Hammertoe is a foot deformity that causes one of the smaller toes to bend downward at the middle joint instead of lying flat. The condition usually affects the second toe, although it can involve other toes. At first, the toe may still move freely. As the condition progresses, the joint can become stiff and more difficult to straighten. People with hammertoe frequently notice pain, swelling, and irritation where the bent toe rubs against shoes. Corns and calluses can also develop because of repeated pressure. A podiatrist carefully examines the affected toe, evaluates its flexibility, and determines whether nearby joints are also involved. X-rays help reveal changes in bone alignment and assist with planning the most appropriate treatment.

Several factors can contribute to hammertoe. Muscle imbalance is one of the most common causes. This happens when the muscles and tendons that control the toe no longer work together properly, causing the toe to remain in a bent position. Arthritis, foot injuries, and inherited foot structure can also increase the risk of developing hammertoe. Wearing shoes that do not fit properly can place added pressure on the toes and make the deformity worse. As the condition advances, walking can become uncomfortable because the bent toe no longer rests naturally against the ground. A podiatrist evaluates the severity of the deformity and checks for joint stiffness, pain, and changes in foot function.

Treatment depends on how flexible the toe remains and how much the deformity affects daily activities. A podiatrist develops a treatment plan that improves comfort, restores function, and helps prevent further changes in toe alignment. Care includes custom orthotics, protective padding, and careful monitoring of the affected joints. Custom orthotics are specially made shoe inserts that improve foot support and reduce pressure on the toes. When the toe becomes rigid or the deformity is severe, surgery can straighten the toe and improve its position. If you have symptoms of hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effecitve relief, treatment and management tips. 

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Theresa Brown, DPM from Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Montgomery, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Sever’s disease causes heel pain in growing children, especially those who are physically active. It usually develops between ages eight and 14, when the heel bone is going through a period of growth. The condition affects the growth area where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel bone. This area is still developing from cartilage into mature bone. Repeated stress from running or jumping can irritate it and cause pain. Symptoms include heel pain with exercise, increased pain after activity, and limping. Some children also walk on their toes to reduce pressure on the painful heel. One or both heels can be affected.

Growth and activity levels can influence the development of Sever’s disease. A child can experience symptoms after increasing the amount or intensity of sports participation. Starting a new sport can also place different demands on the heel. Activities that involve frequent running and jumping are strongly linked with symptoms. Changes in height and weight can contribute as the body develops. Foot structure can play a role as well. Children with flat-foot posture can have a slightly greater risk. Certain shoes, especially those with a low heel, can place added strain on the growth area by increasing tension through the Achilles tendon.

A podiatrist can evaluate heel pain by discussing symptoms and examining the child’s feet and legs. X-rays are generally not used to diagnose Sever’s disease, although imaging can sometimes help rule out another cause of heel pain. Treatment focuses on reducing pain while managing activity appropriately. A podiatrist can recommend activity changes, heel raises, or custom orthotics based on the child’s needs. The condition rarely causes long-term problems once the growth area matures. If your active child has symptoms of Sever’s disease, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Theresa Brown, DPM from Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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

A gout flare can cause sudden, severe pain that is difficult to ignore. It usually affects one joint, with the base of the big toe being a frequent location. The ankle or another toe joint can also become painful. The area may look red and swollen. It can also feel warm or extremely tender. Even pressure from a sock or bedsheet can hurt. A flare can begin at night and intensify within hours. Without proper care, repeated attacks can damage joints and nearby bone. 

Gout develops when excess uric acid forms sharp crystals inside a joint. The kidneys usually remove uric acid, a natural waste product. A flare begins when the immune system reacts to these crystals, causing intense inflammation. Risk factors include kidney disease, family history, and certain health conditions. Alcohol intake, some foods, and dehydration can also contribute to an attack. Prompt evaluation is important. A podiatrist can examine the foot and review the patient’s medical history. Testing can confirm the cause and rule out other problems, such as an infection or another type of arthritis. 

Treatment from a podiatrist focuses on easing the current flare and reducing future attacks. The podiatrist can assess the painful joint and monitor changes. Recommendations can reduce pressure on the joint and guide the choice of suitable shoes. Custom orthotics can help when gout has changed foot structure or walking patterns. Patients with repeated flares can receive regular checks for joint damage, skin problems, and tophi. Deposits called tophi form when uric acid crystals collect beneath the skin and cause pain. Early care matters because untreated gout can become lasting arthritis. A podiatrist can explain warning signs that require urgent attention and create a follow-up plan. If you have symptoms of gout in the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for help in managing this painful condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Theresa Brown, DPM from Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

A ganglion cyst is a non-cancerous, fluid-filled lump that can develop near a joint or tendon. Ganglion cysts on the foot may form around the ankle, top of the foot, or near a joint where connective tissues are present. The cyst is usually filled with a thick, jelly-like fluid, and may feel soft or firm when touched. Symptoms may include a visible bump, tenderness, or aching. Irritation while walking may occur. The size of a cyst can change over time and may become more noticeable after activity.

The exact cause of a ganglion cyst is not always known. These cysts may develop when fluid from a joint or tendon sheath collects and forms a sac beneath the skin. Repeated stress or irritation around a joint may contribute to their development. Risk factors can include previous foot injuries, repetitive activity, and conditions that place ongoing stress on the feet. Some people develop a cyst without an obvious injury or triggering event. Because other lumps can look similar, a new growth should be evaluated rather than assumed to be a ganglion cyst.

A podiatrist can examine the foot and determine whether a ganglion cyst is responsible for the lump and symptoms. The evaluation may include reviewing medical history, examining the size and location of the cyst, and checking nearby joints and tendons. Imaging such as an ultrasound or an MRI scan may be recommended when the diagnosis is uncertain. When symptoms interfere with footwear or walking footwear changes may be suggested. Aspiration or surgical removal may be needed, depending on the cyst and the patient’s needs.

Ganglion cysts are usually benign, but persistent growth, pain, or changes in the surrounding skin deserve professional attention. A podiatrist can explain the available treatment options and help determine whether intervention is necessary. If you have a ganglion cyst on your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Theresa Brown, DPM from Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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