Hammertoes can be recognized by a downward-bending deformity of the toes. One of the leading causes of hammertoe is a muscle imbalance that occurs when the muscles of the toes stop bending and straightening the toes. These imbalances can be caused by trauma or poorly fitting shoes that squeeze the toes, such as high heels. Common symptoms of hammertoes include pain, limited toe movement, inflammation, and trouble walking. There are a variety of treatments for hammertoes. One of the first steps for treatment is to wear comfortable shoes that give the toes plenty of space. A podiatrist will be able to further assist you in your treatment. A podiatrist will be able to suggest exercises, provide custom orthotics, and help provide pain-relief options. If you are struggling with hammertoe, please consult with a podiatrist for treatment options.
Hammertoe
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Frank Stoddard, DPM from Massillon Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor 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
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 Massillon, OH. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Sever's disease is a common ailment experienced by active kids and teenagers, particularly between the ages of 7 and 14. Sever’s disease causes pain when there is stress and inflammation where the Achilles tendon inserts into a growth plate of the heel bone. Because running and jumping causes an increase in stress to the heel bone and growth plate, children and teens who participate in soccer, gymnastics, basketball, tennis, baseball, and football are at a higher risk. If your child is complaining of pain in one or both heels that worsens with running or jumping, they may have Sever’s disease. It is highly recommended to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. A podiatrist will be able to evaluate the heel bones and take X-rays during the physical examination. If your podiatrist finds your child does have Sever’s disease, they will be able to help treat this condition and manage the pain as well.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Frank Stoddard, DPM from Massillon Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor 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 Massillon, OH. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
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Patients who are diabetic may be fearful of losing a toe or foot due to their condition. Foot complications can occur as a result of elevated blood sugar levels and can cause the feet to feel numb or minimal sensation. This may lead to the inability to feel existing cuts or bruises on the feet, and diabetic ulcers may develop. It is beneficial to implement a daily foot care routine. This can consist of washing the feet every day, properly trimming the toenails, and maintaining steady blood circulation. It is helpful to smooth corns and calluses by utilizing a pumice stone, and this can aid in preventing foot infections from developing. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper management techniques.
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 Frank Stoddard, DPM from Massillon Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor 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
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 office located in Massillon, OH. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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A common reason a broken foot may occur can be from falling off of a ladder, or it may become injured from participating in sporting events. The bones that are located between the toes and the ankle are referred to as the metatarsals. They can be prone to stress fractures, which typically happen from overuse. The average healing time for a broken foot is generally six to twelve weeks. Many daily activities are able to be completed as the healing process occurs when a walking boot or cast is worn. For more severe fractures, it may take longer if surgery is required. If you have pain in your feet as a result of either a fall or something else, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Frank Stoddard, DPM from Massillon Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor 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:
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 Massillon, OH. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.
