Items filtered by date: December 2023

Choosing how to treat a hammertoe, which is a foot deformity, depends on whether the toe can still move and is flexible, or is stiff and fixed. The severity of the deformity also plays a role in deciding whether to opt for surgery. Surgery is considered when there is disabling pain that does not improve with non-surgical options, like taping for a flexible hammertoe, or wearing special shoes for a fixed hammertoe. For flexible hammertoes, soft-tissue procedures are used, while rigid ones might need surgery involving the bones. Different surgical techniques are employed based on whether the deformity is flexible, fixed, or involves a rotated toe. In some cases, shortening the metatarsal bone, which is part of the middle foot, is necessary. If you have a hammertoe that is causing pain and discomfort, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an examination and discussion of treatment options that may benefit you.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Michael T. Hames from Florence Foot Center. Our doctor 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 Florence, Alabama. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your podiatric needs.

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Pregnancy, with its myriad changes, often brings about discomfort, and foot pain is a common concern for many expectant mothers. Fortunately, several strategies can help alleviate this discomfort. Opting for comfortable, supportive footwear is vital, as the body undergoes weight changes that can impact foot structure. Regularly elevating the feet, especially after extended periods of standing, can help to reduce swelling and promote better circulation. Gentle stretching exercises, such as ankle circles and toe flexes, can offer relief and maintain flexibility. Adequate hydration is essential to prevent water retention, a common contributor to foot swelling. Cold compresses or foot massages may provide soothing relief while maintaining a healthy weight. Engaging in low-impact exercises, like swimming, can alleviate pressure on the feet. Regular prenatal checkups ensure any underlying conditions that contribute to foot pain are addressed promptly. If you are experiencing foot pain during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief techniques.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Michael T. Hames from Florence Foot Center. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Florence, Alabama. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your podiatric needs.

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Foot neuropathy, characterized by nerve damage in the feet, can be influenced by various risk factors. Diabetes stands as a primary risk factor, as prolonged high blood sugar levels can lead to nerve damage, causing sensory disturbances in the feet. Alcohol abuse is another significant factor, as excessive alcohol consumption can harm nerves and contribute to neuropathy in the feet. Vitamin deficiencies, particularly B vitamins, may also increase the risk of foot neuropathy. Certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs and those used to treat HIV, can have neuropathy as a side effect. Physical trauma, repetitive stress, or injuries to the feet can damage nerves and lead to neuropathy. Autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus may trigger autoimmune responses that damage nerves in the feet. Hereditary factors, including a family history of neuropathy, could elevate the risk. Awareness of these diverse risk factors is vital for early detection and prevention of foot neuropathy. If you suffer from this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an examination and appropriate treatment.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Dr. Michael T. Hames from Florence Foot Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Florence, Alabama. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your podiatric needs.

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Morton’s neuroma is a painful and often underestimated condition that affects the ball of the foot, specifically targeting the web space between the third and fourth toes. More prevalent in middle-aged women, this condition can be debilitating, impacting one's daily activities. The discomfort of Morton’s neuroma may start as a subtle ache after walking, standing, or engaging in impact activities, but eventually, it becomes more consistent and intense. Morton’s neuroma primarily targets the interdigital nerve, leading to swelling and thickening of the fibrous tissue surrounding the nerve. This compression can result in numbness or a pins and needles sensation in the forefoot. As it progresses, the pain may extend beyond the web space and radiate into the metatarsals. Patients often describe feeling as if there is a pebble or stone in their shoe. This unique sensation is a result of increased swelling and fibrotic thickening around the neuroma, causing an enlargement of the affected area. If you suspect you are experiencing symptoms of Morton's neuroma, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation and a personalized treatment plan.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Michael T. Hames from Florence Foot Center. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Florence, Alabama. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your podiatric needs.

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