Items filtered by date: May 2024

Hammertoes are a deformity where the toe bends at the middle joint, causing the tip to curl downward, resembling a hammer. This condition can affect any of the smaller toes and is categorized into flexible hammertoes, which are still movable at the joint. Rigid hammertoes are defined as tight tendons causing the joint to become misaligned and immobile. Hammertoes develop over time, often due to wearing ill-fitting shoes that squeeze the toes or cause them to bend. High heels or narrow shoes are common culprits. Genetics, certain diseases like arthritis, and trauma can also contribute to their formation. People with unusually long toes, flat feet, or high arches are more susceptible. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, and in some cases, X-rays to assess the extent of the deformity. Treatment options range from changes in footwear and custom orthotic devices to surgery in severe cases. If you have a hammertoe that is causing you discomfort, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment options.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Ankle and Foot Centers of Missouri, P.C.. 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 the Greater Kansas City area . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete's foot, a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, is especially common among people who frequent damp, warm areas where the fungus thrives. These often include public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. The infection spreads easily through direct contact with contaminated surfaces. Wearing tight-fitting, closed-toe shoes can increase the risk, as the warm, moist environment is ideal for fungal growth. People who sweat excessively may be more prone to the infection due to increased moisture levels. Sharing towels, shoes, or socks with someone who has athlete's foot can also transmit the fungus. To reduce the risk of contracting athlete's foot, wearing moisture-wicking socks, using antifungal powders or sprays, and maintaining dry feet are often suggested. Regular foot hygiene and avoiding direct contact with potentially contaminated surfaces are also key preventive measures. If you suspect you have athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and care.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Ankle and Foot Centers of Missouri, P.C..  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in the Greater Kansas City area . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Broken toes, or toe fractures, typically occur when the toe experiences a sudden impact or pressure. This may be due to a heavy object falling on it or stubbing it against a hard surface, like furniture or steps. Symptoms of a broken toe include pain, swelling, and discoloration of the toenail because of trapped blood underneath. Fractures of the big toe potentially cause more intense pain, increased swelling, and bruising, which affects mobility. Diagnosis of a fractured toe is usually made through a physical examination by a podiatrist, often without the need for X-rays. Treatment may involve buddy taping, which is securing the injured toe to the adjacent one for support. Draining trapped blood under the toenail to help alleviate discomfort. A podiatrist also may prescribe wearing comfortable footwear or a protective boot to aid healing. In more serious cases, surgery may be required to correct the injury. For an exam, personalized guidance, and proper treatment of a broken toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Ankle and Foot Centers of Missouri, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in the Greater Kansas City area . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Running injuries can affect runners of all levels, from beginners to seasoned athletes. Achilles pain, characterized by discomfort and swelling at the back of the ankle or heel, is a common ailment resulting from the repetitive strain of running. Heel pain, often associated with plantar fasciitis, can feel like a sharp sensation when pressure is applied to the heel or bottom of the foot. To prevent such running injuries, it's important to take proactive measures. First and foremost, wearing the right shoes is essential, but remember, expensive doesn't always mean better. Additionally, warming up properly before a run with brisk walking or gentle jogging for five to 10 minutes can prepare muscles and reduce the risk of injury. Similarly, cooling down post-run with easy-paced jogging or walking helps muscle recovery. Last, avoid the temptation to increase running intensity or distance too rapidly. Build up your running regimen gradually by increasing distance and duration a week at a time. By utilizing these methods, runners can minimize the likelihood of common running injuries. If foot or ankle pain from running persists or worsens, it is suggested that you seek help from a podiatrist.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Ankle and Foot Centers of Missouri, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in the Greater Kansas City area . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.