Items filtered by date: May 2020

The second and third toes may be impacted by the medical condition that is known as hammertoe. The toe bends at the joint in an upward position, and often resembles a hammer. It is considered to be a deformity, and in severe cases, surgery may be necessary to permanently straighten the toes.There are two stages of hammertoe. When this condition is first noticed, the joints can be flexible, and relief may be found when the correct shoes are worn. Additionally, there are specific stretches that can be performed which may help to strengthen the toes. When the condition becomes more severe, it is referred to as rigid hammertoe, and the joints are unable to move. A common reason why this condition may develop can consist of wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. Additionally, genetic factors may lead to developing hammertoe. Please consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose this ailment, and suggest treatment options that are correct for you.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Princeton Foot & Ankle 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

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

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 Princeton and West Windsor, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The medical condition that is known as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can cause the patient to experience pain and discomfort, in addition to having deformed toes. It may be difficult to stand for extended periods of time, and the feet can ache for the majority of the day. The joints often become weak, which can be a result of tissue, bone, and cartilage breaking down. A common symptom is swelling, and patients may find it difficult to complete daily activities. The feet may change shape, and larger shoes may have to be worn that can accommodate the changing foot. Patients who are afflicted with RA can find relief when the feet are elevated, and it may feel better to soak the feet in warm water. If you have symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in the feet, it is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Princeton Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

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. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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

Diabetes is a common ailment many people are afflicted with. It is important to take proper care of the feet, and this especially applies to diabetic patients. Several complications may develop on the feet if there are bruises or wounds that are left unattended. A cut may develop into a foot ulcer, which may lead to possible amputation, if left untreated. It may be difficult to feel temperature changes or existing cuts, and this may be a result of neuropathy. It is beneficial to address symptoms that can affect the feet, which may be helpful in preventing painful foot conditions. These signs can include swollen feet, sores and cuts that heal slowly, and there may be a burning sensation. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and monitor this condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Princeton Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

It is important for people of all age groups to maintain proper foot care. Research has indicated It is in the best interest of the child to begin early, and this can be accomplished by walking barefoot while indoors. This can often help the overall foot to become stronger as the toes grasp the floor. When it is time to walk outdoors, the first pair of shoes can be purchased. After your child’s feet are properly measured, the correct size shoe can be tried on. It is beneficial for these shoes to consist of a flexible material which allows their feet to stay cool. If you would like additional information about how to properly fit shoes for your child, please consult with a podiatrist who can offer helpful techniques.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Princeton Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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