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Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis
The joints in the feet can be negatively affected by the autoimmune condition known as rheumatoid arthritis. This is often referred to as RA, which is the abbreviation. The common symptoms that are often associated with this type of arthritis can include swelling, pain, and a limited range of motion. Many patients have difficulty in completing daily activities as a result of the intense pain and this can affect more than the joints. The cartilage, ligaments, and tendons may become painful and can progress quickly. Some of the foot issues that may develop from RA are bunions, claw toes, and flattened arches. Some people can have their circulation affected and this can lead to nerve damage. RA can become triggered by an existing infection, stress, and lack of sleep. This condition can produce serious complications to the feet and it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage rheumatoid arthritis.
Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.
Symptoms
- Swelling and pain in the feet
- Stiffness in the feet
- Pain on the ball or sole of feet
- Joint shift and deformation
Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Who Is Prone to Cuboid Syndrome?
Cuboid syndrome is a foot condition that can occur when the cuboid bone moves out of alignment. This can happen as a result of an acute injury or can gradually become misplaced as the aging process occurs. It can be more common among athletes and dancers than in the rest of the population and is generally triggered by physical activity. Pain and discomfort with cuboid syndrome are felt on the outside of the foot and the pain may be relieved when the weight is taken off the foot. Additional symptoms of this condition can include a limited range of motion in the foot and ankle and there may be bruising and swelling on the sole of the foot. People who have an abnormal foot structure like flat feet may be prone to developing cuboid syndrome. Additionally, patients who are obese, people who run on uneven surfaces, and wearing shoes that do not fit correctly may be possible causes of cuboid syndrome. Mild relief can come frequently resting the foot, and temporarily stopping the activity that may have caused this condition. This is a foot condition that is treated by a podiatrist, and it is suggested that you contact one for permanent treatment options if you are afflicted with cuboid syndrome.
Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.
Causes
The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:
- Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
- Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
- Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.
Symptoms
A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
When You Feel Ankle Pain After Cardio Exercise
There are several reasons why you may experience soreness in your ankles after a cardio workout. For instance, your footwear may not fit properly. When purchasing exercise footwear, it is wise to shop after a workout or at the end of the day to ensure a comfortable fit after your feet have expanded from heat or exercise. It is also important to try on shoes with the same socks you’ll wear while exercising. Check to make sure that your toes have room to move around and that your heel does not slip out while you are walking. If footwear is not the culprit, it may be Achilles tendinitis. This large tendon connects your heel with your calf muscles and can sometimes suffer from overuse injuries due to high-intensity cardio exercise. Pain from Achilles tendinitis can be felt at the back of the heel and ankle. Or, you may have a compressed posterior tibial nerve that passes through the tarsal tunnel, resulting in tarsal tunnel syndrome. This condition may develop after a sprained ankle, or if you excessively roll your feet inward when you walk or run, known as overpronation. Check with your podiatrist who can determine the cause of your ankle pain after a cardio workout and treat it accordingly.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
- Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
- Ankle sprains
- Broken ankles
- Achilles tendonitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- Bursitis
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Tendonitis in the Foot and Ankle
Tendons are thick bands of tissue that connect muscles to bones. The feet and ankles have a large number of tendons, any of which can become inflamed, a condition known as tendonitis. The main cause of tendonitis is overuse from repetitive movement. For that reason tendonitis is especially common to runners, because if a tendon is made to work too hard or too long it can develop tears. Other causes of foot and ankle tendonitis include an abnormal foot structure like flat feet or high arches, an injury, or a medical condition, such as gout or rheumatoid arthritis. The primary symptom of tendonitis in the foot or ankle is sharp, burning pain, often followed by swelling and stiffness. In many cases, tendonitis can be treated successfully, though the recovery period may take weeks, or even months. The first way to begin the process is to rest the painful area and cease the activity that caused it. If pain continues, or worsens, it is a good idea to visit a podiatrist for a thorough exam. The doctor may prescribe a variety of treatment options to ease the inflammation, including medication, orthotics, and exercises.
Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:
- Broken bones
- Muscle strains
- Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
- Stress fractures
Symptoms
Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:
- Bruising
- Inflammation/ Swelling
- Pain
Diagnosis
To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.
Treatment
Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?
If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!
