Hammertoe is a foot deformity where one or more of the smaller toes bend abnormally at the middle joint, resembling a hammer shape. It is commonly caused by muscle imbalance, wearing ill-fitting shoes, arthritis, or injury. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, swelling, corns, or difficulty in moving the toe. Risk factors include aging, wearing high heels, having a second toe longer than the big toe, or a family history of foot deformities. A chiropodist can evaluate the condition and recommend treatment, such as custom orthotics, footwear changes, exercises, or minor procedures, if necessary. If you are noticing discomfort or changes in your toe shape, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist who can accurately diagnose hammertoes.

Hammertoe is a common foot deformity in which one or more of the small toes bends downwards at the middle joint. Though it may seem like a purely cosmetic issue, this is not the case. Hammertoes can be uncomfortable, painful, and even debilitating in severe cases. If you suffer from hammertoe, please consult with one of the chiropodists from Complete Family Footcare & Therapy. Our clinicians can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility.

Symptoms

• One or more small toes bending downward at the middle joint

• Pain or irritation on the affected toes

• Corns and calluses

• Inflammation

• Redness

• Stiff toe joints

• Sores on the tops of the toes

Diagnosis

A chiropodist can typically diagnose hammertoes through physical examination. X-rays may need to be taken to see the extent of the damage.

Treatment

Hammertoes tend to progressively worsen with time, so getting prompt treatment is very important. In its early stages, the progression of hammertoe can be slowed down or stopped. Your chiropodist may suggest changes in your footwear. Wearing wide, comfortable shoes with a larger toe area and a low heel can help you avoid putting pressure on your toes. You may also be prescribed orthotics. Over-the-counter medications or corticosteroid injections may be used to relieve pain. If you have any corns or calluses, your chiropodist may suggest padding them to avoid further irritation. In advanced cases, surgery may be suggested. 

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

Dry cracked heels often result from a buildup of hard, dry skin that becomes less flexible and eventually splits under pressure. This condition, also known as heel fissures, can be caused by a range of factors including prolonged standing, obesity, aging, wearing open-heeled footwear, or exposure to cold weather. Certain health conditions such as diabetes, eczema, and thyroid issues can also contribute to dryness and skin thickening. Mild cases may be managed at home with regular exfoliation using a pumice stone and the use of thick moisturizers. Keeping feet moisturized and protected with well-fitting, closed-back shoes and soft socks can help retain hydration. Severe or painful cases may require treatment by a chiropodist to safely remove hardened skin and prescribe more effective topical treatments. If heel cracks persist or worsen, it is suggested that you see a chiropodist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, can cause pain and discomfort. If your cracked heels are bothering you, please consult with one of the chiropodists from Complete Family Footcare & Therapy. Our clinicians will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Dry, thickened skin around the rim of the heel is typically the first sign of cracked heels. While this condition is common and usually just a nuisance, some cases can be more severe. If left untreated and as more pressure is placed on the heel, the cracks become deeper and eventually walking and standing can be painful. These deep cracks or fissures can bleed and also become infected. Those with diabetes need to be especially careful as fissures could lead to diabetic foot ulcers. 

Causes

Cracked heels can be the result of several different factors, including: 

• Dry skin

• Taking long, hot showers or using harsh soaps

• Standing for long periods of time

• Walking barefoot

• Walking in shoes with an open back, such as sandals or flip flops

• Wearing shoes that do not fit properly

• Living in a cold or dry climate 

• Certain skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis

Treatment

There are many at-home treatment remedies for cracked heels. Applying moisturizers to the heel can help hydrate the skin. Soaking your feet in warm water and exfoliating them with a loofah or pumice stone can help to buff away dead skin cells. If you are afflicted with cracked heels, it is recommended that you see a chiropodist for treatment. 

Prevention

You can prevent cracked heels by:

• Avoiding standing in one position for prolonged periods of time

• Wearing well-fitted shoes with a closed back

• Washing your feet with gentle soaps and lukewarm water

• Moisturizing the feet daily

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

Corns and calluses are thick, hard patches of skin that form to protect the feet from pressure or rubbing. Calluses usually appear on the bottoms of the feet, especially the heels and balls of the feet, and tend to be larger and more spread out. Corns are smaller, often found on or between the toes, and may feel sore because they can press into the deeper layers of the skin. Wearing tight or poorly fitting shoes is a common cause. Walking barefoot often or standing for long hours can also lead to these rough spots. To help manage them, choose shoes that fit well and cushion your feet. If corns or calluses become painful or keep coming back, it is suggested that you see a chiropodist for advanced treatment.

Corns are small bumps or dry, hardened skin that can arise on the feet, usually in response to friction. Corns can be asymptomatic, or they can be uncomfortable or painful. If you have corns that are bothering you, please consult with one of the chiropodists from Complete Family Footcare & Therapy. Our clinicians can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

There are three types of corns:

• Hard corns

  • Often occur on the tops of toes

  • Feature a hard core surrounded by dry, irritated skin

  • Can be painful

• Soft corns 

  • Often occur in between the toes

  • Soft due to constant exposure to sweat

  • Can be painful 

• Seed corns

  • Tiny

  • Often occur on the soles of the feet

  • Usually asymptomatic

Corns can be prevented by wearing shoes that fit properly. They are typically benign and don’t require medical treatment. However, if your corns are causing you pain or discomfort, don’t hesitate to reach out to a chiropodist near you for treatment options. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.