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Hammertoe occurs when an imbalance in the muscles and tendons causes a toe to develop an abnormal bend. The middle joint is commonly affected, giving the toe its characteristic appearance. Hammertoe can be flexible in its early stages or rigid as the deformity progresses. A flexible toe can still move into a straighter position. A rigid toe remains fixed and may become increasingly uncomfortable.

Hammertoe symptoms often become more noticeable when walking or wearing shoes. Pain may develop in the affected toe or at the toe joint where it meets the foot. The bent joint may rub against footwear and develop a corn or callus. Some people experience swelling, redness, or tenderness after spending time on their feet. Wearing shoes that do not fit properly can make these symptoms worse. High heels may also crowd the toes and increase pressure.

Your natural foot structure can also affect your risk. People with high arches may place greater pressure on the front of the foot. Flat feet can alter normal walking mechanics and contribute to uneven pressure. Other risk factors include family history, aging, and footwear that squeezes the toes. Recognizing these factors early may help reduce ongoing irritation and protect comfortable movement.

A podiatrist can evaluate the toe and determine whether the deformity is flexible or rigid. The examination may include checking your walking pattern and joint movement. Treatment can involve changing footwear, using protective padding, or prescribing custom orthotics. Severe or rigid deformities may require surgery when conservative care does not provide adequate relief. If you have a painful toe or one that is bent, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief, treatment, and management solutions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact John Killough, DPM from Regional Foot Center. Our doctor 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Charleston, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Achilles tendinitis develops when the large tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel becomes irritated and inflamed. This tendon plays an important role when walking, running, and jumping, so repeated stress can lead to pain. Achilles tendinitis usually develops from overuse rather than one sudden injury. Increasing exercise intensity too quickly can place extra strain on the tendon. Changes in footwear and tight calf muscles may also contribute. The condition is especially common among runners, although it can affect people with different activity levels. Pain may occur within the tendon or where it attaches to the heel bone.

Symptoms of Achilles tendinitis can gradually interfere with comfortable movement. Pain and stiffness may develop along the tendon, especially in the morning. Discomfort at the back of the heel often becomes worse with physical activity. The tendon may also become swollen or thickened over time. There are two main types of Achilles tendinitis. Noninsertional tendinitis affects the middle portion of the tendon and is more common among younger, active people. Insertional tendinitis affects the lower portion where the Achilles tendon connects to the heel. Bone spurs can sometimes develop with this form of the condition.

A podiatrist can examine persistent Achilles tendon pain and determine the location and severity of the problem. The evaluation may include checking for swelling, tenderness, and limited ankle movement. X-rays can reveal bone spurs or calcium deposits, while other imaging may be useful in certain cases. Professional treatment depends on the type and severity of Achilles tendinitis. Options can include physical therapy, supportive footwear, or orthotic devices. More severe cases that do not improve with nonsurgical care may require surgery. Because Achilles tendon problems can take months to improve, receiving an accurate diagnosis can help guide appropriate care. If pain or stiffness continues along the Achilles tendon or heel, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact John Killough, DPM of Regional Foot Center. Our doctor 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 offices located in Charleston, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Some diseases that affect the entire body can also produce noticeable problems in the feet. Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is one example. PAD develops when atherosclerosis causes arteries in the legs to become narrowed. Atherosclerosis is the buildup of fatty material called plaque inside artery walls. As the arteries narrow, less blood can reach the lower legs and feet. Some people with PAD have no noticeable symptoms, while others experience discomfort when walking. Because the feet are far from the heart, circulation problems can become especially noticeable in this area of the body.

Foot-related signs of peripheral artery disease can become more serious as blood flow decreases. The feet may feel cool, while the skin can become thin or pale. Hair loss may also occur on the lower legs and feet. Some people develop aching or burning pain even while resting. More advanced PAD can lead to painful sores on the toes or heels that may have difficulty healing. Severe loss of circulation can eventually damage tissue. PAD is considered a systemic disorder because atherosclerosis may affect arteries elsewhere in the body as well. Diabetes, high blood pressure, and increasing age are among the factors associated with greater PAD risk.

A podiatrist can play an important role in recognizing changes in the feet that may indicate poor circulation. A foot examination can identify skin changes, sores, or abnormal pulses that may require further medical evaluation. Testing may also be needed to determine how well blood is reaching the lower extremities. Because reduced circulation can interfere with healing, professional foot care is particularly important when wounds or other skin problems develop. A podiatrist can provide appropriate foot care while coordinating with other medical professionals when necessary. If you notice persistent foot pain, skin changes, or slow-healing sores, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact John Killough, DPM from Regional Foot Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Charleston, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A broken toe is a fracture in one of the small bones of the toe. It can happen after a direct injury, such as stubbing your toe against furniture or dropping something heavy on your foot. A toe fracture can also develop from repetitive stress that gradually cracks the bone. Symptoms may include severe pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Some fractures cause the toe to look crooked or change shape. Even when the injury seems minor, a broken toe should be evaluated because untreated fractures can heal improperly and affect normal movement.

Several factors can increase the risk of a broken toe. Athletes may be more vulnerable because running and jumping place repeated stress on the feet. People with weak bones may also have a higher fracture risk. Repetitive stress fractures can occur when activity increases too quickly or the foot does not have enough time to recover. Recognizing these risks can help you respond sooner when toe pain develops.

A podiatrist will begin by examining the injured toe and asking how the injury occurred. An X-ray may be used to confirm a fracture and determine its location. A stable fracture may be treated with buddy taping, supportive footwear, and reduced activity. A more serious fracture may require realignment or additional treatment. A podiatrist will monitor healing and provide guidance about protecting the toe while the bone repairs itself. Following these recommendations can reduce complications and support a safe return to normal activity.

Do not ignore severe toe pain, swelling, or difficulty walking after an injury. Prompt care can help identify the problem and prevent improper healing. If repetitive stress is causing discomfort, early evaluation may also help prevent a small crack from becoming a larger fracture. If you have broken a toe, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition. 

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 John Killough, DPM from Regional Foot Center. Our doctor 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 Charleston, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.