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Hammertoes and Related Woes

As the weather gets chillier and our shoes get heavier, it’s worth mentioning a common and intractable problem that we at West Hartford Podiatry Associates see all too often: hammertoes.

Hammertoes develop from a progression of symptoms and joint abnormalities affecting your toes. Specifically, the term refers to toe joint misalignment and includes mallet and claw toes.

If a hammertoe is left alone too long, you may eventually lose the ability to move the injured toe. So it’s best to stay informed, and we’ve put together a short collection of helpful information to help you do just that.

Hammertoes comes in three varieties:

  1. Flexible: The toes that are afflicted can still move at the affected joint.
  2. Semi-rigid: The hammertoe is becoming less flexible.
  3. Stiff: A rigid hammertoe that is immobile.

This problem can often be traced to more than one cause, and multiple conditions worsen it. If hammertoes get out of hand, surgery is usually required.

Improper footwear

  • Toes forced into a cramped position by shoes with a high heel or a toe box that is too small are at risk for hammertoe complications.
  • The afflicted toes can eventually lose the ability to straighten themselves, even when supported by better footwear choices or custom orthotics.

Bunions

  • Hammertoes are more prevalent among individuals who have bunions. 
  • Pressure from the big tie is borne by the rest of the toes, causing them to become bent.

Injuries

  • A toe that has been stubbed, jammed, or broken may be more likely to develop into a hammertoe.
  • Abnormality in the toe muscles and instability resulting from imbalance may cause the toe to curl.

Don’t let a hammertoe slow you down. At West Hartford Podiatry Associates, Dr. Marc Lederman, and Dr. Kurt Rode treat a variety of foot and ankle conditions, such as ankle sprains, fractures, running injuries, sports injuries, pediatric foot care, bunions, heel pain, and neuromas. We provide superior podiatric solutions to patients of all ages in Hartford County. Contact us at 860-236-2564 for all your foot and ankle needs. Our office is at 2531 Albany Ave, West Hartford, CT 06117.

Fixes For Foot Fractures

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.

Common Pediatric Foot and Ankle Problems

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.

Living With Arthritis

Living with arthritis can cause you to limit your daily activity, preventing you from enjoying some of the things you love. Even though there’s no cure for this condition, there are plenty of ways to treat and overcome arthritis with the help of your podiatrist. Here’s a simple guide for taking care of your arthritis.

Ask About Inserts

One of the best ways to manage arthritis is by considering custom orthotics and shoe inserts. Orthotics are designed to be worn inside your shoe, providing support and lessening the pain of the condition you’re dealing with. For arthritis, they can also put less pressure on your joints and increase mobility.

Steer Clear of Injuries

Minimizing any activities that further aggravate your condition is highly recommended. For those who love to go on a daily run, limit your activity to a short walk. Always pay attention to how your body responds and adjust from there. If you push yourself too far, you risk injuring yourself. Swimming and cycling are also great alternatives to high-impact sports. Staying active despite arthritis is important since maintaining a healthy weight can help put less stress on your joints.

Consider Your Pain-Management Options

There are plenty of exercises that help increase flexibility and strengthen muscles in your feet and ankles. Your podiatrist can help you develop a personalized exercise routine that fits your needs. In most cases, physical therapy is a great way to lessen pain from arthritis. But for others, exercise and movement can lead to more pain. If this is the case, let your podiatrist know.

Talk With Your Podiatrist

If your arthritis pain and discomfort impact your life daily, it might be time to talk with your podiatrist about surgery. There are numerous types of surgery, all based on where your arthritis is located and its impact on your joints.

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.

All About Ankle Injuries

Summer is in the air! When it comes to your warm weather plans, it’s important to remember to keep yourself safe and injury free, especially when it comes to your feet and ankles. Pool parties can be fun, but a slip can lead to a fracture if you’re not careful. Wearing flip-flops or sandals might let your toes breathe, but twisting an ankle is too easy. If you have an ankle injury this summer, seeing a podiatrist is important. Don’t ignore your pain!

Here’s what you need to know about the two most common ankle injuries, fractures, and sprains:

Ankle Fractures

Fractures occur when excess force causes bones to break or crack. Stress fractures are smaller cracks in the bone caused by repeated overuse. General fractures are deeper breaks caused by falls or sudden applications of force. Severe cases may involve injury to the surrounding tendons and ligaments and may require surgery.

Symptoms include:
  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Inability to bear weight
  • Sensitivity to touch

Treating a fracture quickly and efficiently is extremely important. Contact your foot doctor ASAP! In the meantime, use the R.I.C.E. treatment and closely follow your podiatrist’s treatment instructions following your assessment appointment.

 

Ankle Sprains

Sprains occur when ligaments (connective solid bands of tissue) surrounding the ankle are stretched or torn. This commonly occurs when the foot rolls underneath the ankle during high-intensity activities. Sprains can also occur when walking on uneven surfaces.

Symptoms include:
  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising

Once a sprain occurs, follow the RICE protocol: rest, ice, compress, and elevate. If your sprain doesn’t improve after a few days, call your podiatrist and schedule an appointment. A severe sprain may require surgery to repair the injured ligaments.

