Orthotics are specialized shoe inserts, or insoles, designed to provide support, cushioning, and alignment to the feet. These custom-made devices are prescribed to individuals for various reasons, aiming to address a range of foot-related issues and improve overall foot health. One of the primary reasons to wear orthotics is to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with conditions such as plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or bunions. These devices can help distribute pressure more evenly across the foot, reducing strain and preventing further damage. Orthotics can also improve alignment, correct gait abnormalities, and support the arches. This can be beneficial for individuals with irregular foot structures or those who engage in high impact activities. Additionally, orthotics can aid in injury prevention by promoting proper biomechanics and reducing stress on the feet, knees, hips, and lower back. Orthotics can be a valuable tool for maintaining foot health, preventing injuries, and enhancing overall comfort and mobility. If you would like more information about the benefits of custom orthotics, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. 

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Center. 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 our offices located in Lehigh Ave and Nazareth Hospital in Philadelphia, Collegeville Darby, and Langhorne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The feet are the foundation of our body's mobility, and ensuring their health is crucial from an early age. Some children are born with congenital foot conditions that require attention and care. One common condition is clubfoot, where a baby's foot is turned inward and downward. Early intervention through gentle manipulation and casting can often correct this issue effectively. Another condition is metatarsus adductus, which is noticeable as a baby's foot turns inward. Stretching exercises and sometimes bracing can help align the foot properly. Polydactyly, the presence of extra toes, is another congenital condition. Surgical removal may be necessary to correct this condition if it affects the child's mobility. Regular checkups with a podiatrist can ensure early detection and appropriate management of congenital foot conditions, promoting healthy foot development for your child. If your child has been born with a foot condition, it is strongly suggested that you have this type of doctor on your healthcare team.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Lehigh Ave and Nazareth Hospital in Philadelphia, Collegeville Darby, and Langhorne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A broken toe can be a painful and frustrating experience, but with patience and proper care, it can mend successfully. The first step in healing a broken toe is to seek medical attention from a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and to rule out any complications. Once diagnosed, the primary focus is on rest and protection. This often involves wearing a splint, cast, or buddy taping, which is taping the broken toe to the toe next to it. This is generally successful in immobilizing the injured area. Elevating the foot can help reduce swelling, while taking over-the-counter pain relievers can manage discomfort. Avoid putting weight on the affected toe and opt for comfortable, supportive footwear. Healing times can vary but typically range from a few weeks to a couple of months. As your toe begins to mend, performing several range of motion exercises that can aid in recovery is beneficial. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide you toward the best treatment methods for you.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Lehigh Ave and Nazareth Hospital in Philadelphia, Collegeville Darby, and Langhorne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, can be stubborn and challenging to treat with traditional methods. However, recent advancements in medical technology have introduced an effective alternative, which is known as laser therapy. This innovative approach utilizes concentrated beams of light to target and eliminate the fungus residing beneath the toenail. The laser treatment process begins with the application of the laser, which penetrates the nail. This specifically targets the fungal infection while leaving the surrounding healthy tissue unharmed. The laser generates heat, effectively eradicating the fungal cells and inhibiting their ability to regrow. Laser treatment offers several advantages. It is non-invasive, requires no anesthesia, and typically involves minimal discomfort. Additionally, it can be extremely effective, often requiring fewer sessions than traditional treatments. Patients can generally resume their daily activities immediately following the procedure. As with any medical treatment, consultation with a podiatrist is crucial in determining what the best approach is for your specific condition. Laser therapy represents a promising option in the battle against stubborn toenail fungus, offering a safe, efficient, and minimally disruptive solution to restore healthy and clear nails. If you are afflicted with toenail fungus, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can determine if laser treatment is right for you.

Laser treatment can be an effective way to get rid of toenail fungus. If you have any questions about laser treatment, consult with one of our podiatrists from Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment for fungal nails.

What Are Toenail Fungal Infections?

Onychomycosis, or fungal infection of the nail, is a relatively common and non-serious condition. Around 10 percent of U.S. citizens are afflicted with fungal nails. Common forms of fungus that infect the nail include dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds.

Symptoms of Toenail Fungal Infections Include:

• Nail thickening
• Brittleness of the nail
• Discoloration of the nail

Diagnosis for Fungal Nails

Fungal infections are diagnosed by fungal culture and microscopy. This will rule out any other conditions such as nail trauma, psoriasis, lichen planus, and onychogryphosis.

What Is Laser Treatment?

Laser treatment is a non-invasive, safe, quick, and painless procedure that uses the heat from a laser to kill fungus in the nail. Each infected nail is targeted with a laser for several minutes. The treatment is usually utilized several different times over a select period. During this time, a podiatrist will keep an eye on the infection.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lehigh Ave and Nazareth Hospital in Philadelphia, Collegeville Darby, and Langhorne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.