The medical condition that is known as hammertoe can occur as a result of wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. It affects the second and third toes and causes them to bend at the middle joints, which often makes them resemble hammers. Patients may develop calluses on top of the affected toes, and this is the result of friction as the toes rub against the shoes. Effective treatment methods for mild cases can consist of wearing shoes that fit properly, and it may help to perform specific stretches. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to permanently straighten the toes. If you are afflicted with hammertoe, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can help you with proper treatment management.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor 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 offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

There are five elongated bones that are located in the feet which are known as the metatarsal bones. These bones absorb the impact that occurs as walking and running are done, and as a result, can become fractured. Stress fractures are considered to be hairline fractures and can happen when repetitive activities are frequently performed. Common symptoms of stress fractures include pain, swelling, and bruising. It is beneficial to avoid putting weight on the affected foot as the healing process takes place. It can occur as a result of a sudden change in running, or from eating foods that have insufficient nutrients. The average recovery time is approximately six to eight weeks, and it may help to gradually return to high impact activities. If you are suffering from a stress fracture, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can determine what the best treatment option is for you.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many people enjoy hiking. Blisters can develop as a result of the miles that are walked on uneven surfaces, and they can be uncomfortable. Excessive friction is a reason blisters can form, which can be caused by wearing shoes and socks that do not fit correctly. A blister is defined as the body’s natural ability to heal damaged skin. A small bubble that is filled with protective fluid forms over the affected area, and will gradually drain as new skin forms. Research has indicated the importance of properly caring for your feet before beginning a hike. These methods can include treating an existing foot fungus, walking barefoot to toughen the skin, and keeping the toenails trimmed. If a blister develops, it can help to protect it with an elastic bandage while hiking is pursued. If you would like additional information about blisters, or if you have a blister that has become infected, please consult with a podiatrist.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. James Kutchback of James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often 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.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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