Hammertoe is a condition where one or more of the smaller toes bends at the middle joint, causing a curled appearance that resembles a hammer. This condition often develops due to an imbalance in the tendons controlling toe movement. It may result from genetics, injury, or pressure from other foot issues such as bunions. The second toe is most commonly affected. The pain can be quite uncomfortable, especially when wearing tight shoes. In addition to pain, you may notice corns on the top of the toe and calluses on the ball of the foot due to extra pressure during walking. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, often with an X-ray to assess its severity. Treatment may involve taping or splinting the toe to reduce strain, along with custom orthotics to improve foot alignment and redistribute pressure. In more severe cases, a podiatrist may recommend surgery for relief and to restore proper foot function. If you have a painful hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Ocotillo Foot and Ankle Centers. 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 offices located in Chandler, and Phoenix, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis causes pain in the heel, arch, and bottom of the foot, often making it difficult for people to walk comfortably, especially after periods of rest. Stretching the feet, toes, and ankles can help reduce discomfort by easing pressure on the plantar fascia, a band of tissue under the foot that supports the arch. Simple stretches, such as gently pulling the toes back while seated or rolling the foot over a round object, can improve flexibility and reduce strain on the plantar fascia. These plantar fasciitis exercises are most effective when done regularly and may support healing by loosening tight muscles and promoting better foot function. Continuing the stretches even after pain recedes may help lower the risk of recurrence. Warming up before physical activity and stretching the calf muscles afterward can also improve foot mechanics. Supportive footwear plays an important role in protecting the arch during daily movement. A podiatrist can diagnose plantar fasciitis and recommend exercises as well as footwear that support recovery. If you have foot pain associated with plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Ocotillo Foot and Ankle Centers. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Stretching the feet and ankles is essential for maintaining flexibility, strength, and injury prevention in runners. Regular stretching improves mobility, reduces strain on muscles, and enhances overall performance. A simple exercise that strengthens foot muscles involves picking up small objects, such as marbles or coins, with the toes, improving grip and control. The balancing act helps with stability by standing on one foot for several seconds, gradually increasing time to enhance ankle strength and coordination. Plantar stretching targets the arch by placing one foot against a wall with toes pointing upward while gently leaning forward to stretch the sole. If you have endured a foot or ankle injury while running, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can treat various foot and ankle conditions, and recommend additional running injury prevention stretches.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Ocotillo Foot and Ankle Centers. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

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