Items filtered by date: March 2024

Hammertoe is a foot deformity where one or more toes bend abnormally at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. It often results from muscle imbalance, causing ligaments and tendons to become tight and toes to curl downward instead of lying flat. Common causes include wearing ill-fitting shoes, especially those with narrow toe boxes or high heels, which can crowd the toes and force them into unnatural positions. Additionally, genetics, trauma, and certain medical conditions, such as arthritis, can contribute to hammertoe development. Treatment options range from conservative measures to surgery, depending on the severity of the condition. Conservative approaches may involve wearing properly fitting shoes with a roomy toe box, using orthotic inserts or pads to relieve pressure, and performing toe exercises to strengthen muscles. In more severe cases, where pain persists or mobility is significantly affected, surgical correction may be recommended to realign the toes and restore normal function. If you have a hammertoe that is causing discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment that is deemed appropriate for you.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Ankle & Foot of Edmonds. 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 Edmonds, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot pain can occur for many reasons, making it tough to know exactly what is wrong without the help of a medical professional. One common cause of foot pain is a fracture, which is a break in the bones of the foot. This can cause intense pain, making it difficult to walk. Heart disease can also lead to foot problems. This condition makes it harder for blood to circulate properly, leading to swelling and pain in the feet. Diabetes is another big cause of foot pain, because high sugar levels can damage nerves in the feet, causing pain and sometimes even leading to serious infections if cuts or sores do not heal properly. Plantar fasciitis is also common, especially in people who stand for extended periods of time or wear shoes without good support. It happens when the thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot gets inflamed, causing heel pain that is usually worse in the morning. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist, who can help diagnose the source of the pain and create an effective treatment plan.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Ankle & Foot of Edmonds. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Edmonds, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Orthotics provide essential support for individuals experiencing arch pain, a common issue among athletes and others. This discomfort can arise from injury or structural problems, like high or low arches. Overpronation, where the foot excessively rolls inward, often leads to arch pain and can benefit from orthotic solutions, such as stability shoes and prescription arch supports. Plantar fasciitis, a common source of heel pain, requires arch support to alleviate pressure. Cavus foot, characterized by a high arch, demands stabilizing support to prevent pain and injuries. Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction also necessitates orthotic intervention to relieve arch discomfort. Flat feet can cause discomfort in various areas, requiring supportive shoes or inserts. Orthotics offer personalized solutions, addressing specific arch issues, enhancing comfort, and aiding recovery. If you have persistent arch pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss whether custom-made orthotics can help you to find relief.

The benefits of custom orthotics are far-reaching and can make a significant impact on your daily life. Whether you are an athlete looking to enhance your performance, a healthcare worker on your feet every day, someone who experiences chronic foot pain, or someone who wants to improve their overall comfort and well-being, custom orthotics can be a game changer. 

Custom orthotics provide support, stability, and relief for a variety of foot conditions ranging from flat feet to heel pain. They can even help prevent injuries and address more severe foot concerns, such as plantar fasciitis and diabetic foot issues. 

Contact one of our podiatrists at Ankle & Foot of Edmonds to create tailored orthotics for you and enjoy a higher quality of life, reduced pain, and increased mobility. With the right orthotics, you can continue doing the things you love, whether it’s running, dancing, or simply walking comfortably without discomfort. 

If you are suffering from foot discomfort or have concerns about your foot health, do not hesitate to contact one of our podiatrists at Ankle & Foot of Edmonds to explore the benefits of orthotics for you. Your feet are the foundation of your body and investing in their well-being can lead to a happier, healthier, and more active lifestyle. Your feet will thank you!

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Edmonds, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Persistent cracked heels, medically known as heel fissures, can move from a mere cosmetic concern to a painful and potentially serious condition if left untreated. Medical treatment is important for cracked heels that persist for more than a week. A podiatrist, or foot doctor, can remove dead skin to reduce the risk of infection and allow for deeper penetration of therapeutic agents. Podiatrists may also prescribe special creams containing urea or salicylic acid, which are more potent than over-the-counter lotions and designed to hydrate and promote healing in the deeper layers of the skin. In cases where structural issues of the foot contribute to the problem, custom orthotics may be prescribed to redistribute pressure away from the heels. Other possible treatments include bandaging the affected area or using tissue glue to mobilize cracks. If you’re suffering from cracked heels, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to find relief and prevent any complications. 

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 Ankle & Foot of Edmonds. 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 our office located in Edmonds, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

As individuals gracefully age, their feet bear the brunt of a lifetime's worth of movement, often leading to various sources of discomfort. Arthritis, a prevalent condition among the elderly, can cause inflammation in the joints, triggering persistent foot pain. The wear and tear on ligaments and tendons over time contribute to conditions like tendonitis, further exacerbating discomfort. Additionally, diminished fat padding on the soles and reduced skin elasticity can result in increased pressure on the feet, leading to pain and vulnerability to injuries. Corns, calluses, and bunions may develop due to years of friction and pressure, causing localized pain. Poor circulation, often associated with aging, can lead to cramping and pain. Understanding these common sources of foot pain in the elderly is pivotal for proactive care. Foot pain in the elderly can compromise daily activities. If this applies to you or someone you may know, it is strongly suggested that a podiatrist be consulted for an exam and treatment methods. 

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Ankle & Foot of Edmonds. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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