June 2025

A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe. It occurs when the big toe pushes against the next toe, causing the joint to stick out and become misaligned. Common causes include genetics, foot structure, arthritis, and wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes. Symptoms of a bunion include pain, swelling, redness, and restricted movement of the big toe. The area may feel sore or irritated, especially when wearing shoes. Over time, the bump can become more pronounced and painful. A podiatrist can diagnose a bunion through a physical exam and may use X-rays to assess the severity and alignment of the toe joint. Treatment options range from conservative measures like padding, orthotics, and anti-inflammatory medication to surgical correction in more advanced cases. If you are dealing with a painful bunion, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact the podiatrists of Dr. Siegerman & Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Broomall and West Chester, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition involving thickened nerve tissue between the toes, often caused by pressure or irritation. Non surgical care focuses on reducing stress to the area and relieving nerve irritation. Switching to wider shoes with soft soles can reduce compression on the forefoot. Custom orthotics may help by redistributing pressure and supporting foot structure. Padding between the toes can also ease discomfort by keeping them in a more natural position. Anti-inflammatory medications may reduce swelling and improve comfort. In some cases, corticosteroid injections are used to calm nerve inflammation. Activity modification, including avoiding high heels or high-impact exercise, may also prevent symptoms from worsening. If nerve pain between the toes continues to interfere with daily life, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact the podiatrists of Dr. Siegerman & Associates. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Broomall and West Chester, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Stretching the toes and feet is an important practice that promotes flexibility, strength, and circulation. Exercises such as toe curls, toe stretches, and toe extensions help maintain proper alignment and reduce muscle tension. When the muscles in the feet become tight, they can alter walking patterns and posture, potentially causing discomfort in the ankles, knees, hips, and lower back. Regular stretching relieves stress placed on the plantar fascia and other supporting structures, which may help prevent injuries and chronic conditions. A podiatrist can assess foot mechanics, recommend personalized stretching routines, and identify underlying problems that contribute to tightness or pain. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional foot stretches.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with the podiatrists from Dr. Siegerman & Associates. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Broomall and West Chester, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

As the years go by, it can become more difficult to keep up with routines that once felt simple. Bending, reaching, or even seeing the bottoms of the feet clearly can pose challenges. Dry skin, thickened nails, and calluses may go unnoticed or untreated, especially when vision or balance is not what it used to be. Some people may not feel pain as easily due to reduced sensation, which can allow small issues to grow into larger problems. Managing these concerns on your own is not always realistic, and it is common for older people to need a bit of help maintaining foot comfort and safety. Regular check-ins with a foot specialist can make a big difference. If taking care of your feet feels harder than it once did, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for proper guidance and treatment.

If you need your feet checked, contact the podiatrists of Dr. Siegerman & Associates. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Broomall and West Chester, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.