The foot condition known as hammer toe is classified as a deformity of the toe. The top of the toe is bent downwards, and this often occurs as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit properly. These particular types of shoes often do not have adequate room in the area so the toes can move freely about, often causing the toes to cramp. The tendons and muscles of the toes and feet often become shorter, which may produce pain and discomfort. There may be additional foot conditions that may form as a result of hammertoe including corns and bunions. Measures can be implemented to reduce any discomfort that may be experienced. These may include choosing to wear shoes that fit properly, using corn pads to protect the joint that is protruding, and performing gentle exercises, which may aid in strengthening the muscles of the foot. If you have developed hammertoe, please consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible to discuss treatment options.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Bruce Smit, DPM of Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor 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
Risk Factors
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 Frankfort, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Pregnant women often experience foot conditions that may be a result of the changes the feet endure, which may be due to the additional weight. Foot pain is a common symptom, and this may occur the majority of the time, as a result of the feet becoming flat. Additional common symptoms that may affect the feet can include extreme swelling, which may also be referred to as edema, ingrown toenails, and cracked heels. The latter often occurs as a result of the additional weight, which may cause the feet to lose elasticity. The skin may become dry, and cracks may form, which is often uncomfortable and painful. Research has shown there may be preventative measures that can be implemented, which may help the feet to feel better. These may include elevating the feet as frequently during the day as possible, incorporating a gentle exercise program, and drinking plenty of fresh water as often as possible. If you are experiencing specific foot conditions, it’s helpful to consult with a podiatrist who can properly treat any foot condition you may have.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Bruce Smit, DPM from Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Frankfort, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Pregnancy and Foot Health
There is a type of nerve disorder that is known as peripheral neuropathy. The purpose of this type of nervous system is to provide a connection between the spinal cord, brain, and the central nervous system to the rest of the body. If these nerves should become damaged, peripheral neuropathy may begin to develop, and this may typically cause symptoms such as tingling in the feet or a loss of feeling. Additional symptoms may include experiencing a sharp pain, low blood pressure, or excessive sweating. There may be common reasons for this ailment to develop, including an inherited trait, an infection or an injury. If you are experiencing a sensation of “pins and needles” in your feet, please consider speaking with a podiatrist to learn what the best course of treatment may be for you.
Neuropathy
Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Bruce Smit, DPM from Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.
What Is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.
Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:
Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.
Treatment
To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.
Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Frankfort, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
The longest tendon in the body is referred to as the Achilles tendon. Its location lies in the back of the foot and its purpose is to connect the heel bone to the calf. Research has shown that it may become damaged or torn as a result of a sudden injury, and it’s advised to seek treatment as soon as possible. Typical symptoms of an Achilles tendon rupture may include difficulty in standing on tiptoes in addition to bruising and swelling at the point of an injury. In order to obtain a proper diagnosis, a podiatrist may use a method referred to as the Thompson’s test. This involves squeezing the calf muscles while lying face down so movement in the ankle can be observed. For severe tears, surgery may be a necessary option as a permanent solution which may prevent the tendon from re-rupturing. For less severe tears, it may be advantageous to wear a brace or a cast so healing can commence. Please consult with a podiatrist for additional information about Achilles tendon injuries.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Bruce Smit, DPM of Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor 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
Rupture Symptoms
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:
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Frankfort, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
