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Hammertoe Stretches May Enhance Foot Flexibility

Hammertoe, a common foot deformity characterized by abnormal bending of the toe joints, can cause discomfort and limit mobility. Incorporating regular stretches into your daily routine can help alleviate tension and improve flexibility in the affected toes. One effective stretch is the toe extensor stretch, which involves gently pulling the affected toes upward and holding the position for several seconds to stretch the tendons and muscles on the top of the toes. Another beneficial stretch is the toe flexor stretch, where you interlace your fingers between the toes and gently press them together to stretch the toe joints and muscles on the bottom of the toes. Additionally, rolling a small ball or towel under the arches of your feet can help relieve tension and promote better toe alignment. By performing these stretches consistently and gently, individuals with hammertoes can enhance flexibility, reduce discomfort, and maintain better foot health overall. If you have hammertoe, and would like to know more about specific stretches to perform, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer a tailored treatment plan.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Our doctors 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 Wesley Chapel, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked

Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

Facts About the Ankle-Brachia Index Test

The Ankle-Brachial Index, or ABI, test is a diagnostic tool podiatrists use to assess peripheral arterial disease. This is a condition characterized by narrowed or blocked arteries, caused primarily by plaque buildup and which leads to poor blood flow to the legs. By measuring blood pressure at the ankle, at rest, and sometimes post-exercise, the ABI helps predict the severity of peripheral artery disease, a condition primarily caused by arterial narrowing or blockage due to plaque buildup. A normal ABI falls within the range of 1.0 to 1.4, indicating sufficient blood flow and minimal arterial obstruction, while values of 0.9 or lower suggest peripheral artery disease. Additionally, ABI values above 1.40 may also signal arterial stiffness and potential cardiovascular risks. Notably, a slight drop in ABI post-exercise further confirms the presence of peripheral artery disease. This test is instrumental not only in diagnosing lower extremity vascular issues but also in identifying individuals at heightened risk for heart attacks and strokes. Consequently, integrating ABI testing into routine podiatric assessments enables early detection and management of PAD. If you have peripheral artery disease symptoms, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an examination and possibly ABI testing. 

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with one of our podiatrists from New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

  • Claudication (leg pain from walking)
  • Numbness in legs
  • Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
  • Paleness of the skin
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
  • Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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

Read more about Peripheral Artery Disease

Custom Orthotics For Seniors

Age gracefully and move freely with Custom Orthotics. For seniors seeking to maintain their independence, Custom Orthotics offer the stability and comfort essential for daily activities. Custom-tailored to your feet, they provide support, reduce pain, and enhance mobility, ensuring you're always on sure footing. Don't let age-related foot concerns hold you back. With Custom Orthotics, embrace every golden moment with confidence. Call today to schedule an appointment.

Myths About Custom Orthotics

Custom foot orthoses have a rich history, dating back to the mid-19th century when Lewis Durlacher created molded leather devices to address foot issues for Queen Victoria. Over the years, several myths have emerged about the function and effects of custom orthoses. First, custom orthotics are personalized medical devices designed to optimize foot and lower extremity function by modifying ground reaction forces' timing, location, and magnitude. They do not force the foot into specific joint positions but work with their unique morphology, stiffness, and cushioning properties to achieve therapeutic goals. Custom foot orthoses serve various purposes, from relieving diabetic neuropathic ulcers to reducing tension stress in conditions like plantar fasciitis. They also redirect ground reaction forces to prevent bending moments responsible for stress fractures and other issues. That there is one best way to design custom orthoses is another myth. The flexibility of custom orthoses allows for tailored solutions for different pathologies. Lastly, the notion that custom foot orthoses weaken feet over time lacks scientific backing. In fact, research suggests that they can enhance foot muscle activation. If you would like to understand more about how custom orthotics might help you, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you’re experiencing foot discomfort, have a history of foot and ankle injuries, or are interested in exploring Custom orthotics, don’t hesitate to contact one of our podiatrists at New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Our doctors is dedicated to offering the care required to help you remain pain-free and stay on your feet. 

What are Custom Orthotics?

Custom orthotics refer to custom inserts designed for placement in different shoe types, including athletic and formal footwear, with the purpose of alleviating a spectrum of foot-related problems such as flat feet, heel pain, and overall foot discomfort. These inserts are instrumental in providing relief and comfort for a diverse range of foot conditions, including heel pain, and can also act as a proactive approach to injury prevention. 

Medical Grade Shoe Inserts: 

A diverse array of shoe inserts is available for addressing foot pain, heel discomfort, and minor issues. For instance, you can place arch supports in your shoes to rectify overarched or flat feet, and gel and cushioned insoles are frequently chosen for the comfort and relief they provide from foot and heel pain by reducing pressure. 

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

Read more about Investing in Custom Orthotics Means Investing in Foot Health
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