According to Amy Rushlow of Yahoo health, your constantly freeze feet may be due to something more serious than you thought. Blood in the body is warm and is a key factor in maintaining body temperature, have cold feet regularly may mean poor blood circulation in the feet. When the feet see reduced circulation, they will not be as warm. Additionally poor circulation in the feet has been linked to a few health issues such as smoking and diabetes.
Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our podiatrist will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Poor Circulation in the Feet
Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.
Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. It usually restricts the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.
Causes
Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development.
It can also cause:
-muscle pain -numbness in legs
-cramps -skin discoloration
-weakness -slower nail & hair growth
-stiffness -erectile dysfunction
Those who have diabetes and or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, or who are over 50.
If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD, and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.
As always see a doctor as they will help try and fit a regime that suits you. A doctor will also prescribe you medication which will help for PAD.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
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Surgeon Decompresses Nerves to Reduce Tarsal Tunnel Pain
Written by PCC Admin
Dr. Tim Tollestrup of Henderson, NV is said to have “tunnel vision.” This is because he spends so much of his time correcting the pain of tarsal tunnel syndrome with a peripheral nerve decompression surgery. Tollestrup spends much of his time trying to fix the ailments of his patience so they can live a medication and pain free life and is part of a small group of surgeons capable of eliminating pain from the syndrome. The surgery allows the surgeon to correct a compressed nerve by stripping it of the surrounding tissue that is causing the pinching or compression. The surgery is very specific and takes a lot of education and understanding of how the body works. “You have to know the nerve anatomy very well and know where the compression points are,” Tollestrup stated.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Jenkintown, PA. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.
Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
-Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
-Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
-At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.
The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
-Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
-The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
-If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.
A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest technologies and diagnostic treatments. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Children are in a constant state of growth and development and therefore often require frequent shopping trips to purchase items that will fit their growing bodies. Shoes often fall into this list of necessities, and with the purchase of new shoes parents should also keep in mind the necessity of proper foot health. Children in particular are prone to developing flat feet, a condition characterized by an abnormal collapse of the arch while standing. Parents can watch for early signs of the condition, which include: a flat foot arch at age 5 or older, heels that tend to angle outward when seen from the back, clumsiness during activity or early leg fatigue, or foot, knee or ankle pain during or after activity or the middle of the night.
Certain sports and physical activities may become difficult for children with flat feet. If you suspect that your child has the condition, speak to Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will attend to all of your podiatric needs.
What are Flat Feet?
Flat feet are a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. Standing about 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arch never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – if you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms:
Pain around the heel or arch area
Trouble standing on the tip toe.
Swelling around the inside of the ankle.
Flat look to one or both feet.
Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment:
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
For more information about Flat Feet, follow the link below.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Michal Rozsival of Chicago Blackhawks Sustains Broken Ankle
Written by PCC Admin
Michal Rozsival of the Chicago Blackhawks suffered a broken ankle during Game 4 of the series against Minnesota Wild. The injury occurred when Rozsival skated backwards, fell and landed unnaturally. Although the Blackhawks still won the game and will move on into the Western Conference Final, Rozsival had to be carried off the ice by teammates Brad Richards and Duncan Keith and will not return until next season. Dr. Michael Terry confirmed the player will need surgery to treat the injury..
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Jenkintown, PA. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
- Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
- Swelling around the area
- Bruising of the area
- Area appears to be deformed
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
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Dr. Margaret Abbott Discusses Athlete’s Foot Remedies and Prevention
Written by PCC Admin
Dr. Margaret Abbott of Nottingham states that athlete’s foot is a mild fungal infection that causes an itchy rash to develop or for red, scaly, and dry skin to appear. The bottom of the foot is also capable of becoming inflamed or blistery. Abbott states that feet are warm, dark, and humid, and are the perfect conditions for fungi to multiply, which can become troublesome if infected. Athlete’s foot is easily treated with antifungal medication. The ailment can also be prevented by washing feet regularly with soap and water. It is important to thoroughly dry the feet after they have been wet as well. Wear breathable, cotton socks, and change your socks and shoes regularly to ensure proper dryness of the feet.
Athlete’s foot can be an uncomfortable condition to deal with. If you are suffering from athlete’s foot contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is a condition that results in itching, burning, dry, and flaking feet. Treatment is often difficult, because of its contagious and reoccurring nature. Also known as tinea pedis, it is found to survive in moist humid areas.
