- Blogs
- October 16, 2023
- Category: Foot Fractures
- Tags: Ankle fracture, ankle fractures, exercise, feet, foot and ankle health, foot care, foot fractures, foot health, Fracture, physical therapy, podiatrist, stress fractures, Surgery, toe fractures, West Hartford Podiatry Associates
Your feet and ankles handle a lot of pressure and stress daily, making them more susceptible to fractures than other body parts.
Stress fractures usually develop slowly and may show intermittent symptoms, that are hard to diagnose. Some signs to look for are, swelling, redness, and warmth. Your foot doctor can often detect a possible stress fracture during a foot exam and may order X-rays or an MRI to confirm the diagnosis. Because of the severity of fractures, it’s important to receive care and treatment ASAP.
Treatment For Stress Fractures Includes…
Immobilize the foot – The only way to effectively heal a stress fracture is to allow the break to heal completely. Your foot doctor may prescribe an immobilizing cast or walking boot, and the initial healing period can take anywhere from four to twelve weeks or more, depending upon the severity of the injury.
Physical therapy – Carefully selected strength and flexibility exercises will be necessary to gradually improve the affected area without causing reinjury.
Slow reintroduction of activities – Slowly introduce sporting and exercise activities. Use low-impact swimming and cycling until you and your foot doctor determine that more stressful activities can be tolerated.
Surgery – In more severe cases a stress fracture may develop into a complete fracture that may require surgery. A recovery period and proper physical therapy lasting six months or longer may be required.
Good news! West Hartford Podiatry offers same-day emergency care services! We are ready and eager to help treat various foot and ankle conditions, diseases, and injuries, including Achilles tendon ruptures, ankle fractures, and foot fractures. If you need immediate podiatry care, give us a call!
At West Hartford Podiatry Associates, Marc Lederman, DPM, and Kurt Rode, DPM, treat a variety of foot and ankle conditions such as ankle sprains, fractures, running injuries, sports injuries, pediatric foot care, bunions, hammertoes, heel pain, and neuromas. We provide the best podiatric solutions to patients of all ages in Hartford County. Contact us for your foot and ankle needs. Our office is at 2531 Albany Ave, West Hartford, CT 06117.
- Blogs
- October 3, 2023
- Category: Pediatric Foot Issues
- Tags: Achilles tendon, Achilles tendonitis, ankle fractures, Ankle Health, ankle sprains, Common Injuries, exercise, feet, foot care, foot fractures, foot health, heel pain, injuries, podiatrist, toe fractures, West Hartford Podiatry Associates
Children’s bones, ligaments, and tendons undergo rapid growth during growth spurts and can be more susceptible to injury and pain during these times. It is good practice to pay attention to how your developing child walks, runs, and moves to notice problems with their feet. We encourage all your parents to have a podiatrist assess any concerns about pediatric foot care. Have your kids see a foot doctor regularly throughout childhood to catch and correct problems as they arise and to prevent unnecessary complications. Here at West Hartford Podiatry Associates, we pride ourselves in offering the best Pediatric Foot care for your child.
Common foot and ankle problems experienced by children usually include one or more of the following:
Sprained and strained ankles: This is one of the most common injuries in children and adults. Ankle sprains in children heal more quickly, but you should always have them treated promptly and properly by your foot doctor to avoid future complications or missed diagnoses, like fractures.
Achilles tendon problems / Heel Pain: The insertion point where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel is often the site of tendonitis/apophysitis (Sever’s Disease) in children. Heel pain in children often responds well to rest and cold therapy, but if heel pain persists all your foot doctor.
Toe and foot fractures: Acute breaks and stress fractures are more common in kids since their bones are still developing and haven’t reached full strength.
Children often outgrow foot and ankle issues, but to ensure things progress normally, see your podiatrist for the proper diagnosis, advice, and treatment!
