Items filtered by date: September 2024

Hammertoe is a deformity where one of the toes, often the second, becomes bent in a fixed Z-shaped position. This causes discomfort and difficulty in wearing certain types of shoes and walking. Hammertoe is often the result of tendon imbalances, long metatarsal bones, and poor joint alignment. Rheumatoid arthritis, genetics, or prolonged wearing of ill-fitting shoes are other factors. The bent position of the toe can lead to excessive friction, which can result in painful calluses, corns, and even open sores on top of the affected toe. Treatment options typically involve wearing shoes with a wider toe box to reduce irritation, using orthotic devices to alleviate pain in the ball of the foot, and taping or splinting the toe to provide temporary relief. In more severe cases, where the toe is rigidly fixed and pain persists, surgery may be required to straighten the toe. If you have a painful hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Palmetto Podiatry Group of Anderson. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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

Foot stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bones of the foot that result from repetitive stress or overuse, rather than a sudden injury. They most commonly occur in the weight-bearing bones, such as the metatarsals, navicular, calcaneus, or heel bone. These fractures are prevalent in athletes, particularly runners, dancers, and military recruits, due to the repetitive impact on the feet. Stress fractures develop when the bones are unable to withstand the repeated pressure and stress, especially if the activity level increases suddenly or the bones are weakened by conditions like osteoporosis. Symptoms include pain that worsens with activity, swelling, tenderness, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, and imaging tests such as X-rays or an MRI scan may be required to confirm the fracture. Relief includes rest and avoiding weight-bearing activities. In some cases, a boot or crutches may be needed to allow the fracture to heal properly. If you have injured your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Palmetto Podiatry Group of Anderson. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

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