When Sweaty, Smelly Feet Are Not Normal
When the sweat on your feet gets trapped by unnatural shoe fibers or tight shoes and cannot evaporate quickly enough, this allows bacteria to begin to break the sweat down. This process is actually what creates the foul odor associated with feet. If you do not wash the sweat away or allow your shoes to air out properly, your feet and shoes will remain smelly. Warm climates, physical exercise, and certain types of shoes can naturally make feet sweat at times. This type of sweat is normal, as it is the body’s way of regulating temperature. However, if none of these factors is present and your feet are sweating persistently and excessively, this may be a condition called palmoplantar hyperhidrosis. If you find that you sweat through your socks, or that your feet slip and slide around in your shoes, or are always wet and white looking, you may have palmoplantar hyperhidrosis. Also, your feet may smell due to being continuously wet, creating an environment where bacteria are always working to break the sweat down. All of these symptoms can be embarrassing, uncomfortable, and disruptive to daily life. If you believe you may have palmoplantar hyperhidrosis, make an appointment with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat your condition. They may present treatment options ranging from topical medications and antiperspirants, to botox injections. In severe cases, a process using a mild electrical current through water may be successful in helping to regulate your sweat glands.
If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.
Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.
In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.
A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Runners and Blisters
People who enjoy running are often familiar with blisters. Patients who get them often can generally feel when they are developing blisters and may wear running socks to prevent them. Blisters come from wearing shoes and socks that can cause excess friction and develop as the body’s natural defense to heal damaged skin. It is defined as a small area that resembles a bubble that is filled with fluid, and it immediately forms over the damaged skin. When new skin has formed, the blister will gradually drain as it is no longer needed. There may be existing medical reasons why people get blisters including eczema and psoriasis, in addition to having overly dry skin. A bunion may be the cause of blisters forming on the feet and this often happens from wearing shoes that are too tight. It is beneficial for people who run to gradually build up the skin on their feet as this may lead to getting blisters less often. If you frequently get blisters on your feet and would like to know more information about treatment and prevention, please confer with a podiatrist.
Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.
What Are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
Symptoms
(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)
- Bubble of skin filled with fluid
- Redness
- Moderate to severe pain
- Itching
Prevention & Treatment
In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Hard and Soft Corns
A small area of hardened skin on the pinky toe, top of the toes, or on the sole of the foot can be a corn. It develops as a result of excess friction that can happen from wearing shoes that are too tight. Additionally, corns can develop from standing or walking for long periods as a result of the weight and constant pressure from the body. There are noticeable signs of corns, like sensitive skin surrounding the corn, and it may be difficult to wear shoes. Hard corns are the most common and often form in wider areas of thickened skin, and soft corns develop between the toes and remain moist. Some corns may feel better when the foot is soaked in warm water, followed by gently rubbing it with a pumice stone. If the corn is a bit larger, it can be difficult to remove and will often need medical attention. Many people will wear a protective pad over the corn as this can provide protection and temporary relief until medical attention is sought. It is beneficial to wear shoes that fit properly and this may be an effective method in preventing corns. Corns are treated by a podiatrist and it is advised that you schedule an appointment with this type of doctor to correctly remove your corn.
If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:
- Well-fitting socks
- Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
- Shoes that offer support
Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctors to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Pain in the Pinky Toe
Pain in the fifth toe, commonly referred to as the pinky toe, can be quite problematic. Although the pinky is the smallest of all the toes on the feet, pinky toe pain can be uncomfortable nonetheless. Since this toe is located on the outside of the foot, the pinky toe can be especially prone to stubbing and injuries. If you are experiencing pain in the pinky toe, there could be any number of causes. First, you might have broken or fractured the pinky toe. Broken toes will sometimes release a popping sound when impacted. X-rays might be needed to analyze the toe and its fracture. Another potential cause of pinky toe pain is ill-fitting footwear that makes the pinky toe rub up against the shoe. Lastly, pinky toe pain can be caused by the development of a corn. Similar to a thick, hardened callus, corns on the pinky toe can be painful when they are rubbed against the inside of a pair of shoes. Pain in the pinky toe is no joke — it is suggested you see a podiatrist who can help you address the problem.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Causes Toe Pain?