Common places found:
-shower floors -public changing areas-locker rooms
-Gyms -bathrooms -public swimming pools
-socks and shoes -dormitory style houses
Treatment & Prevention
Because of its reoccurring nature, the best way to treat Athlete’s foot is with prevention. Take necessary precautions such as:
-Wearing flips-flops or sandals in locker rooms and public showers
-Using powders to keep your feet dry
-Keeping your feet exposed to light and cool air
Athlete’s foot can be treated with special creams and sprays.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Australians Seeking Botox Injects to Reduce Sweaty Feet
Written by PCC Admin
Australians have recently been found to reduce hyperhidrosis of the feet with the help of Botox injections. According to neurologist and clinical professor Dr. Peter Silbert of University of Western Australia, when Botox is injected near a sweat gland, it blocks communication between the gland and the nerves. This is said to prevent excessive sweating in the area, but the area must be injected every six months which comes with side effects such as weakness.
If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.
Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.
In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.
A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Study Finds No Running Shoe Completely Prevents Injury
Written by PCC Admin
A study conducted at the University of Newcastle in Australia found no proof that running shoes prevent injury and that basing a running shoe purchase on prescription rather than comfort is more likely to lead to injury than not. The findings also prove that a more expensive shoe will not prevent injury any more than a cheaper shoe does. Andrew O’Brien of Mayo News believes these findings imply that those choosing the right shoe for their foot should be guided by comfort and price overall.
A proper shoe is important for every day foot care. For more information about everyday foot care, consult with Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctorwill provide you with the foot- and ankle information you seek.
Every Day 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. After all, 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 example.
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.
Also, 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 our office in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Quick and Easy Treatments to Smooth Cracked Heels and Other Foot Ailments
Written by PCC Admin
According to Men’s Journal cracked heels, corns, and calluses, a common problem for men and women, can be a quick fix at home or the salon. The foot condition, although easily treatable, occurs because of ill-fitting shoes or through frequent motions over the foot such as running causing friction between bones, skin, and shoes. If your calluses or cracked heels are more extreme than usual, visit a salon for a pedicure since they can easily remedy the situation. At home, you can soak your feet in warm water for ten minutes and use a pumice stone to scrub and soften the area.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can treat your foot and ankle needs.
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels are unappealing, and make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Not only may they look bad, but they can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.
How do you get them?
Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.
Promote Healing
Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief, or who suffer from chronic dry feet.
Wear Socks – wearing socks with medicated creams, helps lock in moisture so it can stay on longer.
Moisturizers – applying it both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.
Pumice Stones – these remove dead skin, and then you can massage cream onto your foot. This way the cream will be absorbed. The skin needs to be exfoliated; therefore the outer layer dead skin needs removal.
Change in Diet
Eating healthy, with a well-balanced diet, will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to what kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements will also help with skin tissue.
Most importantly seek a health professional for foot care if something is wrong or doesn’t seem to be working. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Dominque Candelaria suffers from foot pain every morning when she gets out of bed. She claims her pains are consistent to walking on hot coals. Since she has been suffering from this pain for the last two years, she recommends that you pay attention to your feet regularly to find foot problems early. Candelaria’s foot pain was diagnosed with plantar fasciitis, the inflammation of tissue on the bottom of the foot that causes heel pain.
The condition is treated with shockwave therapy by breaking up the scar tissue. Other treatments such as physical therapy are also helpful in treating the condition.
Shockwave therapy is a treatment commonly used to treat various injuries and conditions, particularly plantar fasciitis in the feet. To learn more, consult with podiatrist Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will provide you with quality foot and ankle information and treatment.
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.
Who Benefits from Shockwave?
Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.
Fast and Easy
The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, attacking the source of the problem so treatment lasts for a long time.
Treatment & Recovery Time
Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia. This treatment is a better option to surgery, since it is proven safe.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
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Barefoot running, one of the most controversial running trends of today, comes with its hosts of benefits and risks. While barefoot running or running in minimalist shoes can strengthen the muscles of the feet and calves, it can also lead to more injuries for those who have structural issues with their feet or who have had injuries in the past.
Novices interested in trying barefoot running should ease into the practice by starting with short walks either barefoot or in minimalist shoes to help strengthen the core muscles of the feet. Initial runs should be short before slowly being increased over an amount of days. The practice is best when incorporated into a regular fitness routine as opposed to being the primary form of exercise.
If you have any concerns about barefoot running, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania for more information. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Barefoot Running
Barefoot running is a fairly popular trend in the running world. More than just simply ‘running without shoes,” barefoot running affects the way your feet hit the ground and your overall posture. Barefoot runners land on the front part of their feet as opposed to those who wear shoes, who usually strike their heel as they hit the ground.
