillsborough | Piscataway

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

We're Giving Back to Our Community!

We are asking others in our community to help us make a difference in the lives of those who need it most this holiday season. We feel very thankful for all we have, and understand others in our community are not so fortunate. Sadly, as the economy takes a hit so do many families as parents lose jobs, are lad off, or just can't seem to get ahead.

In addition, there are children who don't have their families to rely on this season. Orphans throughout the state and country are at the mercy of donations. Therefore we are asking for your help to birghten up the lives of these children.

The causes we are working for this season as as follows:

1. Food Drive-
We are collecting non-perishable food that will be donated locally, to Elijah's Promise in New Brunswick, NJ. Elijah's Promise is an exceptional charity in our community. Each day the friendly soup kitchen feeds three meals and prepares bag lunches for those who need it. In addition, they have established a culinary school at low to no cost for those looking to improve their lives and find jobs.

2. Pajama Program
We are collecting new, flame retardant pajamas for orphan children. The pajama program is a great charity that helps children who don't have much and don't have a family to help. These children are given new, comfy and safe pajamas and books that are able to enjoy. It keeps them warm and they are able to learn from the books.

To donate either pajamas or food this season, you can stop into either of our office locations during normal business hours:

Piscataway- 250 old New Brunswick Road, Bldg 12, Piscataway, NJ 08854

Hillsborough- 349 Route 206, St J, Hillsborough, NJ 08844

Billy Idol Foot Fracture | NJ Podiatrist | Piscataway | Hillsborough

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Billy Idol suffered a motorcylce accident about a year ago that caused a hairline fracture to his foot. He recently had surgery on the foot. In the year after the accident, the injury in his foot began to calcify forcing the singer to under go surgery again.

Prescription Orthotics | NJ Podiatrist | Hillsborough NJ | Piscataway

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

We have all seen the commercials on TV for "Custom Fit Orthotics" made by Dr. Scholl's that you can find at your local pharmacy. They say they use "Revolutionary FootMapping Technology" that identifies the areas of your feet that you put the most pressure on and your arch type. Well, that sounds all well and good, but what about the reason behind that pressure, and the actual diagnoses behind your pain? Is there a podiatrist sitting at the pharmacy ready to do a biomechanical foot exam? What about and X-ray or an ultrasound to determine of you have a heel spur, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, morton's neuroma, etc??

We all like to save a few bucks but when it comes to our health is that really the place you want to cut corners? A Custom Orthotic prescribed to you by your podiatrist specifically designed to correct the mechanics of YOUR feet cannot be replaced by a pharmacy bought device. A custom orthotic is designed to treat the source of your problem.

* How does Dr. Scholls know if you have a limb length discrepancy?
* Does he know if you are a diabetic?
* Is there a Certified Pedorthist sitting next to the scanner at the pharmacy ready to measure your feet and recommend the proper shoes for your foot type?

Think again about what you are doing when you try to self treat your foot and ankle problems at a pharmacy kiosk. You could be causing a plethora of new foot and ankle problems by not being diagnosed AT ALL in addition to prolonging the pain you are already living with.

Painfree Bionic Foot

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Sadlly, people lose their feet for many reasons. Diabtetic complications, diabetic neuropathy, and accidents are common reasons people either lose their feet or need to have them amputated. It's hard to imagine life without a limb, yet many people do not realize the effects until it's too late. Podiatrists warn that diseases such as diabetes can often result in amputations. However, traumatic injuries can suddenly cause an emergency amputation as well.

A man in Boron has learned having a foot or lower limb amputated is really a life changing experience. Eric Pierce of Boron, California was involved in a construction accident four years ago causing his leg to be amputated below the knee. After years of suffering with an artificial foot, he recently received a state of the art bionic foot.

The loss of his limb caused Pierce to suffer from exhaustion from carrying around the fake foot, depression from dealing with the loss of a limb and dealing with the difficult task of trying to move around. Pierce is now happily enjoying his bionic foot with it's wide range of motion. The painless bionic foot allows Pierce to tackle the tasks of everyday life.

Many people do not realize that living a life after a foot amputation can be extremely difficult. Diabetics are at a huge risk for amputations which is why podiatrists suggest visiting a podiatrist at least every six months and more frequently if a problem occurs.

*SAVE YOUR FEET FROM SERIOUS PROBLEMS INCLUDING AMPUTATIONS BY CLICKING HERE

Smelly Feet Attract Mosquitos

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Recent studies show healthy, hygenic feet will help to keep pesky mosquitos away. Are you the one at the BBQ getting eaten alive? No matter how many bug zappers and bug repellent candles there are you still seem to be an all you can eat buffet? Well maybe it's time to take a closer look at your feet.

