Hammertoe is a deformity that causes one or more of the smaller toes to bend downward at the middle joint instead of lying flat. At first, the toe may still be flexible, but it can become stiff if left untreated. This change in toe position places extra pressure on the top of the toe and the ball of the foot. Symptoms include pain, swelling, corns, calluses, and difficulty wearing shoes comfortably. The condition can develop because of muscle imbalance, arthritis, injury, or wearing shoes that squeeze the toes into a cramped position. Early evaluation is important because hammertoe becomes more difficult to correct as the joint becomes less flexible.

A podiatrist carefully evaluates toe alignment, foot structure, walking pattern, and joint movement to determine what is contributing to the deformity. The examination also identifies areas of excessive pressure that can lead to painful skin changes. Treatment includes custom orthotics when appropriate, footwear recommendations, and protective padding to reduce irritation. A podiatrist can also recommend exercises that improve flexibility and strengthen the muscles supporting the toes. Wearing shoes that provide proper support and enough room for the toes can reduce unnecessary pressure during daily activities. Regular follow-up visits help monitor changes and determine whether additional treatment is needed.

Ignoring hammertoe can allow the toe to become permanently stiff and increase discomfort while walking. Ongoing pressure can also lead to painful corns, calluses, and sores that make everyday activities more difficult. In advanced cases, surgery may be necessary when the toe can no longer be straightened or pain continues despite treatment. Early podiatry care helps improve foot function, reduce pressure on the affected toe, and slow the progression of the deformity. If you have symptoms of hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Health Center. Our doctors 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 office located in Dothan, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot pain from lupus is a common concern for individuals living with this chronic autoimmune condition. Lupus occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, including joints, blood vessels, and nerves in the feet. This can lead to inflammation, reduced circulation, and tissue damage. Many patients experience persistent discomfort that affects mobility and quality of life. Understanding how lupus impacts the feet is essential for early intervention and long term care. Foot pain related to lupus may also overlap with other conditions such as peripheral neuropathy or Raynaud related circulation changes.

Symptoms of foot pain from lupus often include swelling, numbness, and cold feet. Some individuals notice color changes in the toes, especially in response to cold temperatures or stress. Joint stiffness, burning sensations, and tenderness in the soles are also reported. These symptoms may come and go or worsen during lupus flares. Cold sensitivity is especially important, as reduced blood flow can increase discomfort and raise the risk of tissue injury. Paying attention to early warning signs can help prevent complications.

Several risk factors contribute to lupus-related foot pain. These include long standing autoimmune activity, poor circulation, and improper footwear. Cold environments and prolonged standing can worsen symptoms. Causes are primarily linked to inflammation of joints and blood vessels, as well as nerve irritation. Damage to small blood vessels can reduce oxygen supply to tissues, leading to cold feet and delayed healing. This makes proper foot care a critical part of managing lupus.

If you have lupus, caring for your feet involves simple, but consistent habits. Keeping feet clean and dry helps prevent infection. Wearing properly fitted, supportive shoes reduces pressure and improves alignment. Protecting feet from extreme temperatures is essential, especially in cold weather. Regular foot checks can help identify changes early. If foot pain from lupus is present, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Health Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Corns are thick, hardened areas of skin that develop when repeated pressure or friction affects a specific part of the foot. Unlike a callus, which usually covers a larger area, a corn is smaller and has a firm center that can become quite painful. Corns usually form on the tops or sides of the toes or between the toes where rubbing occurs.  Wearing shoes that are too tight, shoes that are too loose, and high heels can all increase pressure on the skin. Foot problems like hammertoes or claw toes also raise the risk because they change the way the toes press against shoes. As the skin thickens to protect itself, discomfort while walking can become harder to ignore.

A podiatrist can identify a corn with a careful examination and determine what is causing the repeated pressure. Finding the underlying cause is important because simply removing the thickened skin does not prevent the corn from returning. Treatment includes gently trimming the hardened skin in the office to relieve discomfort. A podiatrist can also evaluate toe deformities and explain whether surgery is the best option when a structural problem continues to create excessive pressure. Patients also receive guidance about choosing shoes with a roomy toe area and avoiding shoes that lack proper support. These steps help reduce pressure on sensitive areas and improve comfort with daily activities.

Ignoring a painful corn can make standing and walking more difficult while increasing irritation around the affected area. Early care helps relieve discomfort before the problem becomes more limiting. A podiatrist can recommend treatment that matches your foot structure and activity level while helping reduce repeated pressure on vulnerable areas. Prompt evaluation also helps identify related foot problems before they become more serious. If you have developed corns on the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Podiatry Health Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctors to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

A traumatic hallux fracture is a break in the big toe caused by injuries such as a heavy object falling on the foot, a forceful stub, a fall, or a sports accident. Because the big toe helps with balance and forward movement, this injury can make walking quite uncomfortable. Symptoms often include swelling, bruising, throbbing pain, stiffness, and difficulty pushing off the foot. Some injuries also cause visible deformity or marked tenderness. Evaluation helps determine whether the break is stable, displaced, or extends into the joint. Stable fractures generally remain in proper position and may heal with protection and reduced activity. Displaced fractures occur when the bone fragments have shifted out of alignment. Breaks that extend into the joint can affect movement and may need closer management to help preserve function. Treatment may include immobilization, protective footwear, activity modification, and follow-up imaging. If you have a painful big toe injury, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

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 Podiatry Health Center. 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 office located in Dothan, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.