September 2019

There are noticeable signs you may have a hammertoe. These can include the second toe bending in a downward direction, often resembling a hammer. Additionally, it may bend over the third toe, and it may be difficult to walk. This condition may be caused by genetic traits, or can come from wearing shoes that do not have enough room for the toes to move freely in. It is considered to be a deformity of the bones in the toes, and in severe cases, surgery may be required to permanently straighten the toes. In the beginning stages of hammertoe, mild relief may be found when larger shoes are worn that can accommodate the bent toes. Some patients find it beneficial to wear pads on the top of the affected toes, and this may help to prevent corns from developing. If you are afflicted with hammertoe, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition. 

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Parkview Podiatry. 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 Lakeport, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The importance of properly taking care of your child’s feet is crucial in possibly preventing certain foot conditions from developing. Children’s feet may be sweaty for the majority of the day, and it is important to wash and dry them on a daily basis. This may prevent athlete’s foot from occurring. Research has indicated that children's feet may become stronger when they can walk barefoot while indoors. This can be a result of the grasping motion that occurs when the toes touch the floor. Ingrown toenails may be prevented when the toenails are cut frequently and in a straight line. Additionally, when it is time for your child to walk outside, it is helpful to purchase shoes that fit properly. This can be accomplished by measuring your child’s foot to determine the correct shoe size. If you would like more information about how to take care of your child’s feet, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Parkview Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

Your feet are covered a good part of the day. If you are diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often another sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

Patients who are overweight may notice they frequently experience foot pain. This can be a result of the added weight the feet must endure on a daily basis. Additionally, there are uncomfortable foot conditions that may develop which can include plantar fasciitis, arthritis, and tendinitis. These can compromise the ability to complete daily activities. Obese patients may have flat feet, and this may produce considerable pain and discomfort. Other medical conditions that can develop from being overweight are gout, diabetes, and circulation ailments. If you have questions about how obesity can affect the feet, it is strongly advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist.

The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Parkview Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.

Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity

• When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
• Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
• Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.

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

Patients who have experienced an Achilles tendon injury are familiar with the pain and discomfort that is often associated with it. This tendon connects the heel to the calf muscles, and is considered to be the largest tendon in the body. If it should become inflamed as a result of an injury, Achilles tendonitis may develop. Additionally, it may gradually develop from overuse, and symptoms can consist of pain in the heel area or down the back of the leg. It may feel worse in the morning upon arising, and it will most likely be difficult to flex the foot. Common reasons for this type of injury to occur can include suddenly increasing the intensity of a sporting activity, improper stretching before exercising, or it may come from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. After a proper diagnosis is performed, the correct treatment can begin which can include a variety of options. If you are afflicted with this condition, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the proper treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Parkview Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lakeport, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

There is a portion of tissue that is located on the bottom of the foot. It is known as the plantar fascia, and it connects the heel to the toes. If an injury occurs, this band of tissue may become inflamed, and a condition that is referred to as plantar fasciitis may develop. The pain and discomfort that is associated with this ailment is often felt in the heel and surrounding areas. Many patients experience severe pain in the morning upon arising, and the heel may be swollen and stiff. This condition can happen as a result of standing for extended periods of time throughout the day, rapidly gaining weight, or wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Moderate relief can be felt when the foot is resting, and it may be beneficial to practice specific stretching techniques that can help to strengthen the plantar fascia. If you are afflicted with plantar fasciitis, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

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 Parkview Podiatry. 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 office located in Lakeport, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.