The researchers, led by Fredros Okumu at the Ifakara Health Institute in Tanzania have been luring mosquitos to traps by using natural and artificial foot odors. Researchers are trying to catch mosquitos to help lower the amounts of Malaria and other diseases.

Nearly 800,000 people died from Malaria last year. With this new research project, many are hoping the number of deaths and new contaminations will greatly be reduced.

Flat Shoes Does Not Necessarily Mean Better

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Many women understand the harm of wearing super high heels, tight shoes, and unsupportive flats. Although we wear them, we know and undertsand it's a risk and that at any moment you can step wrong and end up with a twisted ankle. While most women get the winter shoewear warnings, many do not have a clue about the damage summer shoes are causing your feet.

First, the problem starts with the word "open" what this means to a podiatrist is "danger". Open toe shoes will increase the likely hood of an injury to your feet. There is a reason people in factories, waitresses, and other industries are not able to wear sandals on the job. Of course many of these professions have a higher injury potential, anytime your feet-or any other area of your body is exposed there is a higher chance of injury.

Next, flip flops in themselves are pretty terrible for your feet. The have little to no support and invite injuries such as stubbed or cut toes. We have seen many patients due to flip flops. We've seen women who have tripped, twited their ankles, stubbed or cut their toes, dropped heavy or shapr objects on their feet and more.

Although they're cute and festive they can be very dangerous. Wear sandals with caution. If you are going to be manning the BBQ it is highly recommended to wear a shoe that covers the whole foot, also cutting the grass- you can easily and in the matter of second lose a toe or two. Be sure to use caution this summer when exposing those toes. If you injure yourself get immediate help.

$50,000 in Shoes Helps Arizona Homeless

Wed, 18 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

Sadly, many people don't give shoes the credit they deserve. In fact, 80% of people in the world are wearing the wrong size shoe. Shoes are the support to your foundation. Think about it, your shoes carry you through the day, they take a pretty good beating! In order to prevent pain and injury, you need to have proper fitting, well supportive shoes.

Foot Solutions, a shoe store throughout the country is proving what a difference a great fitting pair of shoes can make. With the support of a local church, they are providing free foot exams with free shoes and socks for the less fortunate people of Arizona.

"We think healthy footwear is really more of a necessity then a luxury and it is one that we want to offer as many people as we can," said Jeff Petruske, Board Certified Pedorthist and Foot Solutions Field Operations Coordinator. Footwear is huge; it can either create or eliminate pain. Unfortunately many people honestly believe that foot pain is a part of life, something they have to learn to live with....that's the furthest from the truth. Footwear is designed to help support your feet and keep them healthy and happy.

Here at Family Foot & Ankle Specialists, we offer the community a free foot exam anytime! We want to educate the public on proper footwear, preventative foot health, and foot safety issues. In addition, we have an on-site certified pedorthist here to help you understand your footwear, make better footwear choices and keeping your feet healthy. Call our office to make an appointment today! (732) 968-3833. Click here to get your FREE exam coupon!

Shoe Drive is Ending

Tue, 03 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

At Family Foot & Ankle Specialists we hold an annual Shoe Drive where we ask the community to donate any shoes in good or great condition. The office takes shoes of all kind to help benefit the local Salvation Army.

We Accept:
* Children's shoes
* Athletic shoes
* Men's shoes
* Women's shoes
* Dress shoes
* Casusal shoes

The Effects of Obesity on Foot Pain

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

Obesity is a double edge sword when it comes to foot pain. Obesity can lead to many serious problems such as diabetes, heart disease and foot pain. Plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, and ankle issues are some of the common complaints. Additionally, once people become obese their foot or ankle pain can become so great, they are not able exercise.
Foot pain increases with weight for many reasons. Feet are the foundation for the body; they carry a person's entire weight. The more weight it carries, the more stress it puts on the feet. There is more pressure put on the heel and arch which causes the arch to fall (fallen arches), and the side of the feet to widen and stretch out. Once the arch has fallen completely, many other issues can occur throughout the body including leg, knee, hip and back pain.
While there are accommodations that can be made to help support a person's arch and relieve excess pressure, a person would be encouraged to lose weight. Exercises that do not involve standing or putting pressure on the feet are recommended such as swimming or certain types of yoga. A person should change their diet to begin losing weight and taking pressure off their feet.
Although weight loss will contribute to foot pain relief, any person experiencing foot or ankle pain should speak to a podiatrist. A podiatrist could suggest orthotics, also known as foot supports to help distribute pressure, and may recommend proper shoes and shoe wear. A thorough examination would need to be done to determine a person's specific needs.

