Hammertoe, a podiatric condition characterized by an abnormal bending of the toes, primarily affects the second, third, or fourth toe joints, causing them to resemble a hammer. This deformity is often a result of an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that hold the toe straight. One common cause is wearing shoes that force the toes into a bent position, hindering the natural alignment. Individuals with a second toe longer than the big toe, flat feet, or a family history of hammertoe are more prone to developing this condition. Women, particularly those who frequently wear high heels or narrow shoes, face an increased risk. Additionally, individuals with arthritis or conditions causing muscle and ligament imbalances may find themselves susceptible to hammertoe. If you have developed hammertoe, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer treatment options for this condition.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM of Elite Foot & Ankle. 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 Carrollton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

With age, the body undergoes various changes, and your feet are no exception. Senior adults often experience common foot ailments that can affect their mobility and overall well-being. Some prevalent foot ailments that seniors may encounter include plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the ligament that runs from the heel to the ball of the foot. It causes pain in both areas and is sometimes associated with heel spurs. Bunions, also known as hallux valgus, involve a painful bony buildup on the big toe joint, often causing the big toe to bend toward the smaller toes. Heredity plays a role, and years of wearing narrow or high-heeled shoes can make it worse. Morton's neuroma, a painful condition, is caused by a swollen, inflamed nerve. It typically affects the ball of the foot between the third and fourth toes and can feel like having a small rock in the shoe. It is more prevalent in women who have worn high heels or narrow shoes. Additionally, aging can lead to a reduction in the natural padding under the feet, making it essential for seniors to choose footwear with adequate cushioning. Regular foot care, appropriate footwear, and professional guidance from a podiatrist can significantly enhance foot health. If you are a senior, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist if you need help with any type of foot pain.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM from Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

Foot and ankle problems are prevalent medical issues, particularly among the elderly, who often suffer from pain, stiffness, swelling, or deformities. Common diagnoses include conditions such as corns, athlete's foot, bunions, flat feet, ingrown nails, and warts. Aging-related muscle mass and loss of bone strength may increase seniors' risk for injuries and fractures, compounded by balance and vision issues. Key foot and ankle injuries in the elderly include ankle sprains, where the ligaments are overstretched or torn, potentially weakening the ankle and leading to arthritis, if untreated. Achilles tendonitis and tears are also common. The Achilles is vulnerable to inflammation and overuse, which can escalate to tears or ruptures, especially with sudden trauma. Ankle fractures are serious injuries from traumatic impact, requiring immediate podiatric attention to prevent complications such as infections. The spectrum of foot and ankle injuries in the elderly ranges from minor, treatable conditions to severe injuries necessitating medical intervention, highlighting the need for attentive care to prevent these issues. If you are elderly and have foot or ankle problems, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Kellvan Cheng, DPM from Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Carrollton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Pain on the bottom of the foot, particularly in the heel area, may be caused by plantar fasciosis, a condition often mistaken for plantar fasciitis. Unlike the latter, plantar fasciosis is characterized by repetitive stress on the plantar fascia rather than inflammation. Plantar fasciosis can develop due to a sedentary lifestyle, wearing high-heeled shoes, or having abnormal foot arches. Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendons also may contribute, and for that reason plantar fasciosis is common among runners, dancers, and anyone with poor foot posture. A sudden increase in activity or a shift to wearing less supportive footwear such as sandals, are other causes. The main symptom of plantar fasciosis is intense heel pain, particularly when first bearing weight in the morning or after periods of rest. A proper diagnosis involves a thorough examination of the foot and may include imaging tests. Understanding the difference between plantar fasciosis and plantar fasciitis is key to effective management of this type of pain. If you are grappling with persistent heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and the appropriate treatment options. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM of Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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