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Trauma
- Sports injury
- Wearing shoes that are too tight
- Arthritis
- Gout
- Corns and calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Blisters
- Ingrown toenails
- Sprains
- Fractures (broken bones)
- Dislocations
When to See a Podiatrist
- Severe pain
- Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
- Signs of infection
- Continued swelling
- Pain that prevents walking
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?
Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.
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An Achilles Tendon Injury May Be More Common Among Men
The medical term for the part of the foot that is known as the Achilles tendon is referred to as the calcaneal tendon. It is located in the back of the calf, and connects the heel to the calf muscles. It is considered to be the largest tendon in the body, and is responsible for pointing and flexing the foot. A foot mishap may result in an Achilles tendon injury, and this often causes severe pain and discomfort. This tendon could partially tear, and in the worse case scenario, may completely rupture. It can happen to people who enjoy the sport of running, and increasing the mileage and speed too soon may result in this type of injury. It is common among men who choose to participate in certain sporting activities during time off from work, and their bodies may not be used to twisting and turning, and the Achilles tendon may become injured. The symptoms that are generally associated with this condition include swelling, the inability to stand, and there may be a popping noise at the time of the injury. For a ruptured Achilles tendon, surgery may be necessary to repair the foot so daily activities can resume. If you have injured your Achilles tendon, please consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the best treatment options for you.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
- Inflammation
- Dull to severe pain
- Increased blood flow to the tendon
- Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
- Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
- Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Is My Toe Broken or Bruised?
The most common method of differentiating between a broken toe and a bruised toe is to have an X-ray taken. They both can cause severe pain and discomfort. A severely broken toe can look deformed, and the bone can protrude from the toe at an abnormal angle. The symptoms that are associated with both of these types of injuries can include swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. The buddy taping system for a bruised toe can cause the affected toe to feel better, as a result of the stability it provides. This is done by taping the toe to the toe next to it, and having it remain that way for several days. The buddy taping method works well for broken toes, as it causes the injured toe to remain still as the healing process occurs. In both scenarios, it is suggested to refrain from putting weight on the foot, which gives the broken or bruised toe ample time to heal. If you think you have broken or bruised your toe, it is advised to have it checked by a podiatrist who can guide you toward the proper treatment.
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 New York Foot and Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Toenail Fungus Is Contagious, and May Be Prevented
Toenail fungus can be an unpleasant and unsightly foot condition, despite the fact it is generally not serious. The majority of people may experience this type of fungus at some point in their lives, and it can be difficult to treat. It occurs as a result of the fungus entering the body through tiny cracks in the skin on the feet. This type of fungus is known to be contagious, and it lives and thrives in warm and moist environments, including shower room floors and locker rooms. It is advised to wear appropriate shoes while in these types of areas, as this can help to stop the spread of toenail fungus. The noticeable symptoms consist of a thickening and yellowing of the toenails, often starting with the big toe. This infection can cause the toenails to become brittle, and they may be difficult to trim correctly. In severe cases, the surrounding skin can become red and irritated, and may begin to itch. Many patients have found effective preventive methods for this type of fungus. These consist of wearing shoes that are made of natural materials, and refraining from sharing towels, shoes, and socks. Additionally, shoes that have been contaminated with this fungus need to be replaced, and keeping the toenails trimmed may aid in helping to prevent toenail fungus. If you are afflicted with this infection, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist at the beginning stages who can offer you correct treatment techniques.
For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.
Antifungals & Deterrence
Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.
Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
The Connection Between Hammertoes and Improper Footwear
Wearing shoes that fit your feet and are comfortable can avoid many problems. Hammertoes are one such problem that can develop from wearing shoes that have pointy toes, are too tight, or that otherwise put pressure on your toes. The second and third toes are the most likely toes to be affected. Hammertoes get their name because the middle joint of the toe gets stuck in an upward bent position, creating a deformity resembling a hammer. This deformity is the result of an imbalance in the muscles and ligaments around the toe joint caused by either improper footwear or other factors such as genetics, overly high arches, bunions, injuries, and certain medical conditions. Shoes with uppers that are soft and flexible, as well as those that provide arch support and ample room in the toe box, can help prevent hammertoes. It is important to treat hammertoes early, before they become rigid. A podiatrist can treat your hammertoe and may also help you select footwear that will help prevent hammertoes from occurring in the future.
Hammertoe
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. 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 Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