NJ Podiatrist Office has Affordable Payment Plans

Thu, 31 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

Family Foot & Ankle Specialists is now offering a new payment plan for their patients. Care Credit is regarded as a medical credit card that can be used at any medical office that accepts it. It is an interest free "loan" that is given to a person to pay for medical expenses. Often people will use Care Credit for medical procedures that are not covered by insurance, but can also be used it for co-pays, deductibles, products and just about everything else.

How it works is one of our fianancial advisors will work the patient to apply for a set amount of money. Just like a credit card, a person's amount and availability will depend on their credit score and other factors. Between the financial advisor and the patient, a time frame will be set for re-payment, usually six or twelve months interest free. Within seconds there is an answer and the money is available.

The Care Credit card is great to use for large medical expenses not covered by insurance or a person's individual insurance such as orthotics or laser therapy, but can just as easily be used for co-pays or deductibles. Even products such as shoes, gels, pads, or socks can be paid for using the Care Credit card. If you are interested in applying for the Care Credit card through our office ask to speak with one of our financial advisors at your next appointment.

Safe Barefoot Running with Running Shoes

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST

There’s been a lot of hype around barefoot running, some love it, and some hate it. However, from a podiatric stand point, you have to be sure to protect your feet and prevent injury. If you have decided to run barefoot, or as close to barefoot as possible, be sure to thoroughly explore your options. Thankfully there are many options to both get the effects of running barefoot while staying safe.

One of the biggest concerns podiatrists have about barefoot running is that people will be running on dangerous surfaces. For example, running through the streets of New York without running shoes can cause you to get stuck with glass, rocks, and other debris. In addition, running on a boardwalk can cause dangerous splinters that can lead to infections.

Fortunately, this latest running craze has caused many of the big name shoe companies to offer safe solutions. Nike, Merrell, Saucony and many others now have shoes that act and feel as though you’re running barefoot while offering protection from the surfaces you are running on. You can choose from many styles, colors and other variables.

Although many podiatrists have concerns for barefoot runners, health and safety is number one. Podiatrists have seen many serious injuries resulting from an uneducated barefoot runner. If you have decided to make this lifestyle change, do your research. Understand what you are about to do and how it can affect your body.

400 Pairs of Designer Shoes

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST

A retired Long Island businessman hired the "Sex in The City" set designer to build a replica of Carrie Bradshaw's fantasy walk-in closet for his label-loving wife. The closet is 400 square feet and holds up to 400 pairs of designer shoes!!!

The closet is also designed to hold dozens of handbags, racks of clothes organized by label, as well as drawers full of over sized sunglasses and bling. The closet cost $175,000 to build and was "worth every penny" says the housewife who chose to remain anonymous.

In the movie Carrie receives her dream closet as a gift from her fiance, Mr. Big. In this case life imitated art. Designers Lisa Frants and Lydia Marks say their next challenge is to build a matching closet for the client's husband.

Medicare Deductibles, Secondary Insurances and Who Covers What?

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Every year Medicare patients have a deductible that must be satisfied. The deductible amount changes every year. Many patients have secondary insurances to supplement the balance of what Medicare does not cover.

This is where the confusion starts for many. You may ask yourself, why if a patient has a secondary insurance, do I still get bills from what Medicare doesn’t cover? The truth is every insurance plan is different. Some cover deductibles, some cover the full Medicare 20% co-insurance, some do not cover either.

When selecting your Medicare supplement plan make sure to ask all the questions first. Find out how much, if any of the Medicare deductible will be covered. Also, check if all or part of the Medicare 20% co-insurance is covered. You may have to pay more for the plans that cover your deductible and co-insurance, but if being free from any additional bills is important to you, then that would be your best option. Paying more on a monthly basis for a better supplemental plan will allow you to budget your finances accordingly, rather than getting a surprise bill for more than you planned.

Each patient should take time to understand their insurance. Weighing your options based on your health needs and financial situation is an important step to taking charge of your healthcare.

Runners- Don't Let Foot Pain Hold You Back From Running

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

Shoes, Shoes, Shoes...you cannot run without proper shoes! It is really that simple. In order to be the best runner you can be, prevent injury and reduce crippling pain, you need to have proper shoes.

