Hammertoe is a common toe deformity in which a toe curls down instead of pointing forward, often affecting the middle joint. This abnormal position can lead to discomfort, irritation, and difficulty wearing shoes. Hammertoe may develop due to a prior toe injury, arthritis that alters joint structure, or a high foot arch that creates muscle imbalance. Wearing shoes that do not fit right, especially those that are tight or narrow in the toe box, can worsen the condition over time. As the toe remains bent, pressure and friction may cause pain, corns, or calluses. A podiatrist can diagnose hammertoe and create a personalized treatment plan that may include footwear guidance, custom orthotics, exercises, or advanced care, if needed. If you have toe pain from hammertoe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Deborah Rosenfeld from Rosenfeld Podiatry. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Marlton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetic foot refers to a group of foot problems that can develop in people with diabetes due to changes in circulation and nerve function. Causes include poor blood flow, nerve damage, and prolonged high blood sugar levels that affect healing and skin health. Symptoms may involve numbness, tingling, burning pain, or dry or cracked skin, in addition to color changes, slow healing wounds, or ulcers. Risk factors include long-term diabetes, poor glucose control, smoking, improper footwear, and a history of foot wounds or infections. Without proper care, diabetic foot problems can lead to serious complications. A podiatrist can help by providing regular foot exams, managing calluses and nail care, treating wounds, and recommending protective footwear or custom orthotics. If you have diabetes and have noticed changes in your feet, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious 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 Deborah Rosenfeld from Rosenfeld Podiatry. Our doctor 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 our office located in Marlton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A diabetic foot ulcer is an open sore or wound that can develop on the feet of individuals with diabetes, often caused by poor circulation, neuropathy, or pressure on certain areas. These ulcers progress through stages, from superficial skin breakdown to deeper tissue involvement. Classification systems, such as the Wagner diabetic foot ulcer classification, help determine severity by assessing wound size, depth, and the presence of infection or gangrene. Proper assessment allows for targeted treatment and reduces the risk of complications. A podiatrist can evaluate the ulcer, provide wound care, recommend protective footwear, and guide therapies to promote healing and prevent recurrence. If you have diabetes and notice any sores, swelling, or changes in your feet, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Deborah Rosenfeld from Rosenfeld Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Marlton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Caring for older feet is important for maintaining mobility, comfort, and daily independence. As people age, their feet naturally lose strength and flexibility, making it important to stay active to support balance and reduce the risk of falling. Checking the feet each day can help identify changes such as swelling, skin issues, or discomfort before they become serious. Keeping blood circulating through gentle movement and choosing supportive shoes can prevent strain and improve stability. Older adults should also protect their feet from cold exposure to avoid poor circulation or skin problems. A podiatrist can provide guidance, manage chronic conditions, and offer preventive care to keep feet healthy. If you have any type of foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional foot care tips.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Deborah Rosenfeld from Rosenfeld Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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