Barefoot running contains many advantages, including:
- A lower risk for ankle and foot injuries
- Improvement in balance and body posture
- Strengthens muscles in the lower legs, ankles and feet that are not normally worked when wearing shoes
There are also some disadvantages to barefoot running, which include:
- Lack of shoes increases the risk of incurring blisters, scrapes, bruises and cuts
- Risk of Achilles tendonitis as a result of landing on the front of your feet constantly
- Needing time and transition to adjust as the switch cannot be automatic
Start on even, flat surfaces and consider investing in minimalist running shoes. Minimalist running shoes provide the ‘feel’ of barefoot running while affording the same protection you get from wearing shoes. Barefoot running can be safe and enjoyable with the proper planning and transition.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
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According to a new study published in a the journal Arthritis and Rheumatology, recovery workers that aided in clearing Ground Zero in New York City are more susceptible to arthritis and other autoimmune disorders. The most common form of arthritis found was rheumatoid arthritis, where workers experience period flare ups and stiff joints.
Psoriatic arthritis is also common, specifically where ligaments more muscles attach to bone in the heel of the foot. Although the study found many suffering from arthritic pain, there is free health monitoring programs in place for those suffering from Ground Zero related problems.
Arthritis can be a different condition to live with. If you are suffering from arthritic foot pain, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our podiatrist can treat your foot and ankle needs.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves inflammation of different joints in your body, such as in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. On top of this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.
In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.
Alleviating Arthritic Pain
- Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
- Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
- Massages can help to temporarily alleviate pain.
It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.
If you have any questions about arthritic foot care, please feel free to contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Michigan Residents Prepare to Support RA with Fundraising Walk
Written by PCC AdminAccording to the Arthritis Foundation, 2.3 million adults and 10,300 children in Michigan alone suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, a disease that causes a slow and painful deterioration of the body’s joints, bones, ligaments, and cartilage. Although the disease affects millions of people all over the country, there is still no known cure.
However, there are some treatments such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to temporarily reduce inflammation and pain. Each year Michigan hosts the Detroit Walk to Cure Arthritis to raise awareness for the vast population suffering for the disease without a cure. Each participant is asked to raise at least $100 to help raise awareness, research funding, and funds to lobby for bills such as the Patients’ Access to Treatments Act.
Rheumatoid Arthritis is a painful and limiting condition. If you are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Severe pain and immobility are caused by an inflammation of the lining of your joints, and in worse cases the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone can occur.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, many cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area. Pain will often initially present in the toes before the condition worsens and spreads throughout the entire foot.
Symptoms
- Swelling and pain in the feet
- Stiffness in the feet
- Pain on the ball or sole of the feet
- Joint shift and deformation
Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that your podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor may ask you about your medical history and lifestyle to help determine possible causes of your RA.
Treatment
Unfortunately, there is no cure for RA, so treatment options are designed to specifically target the symptoms of it, most notably the pain it causes. Two types of anti-inflammatory drugs – non-steroidal or NSAIDs and corticosteroids – may be prescribed by your doctor. In some severe cases where the joints are too badly damaged, surgery may be an option. As always, speak with your podiatrist to help determine the appropriate treatment options available to you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Katy Perry Receives Cupping Therapy for her Foot Pain
Written by PCC Admin
For years celebrities have been seen with cupping marks all over their backs and necks to reduce shoulder pain, but now Katy Perry is the latest celeb to use cupping in a new way: for her feet. Celebrities are always seen walking the red carpet with drastically high heels that can cause pain in many parts of the foot; the singer is getting treated for pain on the balls of the feet. The therapy treatment is said to detoxify the body and improve circulation. The star even posted a photo to social media stating, “Getting my foot cupped cause: fashion week.”
Foot therapy is a good idea for those with chronic pain and to recovery from foot injuries. To get consultation for foot therapy, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Most common injuries
People who are constantly on their feet are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is important to take part in physical therapy in order to get back on the right track quickly.
What to do when injured
Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. This is important for those wanting to get back into the game quickly. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.
During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. These are some steps physical therapy often involves:
- Basic stretching & twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.
- Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.
- Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.
With the advancements in technology and greater knowledge of how muscles and joints work, physical therapists can turn things around dramatically.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
New Hammertoe Procedure Can Correct Pain and Aesthetic of the Condition
Written by PCC AdminHaving shoes that correspond with today’s fashion is almost a necessary part of life today; unfortunately when people suffer from hammertoes it feels as though any shoe is too painful to wear. Recently, a new procedure has been set in place where implants would be used to permanently straighten the joints in the foot. The implant, called TENFUSE, is said to be made out of cortical bone and will not have to be removed since the implant will eventually become a part of the bone. If the implant works as well as expected, this could be great news for the 10 to 20% of Americans suffering from the condition.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. If you are suffering from hammertoes, contact Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Hammertoe
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.
Symptoms
- Pain in the affected toes
- Development of corns or calluses due to friction
- Inflammation
- Redness
- Contracture of the toes
Causes
- Genetics – people who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible
- Arthritis – because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur
- Trauma – direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe
- Ill-fitting shoes – undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe
Treatment
- Orthotics – custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it
- Medications – oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used
- Surgery – in more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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