On that same note, many people will go out and buy the hottest, most expensive, flashiest new running shoe and wonder why they are still experiencing pain. Well, once you have the correct shoe, you know need the correct shoe size! No matter how incredible the shoe, if it doesn't give you proper support and comfort, you will still have pain or be susceptible to injury.

One of the most common injuries is plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of the tissue and tendons on the bottom of the foot. This condition can be very painful, but is treatable. Another common injury, shin splints, is also an inflammation of a muscle or tendon, but this effects the shins. In addition to proper shoes and shoe size, stretching is vital. You need to stretch and warm up.

To learn about proper shoe size, click here to learn from our Certified Pedorthist (an expert shoe fitter)!

Foot Pain Increases with New Years Resolutions NJ Podiatrists

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 08:00:00 EST

We all know what January means...new years resolutions! The number one new years resolution is of course- losing weight. Unfortunately, many people just dive head first into their resolution without any training. Although it's great to be so motivated, it also increases your risk for injury.

There are some key elements you need to take into account. For example, you need to wear proper shoes, you need to stretch, and you need to be doing the exercise correctly...and you need to STOP at the first indication of pain.

Just like the rest of your body, your feet, ankles, and calves need to be stretched, especially if you haven't exercised in a while. Also, you need good, supportive shoes designed for the activity you're doing. For example, if you are going to be running- you need running shoes! Walking, you need walking shoes and so on. Furthermore, you need to fully understand the exercises before you start flailing around!

Be sure to take precautionary measures before you fall victim to an injury. Be sure you are wearing the correct shoe and shoe size, you stretch, and you fully understand the exercises you are going to be doing.

Athletes Suffer and Keeping Playing Through Excrutiating Pain

Thu, 02 Dec 2010 08:00:00 EST

This article describes how some of the world's mopst famous athletes deal with debilitating pain...and keep playing. Many athletes from football, to soccer, to rugby are injured while playing and whether you know it or not, a lot of the times they will keep playing in order to try to win.

This article describes how three athletes, Canada's best Olympic athletes — speedskating gold medallist Christine Nesbitt, bobsleigh gold medallist Heather Moyse, and alpine skier Kelly VanderBeek have recently suffered major injuries.

On the Canadian rugby team, Moyse, ruptured ligaments in her ankle and foot and and bruised her talus bone while being tackled. Her cleat was stuck in the turf while the rest of her body went down. The athlete was done and now so is her season. "An injury like this can put an athlete out for a long time if it's not treated right," states Dr. Waters of Family Foot & Ankle Specialists. "Too often athletes try to return to the game too soon," she continues.

The other athletes suffered other major injuries, some playing their sport, others not at all. To read more on this article click here.

Pregnant Women Suffer Just To Look Good!

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

Many women do not realize, but pregnancy can influence your feet in positive or negative ways. Due to weaker bones, unsupportive shoes, genetics, women face serious complications. Even through all the pain, women want to look good, fit in with style, and wear only the most adorable shoes.

There are many ways to avoid excruciating pain without sacrificing style. For example, if you must wear high heels, always pack a back up pair of sneakers. Switch out the painful heels when you are walking most like during lunch, walking through the parking lot, or running errands after work. Also, wearing the appropriate shoes for the activity you're involved in, like grocery shopping- you do not need to grocery shop with 3 inch heels on!

In addition the added baby weight can put your feet uinder a lot of pressure, even causing them to swell. Do not try to cramp them into tiny shoes or throw on any old pair of flip flops. Your feet need extra support during this time, which is why it's so important to visit a podiatrist. Orthotics, or other inserts can help to stabilize the foot and reduce pressure.

In addition weight, genetics, and stretching also help to reduce pain. Prevention is key to eliminating pain even before it happens. Be sure to have your feet checked by a podiatrist, wear the proper shoes, alternate shoes, maintain a healthy weight and a few others are easy ways to prevent common foot pain. To read more, click here.

To order your free book on easy tips to get or maintain painfree feet, click here!

87 Percent of Women Suffer Due to Painful Footwear

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

It's no secret many women are willing to sacrifice their health in order to look good. For example, many women are willing to suffer through painful foot issues. According to the American Podiatric Medical Society, 87% of women are suffering due to improper footwear.

Bunions, hammertoes, corns and calluses is just the iceberg. Major foot problems that can occur include bone spurs, plantar fasciitis, achilles tendonitis, and ankle sprains. Women often feel compelled to wear high heels out on dates, to business events, sometimes even to work.
High heels are not creatures of evil, but they do have their place. Our Certified Pedorthist suggests wearing LOW high heels, maybe 2 inches, throughout the day while having a back up pair of sneakers or flats to change into and rotate throughout the day. If you're going out to lunch at work, change itno your flats, from the office to your car, wear your flats etc.
Also, wedge shoes provide more support that a straight high heel.

