Hammertoe is a toe deformity that causes one of the smaller toes to remain bent instead of lying flat. It usually affects the second, third, or fourth toe. The abnormal bend can create pressure where the toe rubs against a shoe. Corns can form on top of the toe, while calluses can develop near its tip. Pain while walking can become more noticeable as the deformity progresses. Some patients also have other foot changes, including high arches or a bunion.

Several factors can contribute to hammertoe.  wearing shoes that are too tight in the toe box can squeeze the toes into a bent position. High-heeled shoes can also increase pressure on the front of the foot. In some patients, the structure of the foot or an imbalance in the muscles and tendons contributes to the deformity. A hammertoe can remain flexible in its early stages, meaning the toe can still be straightened. As the condition progresses, the joint can become stiff and remain fixed in a bent position.

A podiatrist can examine the affected toe and determine whether the deformity is flexible or rigid. X-rays can show which joints are involved and whether other changes are present. Treatment for a flexible hammertoe can include padding, splints, or prescription orthotics. A podiatrist can also recommend properly-fitting shoes with enough room in the toe box to reduce pressure. When the toe becomes rigid and painful, surgery can be considered to straighten it and improve function. Treatment depends on the severity of the bend, the amount of stiffness, and other foot problems. Early evaluation can help address painful pressure points before they become more difficult to manage. If you have developed a hammertoe,  it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Spartan Podiatry. 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 offices located in Battle Creek and Marshall, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle pain while walking can make simple activities feel difficult. The ankle supports the body and helps the foot move with each step, so pain in this area can affect balance and movement. Ankle pain can develop after an injury, but it can also have other causes. Sprains, tendon issues, and problems involving the bones or joints can all contribute to ankle discomfort. Pain may occur on one or both sides of the ankle and can range from mild soreness to sharp or severe discomfort. Swelling, stiffness, or difficulty putting weight on the foot can also occur. A podiatrist can examine the ankle and determine what could be causing the pain.

A podiatrist can assess the ankle by checking its movement, strength, and areas of tenderness. The examination helps determine whether the pain is related to an injury, a tendon, or another part of the foot and ankle. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the symptoms. Care can include protecting the affected area, reducing stress on the ankle, and using treatment designed to improve movement and function. A podiatrist can also assess how foot structure and walking patterns affect the ankle. This can be helpful when pain continues or returns after activity. 

Ankle pain while walking should receive prompt attention when it is severe, or makes it difficult to put weight on the foot. Significant swelling, a change in the shape of the ankle, or severe pain after an injury can also require careful evaluation. A podiatrist can determine whether imaging tests or additional treatment is appropriate based on the findings. Identifying the cause of ankle pain can help guide care and reduce the chance of continued problems with movement. An evaluation is also useful when ankle pain continues without a clear injury. If you have  ankle pain while walking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Spartan Podiatry. Our doctors 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 tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• 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 offices located in Battle Creek and Marshall, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

The feet absorb steady pressure each day as they carry your body weight and rub against your shoes. This friction can separate nearby layers of skin. Clear fluid then fills the small space, creating a thin-walled sac called a blister. Blisters can form on the toes, heels, or soles, and their size can vary. They can make standing, working, and walking painful. Although most result from rubbing, a blister can sometimes point to an infection or another health problem.

Shoes that fit poorly are a leading cause. Loose shoes can slide and rub, while tight shoes can pinch the skin. Vigorous activities like running, hiking, or sports also increase friction. Other causes include frostbite, eczema, and scabies. Viral or bacterial infections can create blisters as well. People with diabetes can develop painless blisters that appear without a clear injury, especially when nerve damage reduces feeling in the feet. A blister that keeps returning deserves attention. Warning signs of infection include redness, warmth, and pus. A foul smell, increasing pain, or spreading swelling indicates the need for prompt care.

A podiatrist can examine the blister, check the surrounding skin, and determine its cause. The exam also includes a chance to look for pressure points, poor shoe fit, or reduced feeling. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the blister. A podiatrist can drain a large or painful blister safely while protecting the skin that covers it. The doctor can also clean and dress an open blister, treat an infection, and recommend padding that reduces pressure. When repeated rubbing is the problem, a podiatrist can assess how your feet move and recommend shoes with a better fit. If you have a painful or infected blister on your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and prevention solutions.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Spartan Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Battle Creek and Marshall, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Falls are a leading cause of injury, especially among older adults, but foot health plays an important role in maintaining balance and stability. Painful feet, reduced flexibility, or changes in the way a person walks can increase the risk of losing balance. Conditions such as arthritis, bunions, and nerve damage may make standing or walking more difficult. Weakness in the feet or ankles can also reduce stability during everyday activities. In addition, poor balance may develop gradually, making it difficult to recognize an increased fall risk. Because many foot problems progress if not treated, regular podiatry evaluations are an important part of falls prevention and maintaining long-term mobility.

Several factors can contribute to falls, including reduced muscle strength, changes in vision, and certain medical conditions. Foot pain or limited ankle movement may further affect walking mechanics and make it harder to recover from a loss of balance. Some people begin taking shorter or slower steps to avoid discomfort, which can increase instability instead of improving it. A comprehensive podiatry examination evaluates foot structure, joint function, and walking patterns to identify issues that may contribute to falls. Identifying these concerns early allows treatment to begin before balance problems lead to a serious injury. Addressing foot-related conditions may also improve confidence while walking and support greater independence.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating foot and ankle conditions that may increase the risk of falls. Professional care focuses on improving foot function, relieving pain, and helping patients move with greater stability. Treatment is individualized based on each patient's symptoms, medical history, and mobility needs. Ongoing podiatry care also allows changes in foot health to be monitored so concerns can be addressed promptly. If you are experiencing foot pain, balance problems, or difficulty walking safely, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Spartan Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Battle Creek and Marshall, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.