Hammertoe is a deformity that causes one of the smaller toes to bend downward at its middle joint instead of lying flat. It most often affects the second toe, although it can occur in the third or fourth toes as well. In the early stages, the toe may still be flexible, but it can gradually become stiff if the condition progresses. Common symptoms include toe pain, swelling, and redness surrounding the affected joint. Some people also develop corns or calluses where the bent toe rubs against footwear. As the deformity worsens, walking and wearing shoes may become increasingly uncomfortable. Because hammertoe can become more difficult to treat over time, an early evaluation by a podiatrist is important to determine the severity of the condition and recommend appropriate treatment.

Several factors may contribute to hammertoe, including muscle imbalance, inherited foot structure, and wearing shoes that crowd the toes. Arthritis or previous toe injuries may also increase the risk. As the toe remains bent, the surrounding tendons and joints may become tighter, making it harder to straighten the toe. This can affect the way the foot functions while walking and place additional pressure on other areas of the foot. A comprehensive podiatry examination evaluates toe alignment, joint flexibility, and overall foot mechanics. Early diagnosis allows treatment to begin before the deformity becomes rigid or causes additional foot problems.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating hammertoe while evaluating the overall health and function of the foot. Professional care focuses on relieving pain, improving toe alignment, and helping preserve mobility. Treatment is tailored to each patient's symptoms, activity level, and the severity of the deformity. Regular follow-up visits also help monitor progression and identify changes that may require additional care. If you are experiencing toe pain, difficulty wearing shoes, or symptoms of hammertoe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM from Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. 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 Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Sever’s disease is a painful heel condition that affects growing children, especially those who participate in running and jumping activities. Despite its name, it is not an illness or an infection. It develops when repeated pulling on the growth plate, which is an area of developing bone near the end of a bone, irritates the back of the heel. Growth plates are weaker than mature bone, making them more vulnerable during periods of rapid growth. Symptoms include heel pain, tenderness, limping, and discomfort that becomes worse after sports or other physical activities. Some children also walk on their toes to avoid placing pressure on the painful heel. The condition usually affects children between 8 and 15 years of age and can involve one or both heels.

A podiatrist evaluates the child's foot structure, walking pattern, ankle movement, and heel tenderness to identify factors contributing to the condition. The examination also looks for tight muscles and abnormal foot mechanics that increase stress on the heel. Treatment includes custom orthotics when appropriate, footwear recommendations, and exercises that improve flexibility and strength. Wearing shoes that provide proper support can also reduce repeated stress on the heel during sports and everyday activities. Regular follow-up visits help monitor progress and adjust treatment as the child's feet continue to grow. Early podiatry care also supports comfortable movement and encourages a safe return to normal activities.

Although Sever’s disease can be painful, it does not cause permanent damage to the heel when properly managed. Symptoms usually improve once the growth plate matures and closes. Early evaluation helps reduce unnecessary strain on the heel and identify contributing factors before pain interferes with sports or daily life. Prompt podiatry care supports healthy foot development, improves comfort, and helps children stay active with greater confidence. If your child has symptoms of Sever’s disease, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Howard Abramsohn, DPM from Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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

Morton's neuroma affects the tissue surrounding a nerve, most often between the third and fourth toes. Although it is called a neuroma, it is not a tumor. Instead, the tissue around the nerve becomes thickened, placing pressure on the nerve and causing discomfort. Many people describe the sensation as burning, tingling, or numbness in the front of the foot. Others feel as though they are standing on a small pebble or a fold in their sock. Symptoms may become worse while walking or during other weight-bearing activities. Because several foot conditions can produce similar symptoms, a professional evaluation is important to identify the underlying cause and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

Repeated pressure on the forefoot is believed to play a role in the development of Morton's neuroma. Factors such as foot structure, repetitive activities, or irritation of the nerve may contribute to the condition. As the affected tissue becomes thicker, pressure on the nerve can increase and symptoms may become more frequent. Ongoing discomfort may also change the way a person walks, placing additional stress on other areas of the foot. A thorough podiatry evaluation helps determine the location of the nerve irritation and rule out other causes of forefoot pain. Early diagnosis can improve treatment planning and help reduce the risk of worsening symptoms.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating Morton's neuroma by evaluating foot structure, walking mechanics, and nerve function. Professional treatment is tailored to each patient's condition and focuses on relieving pressure on the affected nerve while improving overall foot function. Regular follow-up visits allow progress to be monitored and treatment to be adjusted when necessary. Early podiatry care may also help reduce pain and support a more comfortable return to daily activities. If burning pain, tingling, or numbness in your forefoot is affecting your mobility, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

In-office foot surgery in podiatry involves minor to moderate procedures performed in a controlled clinical setting rather than in a hospital. These procedures commonly address conditions such as ingrown toenails, soft tissue lesions, and certain structural abnormalities of the foot. With advances in medical technology and the use of local anesthesia, podiatrists can safely and effectively perform many treatments within the office environment. This approach allows patients to receive prompt care while avoiding the added complexity and cost often associated with hospital-based surgery.

Symptoms that may lead to in-office surgical treatment typically include persistent pain, swelling, infection, or reduced mobility that does not respond to conservative measures. Conditions like chronic ingrown toenails, painful calluses or skin lesions, and localized tendon or soft tissue issues can significantly interfere with daily activities. When these symptoms persist or worsen over time, a minor surgical procedure may be recommended to relieve discomfort and restore normal function.

Certain factors make patients good candidates for in-office procedures. These include having a localized condition, being in generally good health, and not requiring extensive or invasive surgical correction. Delaying necessary care can increase the risk of complications, including worsening infection, greater pain, and further limitations in mobility. Early evaluation by a podiatrist helps determine the most appropriate treatment plan and whether an in-office procedure is suitable.

The benefits of in-office foot surgery include shorter recovery times, lower costs, and greater convenience. Patients often appreciate the familiar clinical setting, minimal downtime, and the ability to return home shortly after treatment. With proper aftercare and follow-up, outcomes are typically very successful. If you have a foot condition that may require surgery, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can determine whether an in-office procedure is the right option for your needs.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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