August 2021

Hammertoes are a common deformity in which the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes bend downward at the middle joint. This gives the affected toes a hammer-like appearance. They may also be referred to as claw toes, mallet toes, or retracted toes. This deformity is said to be more common among people who have bunions or high arches. Wearing poorly-fitted shoes and socks that squish the toes together can exacerbate the problem as well. Hammertoes can be stiff and painful. Over time, the toe joints can lose their flexibility and you may be unable to straighten the toes without surgical intervention. People with hammertoes also often notice corns and calluses forming at the tops of their toes, where the skin over the bent toes rubs against shoes. If you are suffering from hammertoes it is suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist. 

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists 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 contact our office located in Niagara Falls, ON . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Fungal toenail infections can be unsightly, causing the nails to thicken and become brittle, crumbly, and discolored. In severe cases, the nail may separate from the nail bed, which can be painful. People with diabetes should also be wary of toenail fungus, as it can lead to complications if left untreated. A podiatrist may prescribe various medications to treat toenail fungus. Topical medications are applied directly to the nail, often in the form of a cream or medicated nail polish. Oral medications are taken by mouth and help new, uninfected nails to grow in. Sometimes, a podiatrist may prescribe both treatments simultaneously, however, it can take months for an infection to clear up. If you have toenail fungus, please consult with a podiatrist to determine what treatments may be right for you. 

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of the chiropodists of The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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

There are 26 bones in the foot and recognizing the symptoms of a broken bone is important for ensuring the overall health of your feet. A broken foot can be as simple as a small hairline fracture (such as a stress fracture), or it can be a severe break that tears or pierces the skin. The most common symptoms of a broken foot are pain, swelling, and bruising. Other common signs include a snapping or grinding sensation at the time of injury, difficulty or pain when moving the affected foot, inability to bear weight on the foot, tenderness from touching the injury, and difficulty walking. Telling the difference between a broken foot and a sprained foot can be difficult. That is why anyone who believes that they may have a broken foot should consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis. A podiatrist will also be able to help provide the best treatment options for the broken bone.  

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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