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Hammertoe is a deformity where the toe bends downward at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. It often affects the second, third, or fourth toe. Common causes include unusually long toe bones, muscle imbalances, rheumatoid arthritis, and foot injuries. Among other causes are bunions pushing against the toe, years of wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, and genetic factors. Symptoms include pain while wearing shoes, visible bending of the toe, corns or calluses from friction, inflammation, redness, and restricted movement. The toe may appear raised at the joint and feel stiff or sore, especially during walking or pressure. A podiatrist can diagnose hammertoe with a physical exam and imaging, if needed. Treatment options include wearing roomier shoes, using custom orthotics, toe splints or pads, and prescribing anti-inflammatory medication. In more advanced cases, surgical correction may be recommended. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Clinics, PA. 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Woodbury, West St. Paul, and Edina, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pain in the big toe can change the way a person walks, especially when caused by a stiff joint at the base of the toe, a condition known as hallux rigidus. This problem develops when the big toe joint wears down over time, making it harder and more painful when it bends. Since this joint helps push the foot off the ground with each step, limited movement often forces people to shift weight to the outside of the foot or avoid rolling through the toes. This change in walking pattern, or gait, can strain other parts of the foot, including the smaller toes, the arch, and the ankle. Over time, this may lead to pain, muscle soreness, or even problems with balance. Some people also notice swelling or a bump on top of the toe joint. A podiatrist can check how the big toe joint moves, look for signs of wear, and offer treatment. Options include medication, shoe support, or surgery, if the joint is badly damaged. If you are experiencing pain in the big toe when you take a step, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot and Ankle Clinics, PA. 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 contact our offices located in Woodbury, West St. Paul, and Edina, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the big toe. It can develop suddenly, causing intense pain, redness, warmth, and swelling in the affected joint. Causes include high levels of uric acid in the blood, which may result from eating certain foods, dehydration, or kidney problems. Risk factors include obesity, high blood pressure, family history, and excessive alcohol intake. A podiatrist can diagnose gout through a physical examination and testing, then provide relief through medications, lifestyle guidance, and ongoing management. If you are experiencing sudden joint pain in your foot or ankle, it is suggested that you promptly visit a podiatrist who can help you manage this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Clinics, PA. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Woodbury, West St. Paul, and Edina, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetic foot ulcers are open sores or wounds that commonly develop on the bottom of the foot in people with diabetes. Poor circulation and nerve damage reduce the body’s ability to heal and feel pain, which means even small injuries can turn into serious ulcers without notice. These ulcers may appear as red, swollen, or draining wounds, and often do not cause pain, making them easy to overlook. A podiatrist plays a vital role in treating and preventing diabetic foot ulcers. Treatment may include cleaning the wound, removing dead tissue called debridement, applying special dressings, and using custom footwear or orthotics to relieve pressure. In advanced cases, infection control and even surgery may be necessary. Diabetic foot ulcers precede 85 percent of diabetes-related limb losses, making early detection and treatment critical. If you have diabetes and are experiencing foot problems, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

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 Foot and Ankle Clinics, PA. 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 our offices located in Woodbury, West St. Paul, and Edina, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.