At West Hartford Podiatry Associates, Marc Lederman, DPM, and Kurt Rode, DPM, treat a variety of foot and ankle conditions such as ankle sprains, fractures, running injuries, sports injuries, pediatric foot care, bunions, hammertoes, heel pain, and neuromas. We provide the best podiatric solutions to patients of all ages in Hartford County. Contact us for your foot and ankle needs. Our office is at 2531 Albany Ave, West Hartford, CT 06117.
- Blogs
- February 21, 2023
- Category: Bunion
- Tags: arthritis, Bunion Doctor, bunionette, Bunions, feet, Footwear, orthotics, Pain, podiatrist, toe joint, toe pain, toes, West Hartford Podiatry Associates
Those who have a bunion know that dealing with the everyday pain and discomfort that comes along with it can be a real drag. Things like walking, wearing shoes, or exercising grow more difficult, interfering with your daily life. The good news is you don’t have to suffer forever! There are plenty of ways you can treat your bunion, both at home and with the help of a trusted podiatrist. 
What is a Bunion?
Do you notice a bony bump on your big toe joint? Chances are it’s a bunion! When some of the bones in the front part of your foot shift and move around, usually due to foot trauma or improper footwear, it forces the tip of your big toe to get pulled toward your other toes. This makes the base of your big toe joint stick out, which is when a bunion occurs.
Is your bump along the outside of your pinky toe joint? That’s what’s known as a tailor’s bunion, or a bunionette. You may get one due to genetics, arthritis, or tight-fitting shoes.
How do you know if you have a bunion or bunionette? Let’s take a look at some of the top symptoms…
- A bony bump along the big toe or pinky toe joint
- Pain, redness, and swelling around the big toe or pinky toe.
- Calluses
- Corns
- Pain, most commonly when walking
- Difficulty moving your toe.
- Finding your shoes now fit uncomfortably.
How We Can Help
If you suspect you have a bunion, the best course of action you can take is to call your podiatrist. They’re equipped to help treat you properly and as quickly as possible. After a diagnosis, there are many treatment options available that don’t include surgery.
One of the best options available is orthotics. These shoe inserts are completely custom-made and help to relieve your pain and treat your condition at the same time. Bunion pads may help, as well.
Finding comfortable shoes that don’t aggravate your bunion and provide enough support and cushioning is a great idea. This will help prevent your bunion from getting worse. Cortisone shots may be recommended.
Using at-home treatments alongside your podiatrist’s recommendations can help you get rid of your bunion even faster. For most of your pain and discomfort, you can take an over-the-counter medication, like Aleve or Advil. This will help with any swelling and inflammation.
Rest your feet often and avoid any strenuous exercise for the time being. Physical therapy may be a great option for you. Alternatively, you can stretch your feet at home to help with any stiffness you have.
If you have a bunion, don’t wait to call! Talk to your podiatrist today.
At West Hartford Podiatry Associates, Marc Lederman, DPM and Kurt Rode, DPM, treat a variety of foot and ankle conditions such as ankle sprains, fractures, running injuries, sports injuries, pediatric foot care, bunions, hammertoes, heel pain, and neuromas. We provide the best podiatric solutions to patients of all ages.
- Blogs
- December 20, 2022
- Category: Wart, Wart Treatment
- Tags: feet, Foot Wart, HPV, plantar warts, Swift Therapy Treatment, Wart, Wart Treatment, West Hartford Podiatry Associates
Did you find plantar warts on the soles of your feet? They’re very common! Warts might seem like a small and harmless lump on your foot, but if left untreated, they may begin to create pain and discomfort when walking or standing. That’s why it’s important to call your podiatrist at the first sign of a wart. Today we’re sharing everything you need to know about warts, along with the perfect solution for them. 
What Is a Wart?
The virus HPV is the cause of plantar warts. When it enters through tiny cuts or breaks in the bottom of your feet, a small, rough growth appears. You can usually find them on the balls and heels of your feet, which bear the most pressure and weight. On darker skin, they may show up lighter than the rest of your skin tone. Here are some other common characteristics:
- Callus over the wart
- Small black dots in the middle of the wart
- Wart clusters
- Pain or tenderness when standing or walking is common
If you have any signs of bleeding, changes in shape or color, persistent warts, severe pain, diabetes, or a weakened immune system, don’t delay treatment. Call your foot doctor right away.
