Items filtered by date: February 2018

When the joints of the toes begin to bend severely, often resembling a “hammer,” this condition is referred to as hammertoe. It is typically a deformity of the toes, generally caused by imbalances in the tendons, and this may change the structure of the toe. Pain and discomfort are associated with hammertoes, and calluses and corns often form on the bottom of the foot. This condition will worsen over time, and treatment options should be considered. It’s important to trim any calluses that may be present, and this is typically performed by a podiatrist. Splints may be attached to the foot to realign the toes, and orthotics may be recommended to help the foot feel more comfortable. If you have a severe case of hammertoe, surgery may be required to permanently repair the toe.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Florida Foot & Ankle Group, P.A.. 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 one of our offices located in Debary, Lake Mary, Orlando, and Oviedo, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A large growth located on the foot at the bottom of the big toe is referred to as a bunion. It appears as an unsightly bony mass and may be caused by a predisposed inherited trait. Wearing high heels may cause the toes to remain in a cramped position for extended periods of time, and this can exacerbate an existing bunion. There are several ways to prevent this condition from occurring, including wearing shoes with a low heel or making sure a supportive feature, such as a strap, is present to prevent the foot from sliding. Additionally, it’s important to wear shoes with ample room to allow the toes to move freely. If you’re experiencing a bunion that’s causing severe pain, a consultation with a podiatrist is advised for possible treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Florida Foot & Ankle Group, P.A.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Debary, Lake Mary, Orlando, and Oviedo, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Joseph Jones was a 46 year old active runner, until a pain in his left heel was diagnosed as a bone spur causing him to go through surgery.  During his recovery however, Jones refused to stop living an active lifestyle. Before Jones’ surgery, he had to wear a boot for three weeks.  During these three weeks he performed activities such as stretching, lifting small weights, and doing sit-ups.  After his surgery, Jones continued lifting weights and doing stretching exercises taught to him by his physical therapist.  Aside from the activities Jones thought to do during his injury, other ideas you could partake in are as follows: yoga, exercising while sitting or lying down, using resistance bands, and exercising your legs. It is best to speak with your podiatrist before performing any of these exercises during an injury or before a surgical procedure.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Florida Foot & Ankle Group, P.A.. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Debary, Lake Mary, Orlando, and Oviedo, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Cracked heels are a common foot ailment, caused by cuts or fissures resulting from dry skin on or around the heel. The general symptoms of this condition may include the skin around the heel becoming hard, itchy, or flaky in texture. There are certain conditions that may cause cracked heels, including diabetes, obesity, and flat feet. Lifestyle habits, which may consist of a poor diet or wearing shoes that have an open back or improper fit, may be contributing factors in developing cracked heels. Common treatments include utilizing a moisturizer to soften the skin and staying hydrated by consuming water frequently. Please consider a consultation with a podiatrist if additional treatment is needed for severely cracked heels.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Florida Foot & Ankle Group, P.A.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Debary, Lake Mary, Orlando, and Oviedo, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.