Hammertoe is a foot deformity where one or more toes bend abnormally at the middle joint, causing a downward curve resembling a hammer. This misalignment often affects the second, third, or fourth toes and is caused by muscle or tendon imbalances, often due to genetics, wearing poorly fitting shoes, or conditions like arthritis. The bent toe can cause pain, swelling, corns, and calluses as it rubs against footwear, making daily activities uncomfortable. A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating hammertoe. For mild cases, they may recommend conservative treatments like stretching exercises, wearing shoes with a spacious toe box, and using custom orthotics to relieve pressure. Toe splints or pads may also help realign the joint. In advanced cases, when pain persists or limits mobility, a podiatrist might suggest surgical correction to straighten the toe and restore function, offering lasting relief. If you have discomfort from a hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Hammertoe
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Foothill Podiatry Clinic. 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 Grass Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Fungal nails, or onychomycosis, is a common condition where a fungus infects the toenails, leading to discoloration, thickening, and brittleness. The primary causes include exposure to warm, moist environments, such as public showers or swimming pools, and underlying conditions like diabetes or weakened immune systems. Symptoms often start with a yellow or white spot under the nail, progressing to discoloration and potential separation from the nail bed. In some cases, the affected nail may become painful or develop a foul odor. A podiatrist can effectively diagnose and treat fungal toenails through various methods. Treatments may include topical antifungal medications, oral medications, and advanced options like laser therapy, which targets the infection without harming surrounding tissue. Laser treatments are gaining popularity for their effectiveness and minimal side effects. If you have toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for personalized care and treatment options.
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 Foothill Podiatry Clinic. 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 Grass Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, causing the toe to shift toward the others. This misalignment often results from wearing tight or narrow shoes, although genetics, arthritis, or foot structure abnormalities can also contribute. Over time, the joint at the base of the big toe becomes swollen and painful. Symptoms include discomfort, redness, swelling, and difficulty walking, especially when wearing shoes. As the condition progresses, corns or calluses may form where the toes rub together. A podiatrist typically diagnoses bunions through a physical exam and may use X-rays to assess the severity and joint damage.Treatment can involve wearing wider shoes, using padding and orthotics to relieve pressure. In more advanced cases, surgery, called a bunionectomy, may be necessary to correct the deformity. Early intervention can help manage symptoms and prevent progression. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and relief options.
Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.
Causes
Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development
Symptoms
Redness and inflammation
Pain and tenderness
Callus or corns on the bump
Restricted motion in the big toe
In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Grass Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
