Items filtered by date: November 2017

Monday, 27 November 2017 00:00

Everything to Know About Hammertoe

Weakened muscles in the foot and toes may make the development of a condition known as hammertoe more likely. Possible causes for hammertoe may include arthritis, ill-fitting shoes, or genetic conditions. Hammertoe usually occurs in the second or third toe, but can affect any toe on the foot. Symptoms include having a toe that bends in an improper position, usually downward. In some cases, hammertoe may cause blisters and calluses, which can result in further pain from walking. Inability to flex your feet or difficulty in moving your toes may also be a result of this condition. Wearing proper footwear and avoiding shoes like high heels can help prevent hammertoe. If you do decide to wear heels, choose a pair with a lower heel. It is advised to consult with a podiatrist if you are suffering from hammertoe.

Hammertoe

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 -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 Florence, Alabama . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot need.

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Monday, 20 November 2017 00:00

Symptoms of Gout

If you experience sudden attacks of swelling and severe pain, you may have gout. Gout is a form of arthritis in which small crystals form around the joints and may lead to kidney stones. A buildup of uric acid in the blood leads to inflammation and is the cause of gout. Gout typically affects the toes and , in addition to the knees and fingers.The joints become swollen, and the skin in the affected area may appear red and shiny. Gout occurs in attacks and can be debilitating and extremely painful. Lowering uric acids levels may provide a long-term solution, which is commonly done through change of diet and medication. Ice packs are generally used during an attack for relief. Please consult a podiatrist if you have difficulty walking or have severe pain in your feet.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Michael T. Hames from Florence Foot Center. Our doctor will treat your foot need.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

Read more about Everything You Need to Know About Gout

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