The Swift Therapy Treatment
West Hartford Podiatry offers the latest and most advanced technology for treating warts – Swift therapy. By using directed low-powered microwave energy, we can safely and quickly treat your warts. Most treatments for warts damage the wart tissue. And even after treatment, there’s a high percentage of them reoccurring.
Instead, Swift simply triggers the immune system and encourages it to resolve the wart on its own. After treatment, your body will recognize the HPV virus and build up an immunity to it, rather than ignoring it. There’s a less than 1% chance of warts reappearing after using Swift because of this.
Here’s why Swift is the warts solution you can rely on:
- It’s a consistent and precise treatment
- There’s a new applicator tip used for every session, meaning it’s clean and safe
- Swift is FDA approved and has plenty of research showing its success
- You’ll experience little to no pain
- There are no wounds, anesthetics, aftercare, or medications with Swift
- Each treatment lasts 5-10 minutes
Interested in treating your plantar warts with us? Call our office at 860-236-2564 and ask about Swift therapy today.
At West Hartford Podiatry Associates, Marc Lederman, DPM, and Kurt Rode, DPM, treat a variety of foot and ankle conditions such as ankle sprains, fractures, running injuries, sports injuries, pediatric foot care, bunions, hammertoes, heel pain, and neuromas. We provide the best podiatric solutions to patients of all ages.
- Blogs
- January 20, 2022
- Category: Foot Health, winter foot care
- Tags: dry skin, feet, foot doctor, injuries, podiatrist, shoes, socks, winter
Winter is here, and we have seen some freezing temperatures — literally. As we bundle up and wonder if another round of snow is coming, we can’t put our foot hygiene routine to the side. During the winter, there are a few tips that can make sure your feet will be summer ready. From moisturizing regularly to using caution with heat, we’re sharing 10 tips to carry you through the winter season. Bundle up and take notes.
Throughout the season, the doctors at West Hartford Podiatry Associates have noticed common foot conditions that affect patients. Sometimes, the conditions remain untreated and may worsen over time.
Here are your 10 winter tips:
- Moisturize daily: Wash and dry your feet, but don’t forget to add moisture. Winter weather can bring on dry skin. Ask your doctor if a cream or a lotion is best for your skin.
- Warm with wisdom: Never place your feet near direct heat. While trying to stay warm, dress in layers.
- Keep your feet moving: Don’t forget to exercise! Circulation is important during winter, too.
- Wear clean, dry socks: Who wants stinky feet in the winter? Always wear clean, dry socks and avoid pairs with holes.
- Let your shoes dry: Sweaty shoes? Give them time to dry.
- Don’t dismiss dry, cracked heels: Watch dry skin and address it quickly. Contact your podiatrist.
- Don’t take a break on your podiatry appointments: Don’t reschedule or push appointments to the spring or summer. Stay on top of maintenance.
- Wear the right shoes for the weather: Winter weather can cause injuries. From snow to rain, wear shoes to give you the best traction.
- Watch out for changes: We keep our feet covered often during the winter, but don’t take a break on daily foot inspections.
- Support matters every season: From winter boots to rain boots, shop with comfort and support in mind.
Do you have any winter tips? Share these tips with a friend. We hope these recommendations keep your feet healthy and warm and ready for the warmer seasons ahead. We’re here to help you navigate the winter season.
At West Hartford Podiatry Associates, Harvey Lederman, DPM, Marc Lederman, DPM, and Kurt Rode, DPM treat a variety of foot and ankle conditions such as ankle sprains, fractures, running injuries, sports injuries, pediatric foot care, bunions, hammertoes, heel pain, and neuromas. We provide the best podiatric solutions to patients of all ages in Hartford County. Contact us for your foot and ankle needs. Our office is at 2531 Albany Ave, West Hartford, CT 06117.
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