Items filtered by date: April 2021

Hammertoe is a foot condition that is considered to be a deformity. It can cause the toes to curl and remain in a downward position. This condition often develops because of genetic factors, or from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. A muscle imbalance is often responsible for the abnormal position of the toes and can gradually worsen. Patients have found mild relief when orthotics or shoe inserts are worn, and it may help to prevent this ailment when shoes that are worn fit correctly. If you have developed hammertoe, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can offer you correct treatment techniques. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to permanently straighten the toes. 

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Ali Davis, DPM of The Foot Clinic. 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 office located in Overland Park, KS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) causes painful inflammation of joints throughout your body, including the feet. Symptoms of RA in the feet can include an isolated warmth in certain areas of the foot, sore, achy feet, and swelling, pain, or stiffness in the foot joints. RA can eventually lead to deterioration of joint tissue, cartilage and bones, known as joint destruction. This is a very painful condition, which can make it difficult to walk and may even lead to foot deformity. RA symptoms typically present in adults from 30-60 years of age, and can vary from intense flare-ups (which can increase with age) to periods of remission. While there is no cure for RA, a podiatrist can offer various therapies, treatments, medications, or possibly surgery that may relieve pain and even lessen the severity and frequency of flare-ups.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Ali Davis, DPM from The Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

Women who wear high heels and are in their 30s and 40s are most at risk of developing Morton’s neuroma: a thickening of nerve tissues between bones on the bottom of the toes. This can cause a burning pain in the ball of the foot that graduates to a numbness or intense pins-and-needles feeling between the 3rd and 4th toes. Typical treatment for those with Morton’s neuroma calls for a change in footwear, either OTC or prescription painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications. If the condition persists for more than a year, a possible surgical solution to remove the damaged nerve or an endoscopic decompression to fix the nerve may become necessary. To learn more about treatment for Morton’s neuroma, please consult with a podiatrist.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Ali Davis, DPM of The Foot Clinic. 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 office located in Overland Park, KS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Wearing the right shoe size can help protect your feet from a variety of foot related issues and injuries. Shoes should cushion and support the foot, feel comfortable, and fit properly. There are some important tips to remember to achieve the perfect fit. If you are participating in physical activities, it is important to purchase shoes that are made and designed for your type of activity, such as walking shoes, running shoes, or even hiking boots. Because our feet are at their largest towards the end of the day, it is suggested to have them measured in the afternoon or evening. Ask a sales person for help to ensure you use the brannock device correctly. Make sure the toes can be wiggled while wearing the shoes and it is also suggested to wear the socks you intend to wear with the shoes. Additionally, make sure the shoes are comfortable when walking around the store, and avoid shoes that are made with plastic or have a narrow toe box. If you have questions or need help making sure your shoes fit properly, please seek the advice of a podiatrist.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Ali Davis, DPM from The Foot Clinic. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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