Hammertoes are a deformity where one or more smaller toes bend downward at the middle joint, creating a hammer-like appearance. This condition often results from an imbalance in the muscles and tendons that control toe movement, which can cause the toes to curl and become rigid. Common causes include wearing poorly fitting shoes that squeeze the toes or having a high foot arch that contributes to muscle imbalance. Risk factors also include genetic predisposition, conditions such as arthritis, and prolonged periods of standing or walking. Addressing hammertoes typically involves wearing well-fitting, supportive footwear, using orthotic devices, and performing exercises to stretch and strengthen the toes. In severe cases, surgery may be needed. If you notice signs of a hammertoe developing, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment strategies.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry, PC. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Running is a popular form of exercise that can lead to various foot and ankle injuries. Ankle sprains are common and occur when ligaments are stretched or torn due to sudden twists or turns. Achilles tendinopathy, characterized by pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon, often results from overuse or improper training techniques. Additionally, plantar fasciitis causes pain in the heel and underside of the foot, typically due to inflammation of the plantar fascia from repetitive strain. These injuries can sideline runners, affect their performance, and require proper management for recovery. Prevention strategies include adequate warm-ups, gradual increases in training intensity, and wearing supportive footwear. If you have encountered a foot or ankle injury while running it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat your condition.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from Associates in Podiatry, PC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle replacement surgery, or ankle arthroplasty, is a surgical option for those with severe ankle joint damage, often resulting from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or significant fractures. This procedure involves replacing the damaged bones in the ankle joint with prosthetics, to restore function and reduce pain. Ankle replacement surgery includes making an incision to access the joint, repositioning blood vessels, nerves, and tendons, and then removing and reshaping the damaged bones to fit the artificial joint. Full recovery may take as long as six months. It begins by keeping the leg elevated and possibly remaining in the hospital for up to a week, as the healing process begins. Though the prognosis is generally positive, with many ankle replacements lasting over a decade, potential risks can include infection, blood clots, nerve damage, and prosthetic failure. If you have severe ankle problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to find out if ankle replacement is an option for you.

In certain cases, in which the patient suffers from extreme pain or damage in a joint, joint replacement surgery may be deemed useful. If you have constant pain in a foot joint, consult with one of our podiatrists from Associates in Podiatry, PC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Joint Replacement Surgery?

Over time, joints wear down; this can be exacerbated by diseases and conditions. Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is when a damaged joint is surgically removed and replaced with a prosthesis. Prostheses, which can be made of ceramic, plastic, or metal, act as joints in lieu of an actual joint. One of the most prevalent causes for joint replacement is arthritis.

Arthritis in the Foot

Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body, including in the feet. Common types of arthritis in the foot are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The big toe is usually where arthritis occurs in the foot; this is known as hallux rigidus.

Joint Replacement Surgery in the Foot

The most common form of joint replacement in the foot is a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint placement. MTP joint replacement surgery is designed to treat hallux rigidus. Surgery is not intensive, and recovery occurs within one to two months after the procedure has been done. Overall, joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective way to treat pain in the joint of the foot.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.