July 2020

A bunion is defined as a bony growth that develops on the side of the big toe. It can cause the middle toes to shift and may make it difficult to wear shoes. Severe bunions may cause limited mobility and instability, and people who enjoy practicing yoga may find it is challenging to balance. Bunions may develop due to genetic factors, or from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely. When specific practices in yoga are performed, it may be beneficial for gradually aligning the feet, which may help prevent bunions from developing. If you would like additional information about bunions and how yoga stretches may help any accompanying discomfort, please consult with a podiatrist.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact the podiatrists of Dr. Siegerman & Associates. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Drexel Hill and West Chester, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Orthotics are described as insoles that are designed specifically to fit your foot. An imprint is taken of the foot, and a mold is created to construct the orthotic. The benefits of wearing custom-made orthotics can include eliminating or reducing strain on the body. This can happen as a result of re-aligning the feet which may help to correct the gait. They are beneficial in correcting foot structure and function, which can make it easier to complete daily activities. Patients who have specific foot conditions may find it desirable to learn how orthotics can help their particular foot ailment, and it is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist for this information.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact the podiatrists from Dr. Siegerman & Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Drexel Hill and West Chester, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

“Pes Planus” is the medical term for the foot condition known as flat feet. It can also be referred to as fallen arches and is noticeable while standing on the floor. Many babies are born with flat feet, and the arch will typically develop by the age of six. Some children have calf muscles that are inflexible, and this may affect arch development as well. Mild relief may be found when proper shoes are worn, and it may help to perform specific foot stretches. If the muscles in the feet are weak, it may be beneficial to walk on varied surfaces that can consist of grass and sand. If your child has not developed arches in their feet, it is strongly advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can determine what the best course of treatment is.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact the podiatrists from Dr. Siegerman & Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is 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. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches 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. 

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

There are many children that experience foot conditions during their childhood and teenage years. The ankle may become weak from frequently participating in running and jumping activities, and this may result in ankle sprains. This typically causes difficulty in walking, and mild relief may be felt when the affected foot is elevated and wrapped with an elastic bandage. Older teens may develop a condition known as athlete’s foot. This is caused by a fungus that lives in warm environments, and can thrive in moist socks and sneakers. Active children may develop blisters on their feet. This is often caused by excess friction that can come from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. If you would like additional information about foot conditions your child may have developed, it is advised that you speak to a podiatrist.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact the podiatrists of Dr. Siegerman & 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 Drexel Hill and West Chester, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.