Items filtered by date: September 2024

Hammertoes are a painful condition where one or more of the smaller toes become bent at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. This deformity is often caused by wearing tight, ill-fitting shoes, muscle imbalances, or conditions like arthritis. Over time, hammertoes can lead to discomfort, corns, calluses, and difficulty in walking. To relieve the pain associated with hammertoes, start by choosing shoes with a roomy toe box that allows your toes to lie flat. Avoid high heels and shoes that squeeze the toes together. Adding cushioning or orthotic inserts can help to alleviate pressure on the affected toes. Gentle stretching exercises for the toes and foot muscles can also improve flexibility and reduce discomfort. If conservative treatments do not provide sufficient relief, or if the condition worsens, it is suggested that you schedule a visit to a podiatrist for more advanced treatment, which may involve surgical intervention to correct the deformity and restore proper toe alignment.

Hammertoe

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

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common infection characterized by changes in the appearance of the toenail. It often begins with discoloration, turning the nail yellow, white, or brown, and may lead to thickening, crumbling, or detachment of the nail. The fungus thrives in warm, damp environments, making it more likely to develop if feet are frequently exposed to moisture or if proper hygiene is not maintained. Risk factors include having a weakened immune system, wearing tight or non-breathable shoes, and having diabetes, which also increases susceptibility to infections. Identifying toenail fungus early is vital for effective treatment, which can include antifungal medications and improved foot care practices. If you have developed toenail fungus, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can prescribe medication for effective treatment.

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 Podiatry Services . 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 feel free to contact our office located in Murrieta, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.