Hammertoe is a foot deformity in which one or more toes bend abnormally at the middle joint, creating a curled appearance. Common symptoms include toe pain, corns, calluses, redness, and difficulty wearing shoes comfortably. Risk factors include wearing tight footwear, muscle imbalance, trauma, arthritis, and a family history of foot deformities. A hammertoe may be flexible, meaning the toe can still move, or rigid, meaning the joint is stiff and fixed in place. You should be concerned if pain worsens, sores develop, or walking becomes difficult, as untreated hammertoes can lead to further complications. A podiatrist can evaluate the condition, recommend shoe modifications, custom orthotics, or advanced treatments, when needed. If toe pain is limiting your daily activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can make a proper diagnosis and offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Ankle & Foot Care Center. 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 Jupiter, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail fungus is a common condition caused by fungal organisms that thrive in warm, damp environments, such as shoes, locker rooms, and public showers. It often begins as a small discoloration and may look yellow, white, or brown, with nails becoming thick, brittle, crumbly, or distorted, over time. Some people notice an unpleasant odor or debris under the nail. Toenail fungus may feel uncomfortable, sensitive, or painful, especially when pressure is applied from footwear, although it can also be painful in early stages. A podiatrist can help from the start by examining the nails, confirming the diagnosis through testing when needed, and ruling out other nail disorders. Treatment options may include topical medications, professional nail care, and guidance on foot hygiene to prevent recurrence. Early treatment can improve nail appearance and comfort while limiting spread. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Ankle & Foot Care Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Jupiter, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Stress fractures are tiny cracks in bones that develop from repetitive force or overuse, making them a common issue among runners and athletes. They often occur in the weight-bearing bones of the foot where repeated impact can exceed the bone’s ability to repair itself. Symptoms include localized pain that worsens with activity, swelling, tenderness, and difficulty walking. Risk factors include sudden increases in training intensity, wearing improper footwear, poor running mechanics, or low bone density. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury through a physical examination and imaging tests, suggest supportive footwear or custom orthotics, and recommend activity modifications. If you enjoy running and have developed consistent foot pain, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer relief, treatment, and prevention tips for foot and ankle injuries.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Ankle & Foot Care Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Jupiter, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.