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.

Bunions

Beating Bunions

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. Bunions

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.

Injuries

Avoid Injuries This Winter

Weather can play a large part in staying safe during our activities and sports. Just like the summer heat and humidity can lead to exhaustion and dehydration, winter has its fair share of effects on your body, too. From blisters to frostbite, it’s best to take precautions to avoid worst-case scenarios. Here’s how you can have fun and avoid injuries this winter! Injuries

Reduce Your Risk

Winter activities can put a lot of strain and pressure on your legs. Both your knees and ankles act as a “shock absorber” and brakes while you ski, snowboard, and skate. Using knee braces while you participate in winter sports can limit the risk of an injury.

Make sure your ski bindings are adequately adjusted according to your skill level and always fall to the side instead of forward or backward. For ankle sprains, which are most common during snowboarding, work on your balance with a wobble board. Consider sports insoles and ankle tape, as well.

Choose The Appropriate Gear

Dressing appropriately for whatever activity you’re participating in is key to comfortability and preventing an injury. Buying the right footwear can not only help with great performance, but it’ll save you from a trip to the emergency room or podiatry office. Using ice grips or traction devices can help with potential falls and slips.

If you’re using rental skates, make sure you try on a few sizes and choose the most comfortable one. Wearing thick, padded socks will help with blisters. Make sure you lace up your skates tightly around the ankle to prevent sprains.

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.

Warts

Swiftly Treating Warts

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. Warts

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.

Podiatrist

Five Signs It’s Time to See a Podiatrist

Most people with problems with their feet or ankles don’t see a podiatrist for two reasons. One, they don’t know who to call for help. Two, they think regular foot pain is normal. If you have any ongoing concerns about your feet, it’s time to call your podiatrist. A podiatrist is a doctor who specializes in caring for your foot and ankle issues. Because our feet carry us and walk us through life, it’s important to take care of them. Here are five signs you should give a podiatrist a call. Podiatrist

Swelling, pain, or numbness

Occasional pain or swelling after a long day of walking is normal. But persistent problems with your foot or ankle, especially if it interferes with your daily life, is a sign you need to see a specialist. Heel pain is especially common and has a lot of root causes.

Breaks

Think you’ve fractured or broken a bone? Calling a podiatrist for help is crucial in avoiding further complications.

Diabetes

If you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, you’re at a higher risk for developing foot problems. Poor circulation, numbness, and nerve damage are very common. Working with a podiatrist to prevent any injury or complications is recommended.

Nail Fungus

Dealing with nail fungus isn’t fun. But with better technology, treating nail fungus is getting easier and more efficient. If you suspect you have a case of nail fungus, call a podiatrist near you, and schedule an appointment.

Bunions

If you have a painful, bony bump on the joint of your big toe, chances are you’re dealing with a bunion. Ignoring your bunion will only worsen, as they tend to get bigger and more painful without treatment.

When it comes to your feet, if you’re experiencing any pain or discomfort or notice anything unusual, it’s time to call your podiatrist.

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

Fall

Fixing Problems to Avoid a Fall

September is Falls Prevention Awareness Month and it is also Healthy Aging Month. With these two topics in mind, we’re considering our older patients. While aging gracefully, some concerns come along. Did you know that more than one out of four people older than 65 fall annually? The statistic comes from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. If you care for an older loved one, here’s another fact: less than half of seniors who fall will tell the doctor. Fall

The doctors at West Hartford Podiatry Associates know the risks of falls and the impacts on overall health, including foot and ankle health. The risk of falls increases with age, but there are some things you and your family can do to stay safe. Keep reading for more tips.

Don’t fall for the myth that only older people fall. They are at an increased risk, but everyone should fall-proof their lifestyle; if you fall once, the likelihood of falling again doubles. Knowing this fact can cause fear and anxiety.

Here are three ways to fix problems to avoid a fall:

Find ways to fall-proof your home

Unfortunately, many falls happen at home. It is sad because we should feel safest here. If you are trying to reduce the risk of a tumble, consider adding nightlights, cleaning the clutter in rooms to make a clear pathway, and tossing slippery rugs.

Strengthen your bones

As we age, we must stay on top of our nutrients. We may lack vitamin D or even calcium, which puts our bones at risk of injury. For seniors, a fall can lead to a fracture. The recovery and loss of confidence in mobility can be life-altering.

Know the signs

Education is a key factor in prevention. If you or a loved one is experiencing balance issues, there’s a fall risk. New medication may have side effects that could lead to dizziness. Take note of new risks in your home and act fast. The decision could prevent a fall.

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.

West Hartford Podiatry Associates

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Podiatrist in West Hartford, CT
West Hartford Podiatry
2531 Albany Ave
West Hartford, CT 06117
860-236-2564

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Albany Ave West Hartford, CT

860-236-2564

Podiatrist in West Hartford, CT
West Hartford Podiatry Associates
2531 Albany Ave
West Hartford, CT 06117

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