To read more about the problems caused by improper shoes click here. To learn what other podiatrists throughout the country are telling their patients about high heels and stilettos click here.

Do Men Really Judge Women's Feet?

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

When it comes to feet, should women feel self conscious with their little piggies around men? Well, after careful observation (my husband being my lab rat), men actually do care.

When summer starts every woman is so excited to get those sandals out and those relaxing pedicures. But what happens the rest of the winter months when are toes are in warm, fuzzy socks and cute boots, should we still care? OF COURSE, I tested my husband recently and made sure he was aware of my non pedicured toes and calluses, at first I just plopped my feet on the coffee table or asked for foot massages to see what his reaction would be.

Let me tell you ladies, after 3 weeks of experimenting with this man, BAMM he figured it out! One night as I was conducting my experiment, I asked " honey , can I have a foot massage?" he looked over at my feet, "I'm not touching those bad boys, they look like pigs feet and feel like sandpaper."

Even though it was just an experiment, I was horrified. So lets keep it safe and, and get our pedicures at the fabulous, clean Healthy Nails & Body Spa, here at Family Foot & Ankle Specialists.

Excercises can Help Reduce Pain from Planatar Fascitiis (Heel Pain)

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

http://www.prfire.co.uk/press-release/how-i-cured-my-heel-and-arch-pain-32093.html

This article describes how very painful plantar fasciitis can be and an easy method to reduce the pain. Exercising is crucial to stretching out the muscle that actuall hurts, the plantar fascia. In our office, we recommend that our patients visit our on-site physical therapy. To learn at home stretching exercises, watch the video below.

Understanding Your Insurance Benefits

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

Why doesn’t my insurance cover ________?

Many patients ask the question why my insurance doesn’t cover this. This can be anything from surgery, orthotics or x-rays. What is even more confusing is that you may know someone who has the same insurance as you and they had that particular benefit covered.

The benefits that are covered under a particular medical plan are most often determined by the employer who is offering the medical plan. Your employer carves out a plan that they feel suits the needs of both the company and the employee. There are many factors that determine the benefits and riders the employer chooses including but not limited to the line of work and the cost of the benefits.

Many employers will offer their employees more than one plan option, for instance HMO, PPO and Traditional plans. It is very important to carefully read over your entire plan options and choose the one that will best suite your needs

The 3 Essential Elements of Your Feet

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

At Family Foot & Ankle Specialists we know our patients want to get back on their feet and resume normal activity, but when your feet hurt everything hurts!! The answer is finding the right products that match your unique foot care needs and provide true customized comfort. The first step to customized comfort is to identify the 3 essential elements of your feet-your foot type, arch type and pressure points.

1st Essential :FOOT SIZE. Your foot size changes throughout your life and an improper fit can often lead to discomfort. Aetrex footwear comes in multiple widths and offers unique features that help provide a comfortable, customized fit.

2nd Essential:Arch type-Low, Medium, or High. Identifying your arch type is as important as your foot size. Aetrex shoes and orthotics can be integrated to provide optimal comfort for your specific arch type.

3rd Essential: Pressure Points. Customized comfort requires a pressure free environment in your shoes. With Aetrex orthotics and Mozaic Customization, specific pressure points can be quickly relieved to help ensure maximum comfort.

Schedule an appointment today with our Certified Pedorthist and receive a FREE digital scan of your feet and be on your way to customized comfort!

Gmen Threatened with Achilles Tendonitis

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 08:00:00 EST

The Giants are hopeful center, Shaun O' Hara will recover from his painful achilles tendinitis. O' Hara has been in a lot of pain, unable to walk, since he developed achilles tendonitis. The Giants were worried their center was going to be out for the season. However, O' Hara has been getting Cortisone shots to relieve the pain and he claims they are helping tremendously.
O'Hara said he originally wanted to work through the pain, however, he soon realized that was not possible and the pain was not going to just go away. He has been getting the Cortisone shots and it has helped to greatly reduce the pain.

Achilles tendinitis is often caused by

Hill running or stair climbing.

Overuse resulting from the natural lack of flexibility in the calf muscles.

Rapidly increasing mileage or speed.

Starting up too quickly after a layoff.

Trauma caused by sudden and/or hard contraction of the calf muscles when putting out extra effort such as in a final sprint.