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Littlestown, PA

 (717) 359-5300

August 2019


Thursday, 29 August 2019 00:00

Before you start dancing...

 

Published in Blog

Monday, 26 August 2019 00:00

Is Hammertoe a Deformity?

Patients who have a medical condition known as hammertoe are familiar with the deformity of the second toe overlapping the third or big toe. It is considered to be a muscle imbalance, and it can be caused from a variety of factors. These can include genetic traits, having a history of toe injuries, or wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. The toe muscles can gradually become weaker, and the toe may become difficult to straighten out. Some patients find relief in performing specific exercises that are designed to strengthen the toes. These can include picking up items off the floor with the toes, and practicing overall foot stretches. For severe cases of hammertoe, surgery may be a viable option to permanently straighten the toes. If you are afflicted with this condition, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can advise you on the proper treatment options that are correct for you.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Todd Goldberg from Complete Family Foot Care Center. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

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 Littlestown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Hammertoe
Published in Blog

Monday, 19 August 2019 00:00

What Causes Bunions?

First and foremost, a bunion is a deformity of the big toe. Typically, it’s a bony protrusion that forms on the side of the big toe. Less commonly, a bunion may form next to the small toe, also known as a “bunionette.” There are many causes for bunions. Tight shoes, especially shoes with a narrow toe box, (ex: cowboy boots and high heels) are the culprits of bunions in most patients. Genetics often play a significant role as well. Experts believe that certain foot types make a person more prone to developing bunions, and these foot types tend to run in families. One study found that 83 percent of people who have bunions have a family history of bunions. It is also said that people who have rheumatoid arthritis and neuromuscular conditions are more prone to bunions. If you feel you have a bunion or you are experiencing soreness, redness, stiffness, and/or swelling around the big toe joint, it is best to consult with your local podiatrist.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Dr. Todd Goldberg of Complete Family Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

  • Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
  • Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

  • Redness and inflammation
  • Pain and tenderness
  • Callus or corns on the bump
  • Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

Read more about Bunions
Published in Blog

Monday, 12 August 2019 00:00

What Is Poor Circulation?

Inadequate blood flow in the body is referred to as poor circulation. The symptoms that are associated with this condition often include a tingling or numbing sensation in the feet and hands, the toenails may become brittle and dry, and wounds on the feet may heal slower than usual. If there are some existing medical conditions, it may increase the risk of developing poor circulation. These can include diabetes, elevated blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Research has indicated it may be beneficial to incorporate a gentle exercise program into your daily routine, as this can help to control specific medical conditions. If you are suffering from this ailment, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can help you with proper treatment options. 

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Todd Goldberg of Complete Family Foot Care Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

  • Numbness
  • Tingling
  • Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
  • Pain
  • Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

Read more about Causes Symptoms and Treatment for Poor Circulation in the Feet
Published in Blog

Monday, 05 August 2019 00:00

Why Do Blisters Develop?

A blister is defined as a small area of fluid that covers skin that has been damaged. When it occurs on the feet, it is typically a result of excessive friction that may come from wearing shoes that fit incorrectly. The fluid protects the skin as the healing process takes place, and will generally drain naturally when the skin has healed. Additional reasons why blisters may develop can come from frostbite, an allergic reaction to an insect bite, or medical conditions that may include eczema. If discomfort is felt from the socks and shoes worn, it is beneficial to cover the blister with a protective bandage. If you have developed a blister on your foot, and it has become infected, it is advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Todd Goldberg of Complete Family Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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

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