There are small bone segments that are connected by joints in the toes of each foot. A condition that is referred to as hammertoe occurs when the joint in one of the toes becomes deformed and causes the toe to bend downward, resembling a hammer. Additionally, it may typically affect the toe next to it, and may become painful and uncomfortable. There are several reasons why hammertoe may develop, including wearing poorly fitting footwear, which may generally include shoes with inadequate room for the toes to move freely in, medical conditions such as arthritis, or a genetic disposition. If you feel you may have developed hammertoe, an examination is needed so a proper diagnosis can be determined, which is generally performed by a podiatrist. Treatment options may then be discussed that can include performing gentle foot stretches, which may help to relax the tendons surrounding the affected joint, or having your toe splinted, which may aid in straightening the toes out.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Associates, PLLC. Our doctors 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 contact one of our offices located in Lake Worth and Aledo/Willow Park, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

When the sugar levels in the blood become elevated, the medical condition that is known as diabetes may occur. The feet may become affected as a result of this, and proper care must be given, which may avoid uncomfortable and painful foot ailments. These may include diabetic neuropathy, which may make it difficult to feel any wounds or cuts that may be present, or peripheral vascular disease, which may limit blood flow to the feet. Research has shown that foot conditions that are associated with diabetes will benefit from effective treatment methods when implemented. These may include properly taking care of wounds or infections that may have developed, in addition to possibly wearing a boot, which may relieve pressure off the foot. If you are a diabetic patient, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can properly monitor this condition, which may affect the feet.

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 one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Associates, PLLC. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Lake Worth and Aledo/Willow Park, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

If you have consistent pain and discomfort in the heel of your foot, you may have a medical condition that is referred to as plantar fasciitis. It will typically target people who are active in running sports, or for those who stand for the majority of the day. This ailment is a result of inflammation that occurs in the long portion of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, which links the toes to the heel, and this is known as the plantar fascia. A common symptom of this ailment is severe heel pain, which may often be worse in the morning when the first steps are taken. Some patients have specific tendencies that may encourage the development of this condition, including being overweight, wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or are born with flat feet or high arches. There are possible techniques that may offer moderate relief, and these may include performing proper foot stretches, resting your feet as often as possible, or wearing shoe inserts. If you have developed this condition, it’s suggested to speak with a podiatrist to understand what treatment options are correct for you.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Advanced Foot & Ankle Associates, PLLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lake Worth and Aledo/Willow Park, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

There are many women who enjoy wearing high heels despite knowing foot pain may develop from wearing these specific type of shoes. Research has shown that when the heel is high, the arch in the foot may become inflamed and this may typically cause pain and discomfort. If high heels are worn on a frequent basis, the toes may undergo stress, and this may possibly cause corns and calluses to develop. The likelihood of incurring a fall may increase as a result of the line of gravity being altered by the height of the heel. There are several ways to enjoy wearing high heels while keeping your feet as comfortable as possible. These may include slipping off your shoes at an appropriate time and performing gentle stretching exercises, including pointing, flexing and rolling your ankles. Additionally, circulation in the feet may be increased by wiggling the toes. Your feet may benefit by wearing shoes that are more comfortable the following day, which may allow the foot muscles to rest. Please speak to a podiatrist if you would like additional information concerning the dangers of wearing high heels.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Associates, PLLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lake Worth and Aledo/Willow Park, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The uncomfortable condition known as Athlete’s foot appears as a rash on the feet that is generally itchy. The medical name for this condition is called tinea pedis and is caused by a fungus that typically thrives in warm and dark areas. There are several symptoms that may be associated with this ailment, including skin that is cracked in between the toes, experiencing a burning sensation or possibly an unpleasant foot odor. Research has shown there may be preventative measures that can be implemented to avoid this condition from developing. These may include washing and drying the feet thoroughly, wearing appropriate shoes while in public showers, pools, and surrounding areas, and choosing to wear shoes and socks that are made of breathable materials. It is advised to speak with a podiatrist if you feel you have Athlete’s foot, so a proper diagnosis can be performed and correct treatment options may be discussed.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Associates, PLLC.  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lake Worth and Aledo/Willow Park, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.