Hammertoe is a foot condition characterized by the abnormal bending of one or more toes, typically affecting the second, third, or fourth toes. This deformity often develops due to muscle imbalances, genetics, or wearing tight shoes that restrict toe movement. Over time, the affected toe bends at the middle joint, leading to discomfort. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty wearing shoes. Individuals may also notice calluses or corns forming on the top of the bent toe or on the ball of the foot due to friction. Early relief options include wearing properly fitting shoes and using orthotic inserts, but persistent symptoms or worsening deformity may require medical intervention. A podiatrist may recommend targeted exercises, custom orthotics, or, in more severe cases, surgery to realign the toe. If you are experiencing symptoms of hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a comprehensive evaluation and effective treatment options tailored to your needs.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Darlyne Cange, DPM
of Cange Podiatry, DPM, PA. 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 offices located in Glen Burnieand Ellicott City, MD. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
If you're suffering from an ankle fracture, professional attention shouldn't wait. Fractures may worsen over time and can make completing everyday activities incredibly difficult. See your podiatrist for treatment and guidance through the healing process.
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition involving inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel to the toes. It often causes sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, especially during the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest. The pain may decrease with movement but can worsen after extended activity. Causes include overuse, wearing improper footwear, obesity, or structural issues like flat feet or high arches. Athletes, runners, and those who stand for prolonged periods are at higher risk. A podiatrist diagnoses plantar fasciitis through a physical exam and may recommend imaging tests to rule out other conditions. Relief includes rest, stretching exercises and custom orthotics. In chronic cases, corticosteroid injections may be considered. Surgery is rare but may be necessary for persistent cases. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Darlyne Cange, DPM
from Cange Podiatry, DPM, PA. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
Excessive running
Non-supportive shoes
Overpronation
Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Glen Burnieand Ellicott City, MD. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
The ankle's movement and stability rely on bones, ligaments, and muscles working together. The main bones involved are the tibia, fibula, and talus. These form the ankle joint, which allows the foot to move up and down. Ligaments, like the deltoid, anterior talofibular, and calcaneofibular ligaments, help keep the ankle stable and control side-to-side movements. When we walk, the ankle flexes upwards when the heel touches the ground and pushes down as we lift the foot off. In cases of severe damage or arthritis, ankle replacement surgery may be needed, where the joint is replaced with artificial parts to restore movement. If you have ankle pain or discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can diagnose the problem and recommend treatments to help you regain proper walking function and stability.
If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Darlyne Cange, DPM
from Cange Podiatry, DPM, PA. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Biomechanics in Podiatry
Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.
A History of Biomechanics
Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.
Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.
Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Glen Burnieand Ellicott City, MD. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
