
Drexel Hill (484) 521-0233
West Chester (610) 436-5883
Drexel Hill (484) 521-0233
West Chester (610) 436-5883
Hammertoe is a deformity that affects the toes, causing them to bend downward at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. It typically occurs in the second, third, or fourth toes and can be caused by a variety of factors. One of the primary causes is wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes that force the toes into unnatural positions. Other contributing factors include muscle imbalances, injury, and certain medical conditions like arthritis. There are two main types of hammertoe, flexible and rigid. In flexible hammertoe, the toe can still be moved, whereas in rigid hammertoe, the joint becomes fixed in a bent position. The symptoms of hammertoe include pain or discomfort when wearing shoes, visible bending of the toe, calluses or corns on the top of the toe, and difficulty walking. If you have developed a hammertoe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief options, helping you to manage this condition.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact the podiatrists of Dr. Siegerman & Associates. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.
Symptoms
Risk Factors
Treatment
If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Drexel Hill and West Chester, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments supporting this complex joint are stretched or torn. Ankle sprains are classified into three grades, based on severity. Grade 1 sprains involve mild stretching of the ligaments, causing slight pain and swelling. Grade 2 sprains are moderate, with partial tearing of the ligaments, leading to noticeable swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. Grade 3 sprains are severe, involving complete ligament tears, significant swelling, instability, and an inability to bear weight. Risk factors include improper footwear, uneven surfaces, and activities requiring sudden movements. A podiatrist can assess the extent of the sprain through a detailed exam and use imaging tests to rule out fractures. Treatment options include braces or casts to stabilize the ankle and allow proper healing, with a focus on preventing chronic issues like instability. In cases of a Grade 3 sprain, surgery may be required to restore joint function. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.
Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact the podiatrists from Dr. Siegerman & Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What Are the Symptoms?
Preventing a Sprain
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Drexel Hill and West Chester, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
The feet are often overlooked, but they can provide important insights into overall health. Many symptoms occur in the feet before they are noticed elsewhere in the body. For instance, changes in foot appearance or structure, such as swollen or red feet, may indicate underlying issues like heart disease or diabetes. Conditions like athlete’s foot, fungal infections, or bunions are common signs of foot problems, while persistent foot pain can suggest joint issues, such as arthritis or gout. In some cases, poor circulation in the feet can be an early sign of peripheral artery disease or diabetes. Numbness, tingling, or changes in skin color may indicate nerve damage or systemic health issues. By paying attention to these signals and seeking early treatment, individuals can prevent more serious health problems. It is suggested that you consult a podiatrist when unusual symptoms arise. This type of doctor can treat various foot conditions and provide valuable insight into one’s overall well-being.
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 the podiatrists from Dr. Siegerman & Associates. Our doctors 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 feel free to contact one of our offices located in Drexel Hill and West Chester, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Sustainable foot care focuses on practices that promote the long-term health of your feet while reducing environmental impact. It involves selecting footwear and products made from eco-friendly, durable materials that prioritize both comfort and sustainability. Opting for well-made shoes reduces waste by ensuring longevity while using biodegradable or recyclable insoles and foot care products minimizes environmental harm. Sustainable foot care also includes maintaining foot health to prevent avoidable complications. Regular foot hygiene, proper nail care, and attention to posture and gait all contribute to minimizing wear and tear on the feet. By caring for your feet responsibly and making conscious choices, you support not only your well-being but also the health of the planet. If you would like to learn more about this important topic and address any foot or ankle issues that you are experiencing, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact the podiatrists from Dr. Siegerman & Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Everyday Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.
It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Drexel Hill and West Chester, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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