Items filtered by date: January 2024

Hammertoe, a common foot deformity characterized by an abnormal bending of one or more toes at the middle joint, can develop due to various factors. First, genetics can play a significant role, as individuals with an inherited foot structure that predisposes them to hammertoes may be more susceptible. The choice of footwear is another critical factor, as tight, narrow, or ill-fitting shoes can force the toes into unnatural positions, subjecting the toe joints to excessive pressure. High-heeled shoes, in particular, can push the toes forward into a bent position, contributing to hammertoe development. Additionally, a toe length discrepancy, where one toe is longer than the others, can increase the risk, especially if it consistently rubs against the inside of the shoe. Conditions like arthritis can also lead to joint inflammation and deformities, including hammertoes. Past toe injuries or trauma can disrupt toe joint alignment, and muscle imbalances affecting toe movement can also play a role. If you have developed a hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for early intervention and treatment to help manage the condition and prevent it from worsening.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Podiatry Services . 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 Murrieta, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken foot, resulting from various causes such as sports injuries, falls, or accidents, can significantly impact your daily life. With 26 delicate bones in each foot, fractures are common and can lead to changes in physical appearance and movement. Symptoms of a broken foot include sudden or gradual pain, difficulty in bearing weight, swelling, bruising, altered gait pattern, and poor balance. Long-term treatment is needed for effective recovery. It typically involves the use of protective casts, boots, or supportive footwear to shield the foot during the healing process. The healing process for bones usually spans six to eight weeks, though the duration may extend based on the severity of your fracture. Beyond immediate care, rehabilitation exercises play an important role in restoring range of motion, mobility, strength, and balance. Because neglecting proper treatment can result in complications, it is imperative to prioritize comprehensive and sustained care for a broken foot. By adhering to these measures, individuals can optimize the healing process, minimize risks, and regain full functionality, ensuring a smoother road to recovery. If you have broken your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible for an exam and appropriate treatment methods,

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Services . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

Gout, an inflammatory arthritis, is a condition characterized by sudden, intense pain, redness, and swelling in the joints, most commonly affecting the big toe. The root cause of gout lies in the accumulation of urate crystals in the affected joints, leading to excruciating bouts of pain. Urate crystals form when the body produces excessive uric acid or fails to eliminate it efficiently. High levels of uric acid can result from dietary factors, particularly the consumption of purine-rich foods, like red meat, seafood, and alcohol. A genetic predisposition and certain medical conditions, such as kidney dysfunction, contribute to the likelihood of developing gout. Obesity and dehydration also play roles in exacerbating the condition. Understanding the definition and causes of gout is critical for individuals, enabling them to make informed lifestyle choices and dietary adjustments to manage and prevent the recurrent pain associated with this arthritic condition. If you have developed gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage this condition. 

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Services . 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 office located in Murrieta, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel spurs, which are bony growths on the underside of the heel, can cause significant pain and discomfort. They often occur along with plantar fasciitis, a condition characterized by inflammation in the bottom of the foot, particularly in the heel area. To alleviate this discomfort, various treatments and remedies from a podiatrist are available. Cold therapy can help reduce inflammation in the heel tissue. This may be achieved by using a cold compression pack or rolling the foot over a frozen water bottle. Wearing comfortable and well-fitting shoes is essential to reduce pressure on the heel spur. Wearing custom orthotics, prescribed by a podiatrist, can also provide extra heel support. Taking anti-inflammatory medications can help alleviate heel pain and reduce tissue inflammation. Stretching exercises for the calf, surrounding muscles, and the plantar fascia can ease strain and pressure on the heel spur. If you have a heel spur that is causing you persistent pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment methods.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Services . Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Murrieta, CA . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Sever's disease, a common but often misunderstood condition, is not truly a disease, but rather a growth-related heel pain that affects active children and adolescents. This condition, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, occurs when the growth plate at the back of the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress and tension. Children between the ages of 8 and 15 are most susceptible to Sever's disease, as this is typically when their bones are rapidly growing. This growth spurt places extra stress on the heel's growth plate, especially in active children who participate in sports or activities that involve running and jumping. The hallmark symptom of Sever's disease is heel pain, often exacerbated by physical activity. This pain can be particularly bothersome during or after exercise. Understanding Sever's disease is essential for parents and young athletes, as it enables early recognition and appropriate management. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat Sever’s disease.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Services . Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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