Items filtered by date: October 2022

Falls can happen to anyone, but they are far more common among older adults. It is believed that one in four seniors over the age of 65 falls in a year, and the risk of falling increases with age. Among the many causes of falls are dizziness, poor eyesight, slower reflexes, neuropathy, strokes, and other underlying conditions. Certain medications may cause dizziness or drowsiness, which can be factors in losing balance or spatial awareness, especially at night. On a more physical plane, loose rugs and wires, cluttered and darkened hallways, and inadequate lighting may contribute to falls in seniors.  A more sedentary lifestyle, which can result in weaker muscle strength, along with balance and gait problems, can also contribute to falls.  To find out more about preventing falls, please consult a podiatrist.

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 Todd A. Bell, DPM from Connecticut. 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 Bloomfield, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The design of the many different bones, muscles, and ligaments in the feet is masterful and enables the feet to move to perform their different functions. There are 26 bones in each foot, which includes the phalanges in the toes, the metatarsals in the middle of the foot, and the calcaneus bone at the heel. There are also approximately 30 joints in the feet and 100 different ligaments. The feet contain a group of intrinsic muscles and ligaments. These are primarily located across the bottoms, or soles, of the feet. This group is contrasted with the extrinsic muscles and ligaments that are found in the lower leg and essentially curve around the ankle. This then attaches to the foot. If you want to learn more about the biomechanics of the foot and how this critical body part functions, contact a podiatrist today.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Todd A. Bell, DPM from Connecticut. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

The three most common kinds of arthritis are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid, and psoriatic, despite the fact that there are more than 100 various types. When arthritis affects the feet, there are methods that can be implemented which may help to diminish the pain that is associated with it. The muscles in the feet can become stronger when elastic resistance bands are used, and this may help to support the joints. Additionally, practicing aerobic exercises several times per week can add to the endurance and improve overall fitness. Research has indicated the joints may become flexible when consistent yoga stretches and pilates movements are practiced. Balance may be increased by partaking in tai chi, which may possibly help to strengthen the joints in the feet. Arthritis in the feet can be uncomfortable, and it is suggested that these types of exercises are performed that may help to obtain mild relief. For more information on arthritic pain, it is suggested you make an appointment with a podiatrist.  

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Todd A. Bell, DPM from Connecticut. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

An ingrown toenail can be quite painful. It happens when the nail grows into the surrounding skin instead of over it. In severe cases, it may bleed and become infected, and it may be necessary to perform surgery for permanent relief. An ingrown toenail often affects the big toe, and in most cases, requires prompt medical treatment. Patients can experience symptoms that often include swelling, tenderness, and it may produce pus or fluid if it becomes infected. There are various reasons why people may notice an ingrown toenail developing. These can consist of wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, genetic reasons that can cause curved toenails, or if a toe injury has occurred. Relief may come from soaking the foot in warm water, followed by using a cotton swab to gently pull the skin away from the nail. This is considered to be a temporary fix until a podiatrist can be contacted. If you have developed this uncomfortable ailment, please make an appointment with this type of doctor who can effectively treat ingrown toenails.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Todd A. Bell, DPM of Connecticut. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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