Preventing falls in the workplace is essential in ensuring the safety and well-being of employees. Falls can occur in any work environment, from construction sites to office buildings, and can result in serious injuries or even fatalities. Implementing proactive measures to mitigate fall risks is vital. This includes maintaining clean and clutter-free walkways, promptly addressing spills or slippery surfaces, and ensuring proper lighting in all areas of the workplace. Employers should also provide appropriate training on fall prevention techniques and the proper use of safety equipment such as harnesses, guardrails, and non-slip footwear. Regular inspections of equipment and work areas can help identify and address potential hazards before accidents occur. Encouraging open communication between management and employees regarding safety concerns fosters a culture of awareness and accountability. Falling can impact the feet, and may compromise completing daily activities. If you have injured one or both feet during your workday, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat any foot condition you may have endured.

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 Howard Abramsohn, DPM from Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. 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 Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Your feet, often overlooked, hold valuable clues about your overall health. They serve as a mirror reflecting various underlying conditions that might otherwise go unnoticed. Paying attention to subtle signs can provide insight into your well-being. For instance, cold feet could indicate poor circulation, while dry, cracked skin might suggest dehydration or a nutrient deficiency. Swelling may signal issues with your heart, kidneys, or lymphatic system. Additionally, changes in toenails, such as discoloration or thickening, may hint at fungal infections or more serious ailments like diabetes or psoriasis. Moreover, persistent foot pain might not just be due to overuse but could signify conditions like plantar fasciitis or arthritis. Therefore, by observing and heeding the messages your feet convey, you can take proactive steps toward maintaining optimal health and addressing potential concerns before they escalate. After all, your feet are more than just the foundation of your body, they are valuable indicators of your overall well-being. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who may find underlying health issues and offer you specific treatment plans.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM from Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

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

Caring for a diabetic foot wound demands meticulous attention and specialized techniques to promote healing and prevent complications. Begin by gently cleansing the wound with mild soap and lukewarm water, ensuring thorough yet gentle removal of any debris or bacteria. Pat the area dry with a clean towel, taking care not to rub or irritate the skin. Apply a prescribed antibiotic ointment or cream to safeguard against infection, and cover the wound with a sterile dressing or bandage to maintain cleanliness and moisture balance. Monitor the wound closely for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or drainage, and promptly seek medical attention from a podiatrist if such symptoms arise. Refrain from applying adhesive bandages directly to the wound, as they may cause further trauma or hinder healing. It is important to prioritize weight-bearing off the affected foot to alleviate pressure and promote optimal recovery. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can properly treat diabetic foot wounds.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Howard Abramsohn, DPM from Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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

Sesamoiditis, a condition affecting the sesamoid bones beneath the big toe joint, manifests through various symptoms that can significantly impact mobility and comfort. Common indicators of sesamoiditis include pain and tenderness in the ball of the foot, particularly beneath the big toe. Individuals may experience discomfort when bearing weight on the affected foot, especially during activities such as walking, running, or squatting. Swelling and inflammation around the sesamoid bones are also prevalent symptoms of this condition, contributing to heightened discomfort and limited mobility. In some cases, individuals may notice difficulty bending or straightening the big toe due to the pain and stiffness associated with sesamoiditis. The symptoms of sesamoiditis can vary in intensity, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain that interferes with daily activities. If you have difficulty walking, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat sesamoiditis.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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