December 2022

All of the toes, except for the big toe, have three bony segments that are separated by joints. The foot condition that is known as hammertoe can cause the joints that are between the first and second segment to bend downward, and it generally affects the second and third toe. It is considered to be a deformity, and can be caused by genetic factors or from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. These types of shoes typically do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in and can change the shape of the foot. Many patients can experience pain in the ball of the foot, and difficulty in finding shoes that fit properly. Additionally, corns may develop on top of the toes as a result of friction that is caused by the toes constantly touching the top of the shoe. Hammertoe is easy to diagnose, and X-rays are often not necessary to take. Relief may come from performing specific stretches, and cushioned pads may be used on top of the corns. If you have developed hammertoe, please speak to a podiatrist who can diagnose and offer you correct treatment solutions, which may include surgery for permanent straightening.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff from Lake Worth Podiatry. 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 office located in Lake Worth, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Broken toes are a common injury. They may happen because of a heavy object falling on one or more of the toes, as well as stubbing a toe into a piece of furniture. There is often immediate bruising and swelling, and it can be difficult to move. A bone that protrudes from the skin can look deformed and will need immediate medical attention. If the fracture is severe, as in the preceding description, surgery may be necessary to align the bone back into its proper place. For mild breaks, the buddy taping system is often effective. This is done by taping the affected toe to the toe next to it, which provides the necessary stability as the healing process occurs. If the big toe is broken, some patients need to have it put in a cast for extra support. Using crutches may be recommended and this is helpful in keeping all weight off the affected toe while being able to walk. Severely broken toes may have blood that is trapped under the toenail possibly causing extreme pain. This can require the blood to be drained through a small hole that is made in the nail or it may be necessary to remove the nail. It is suggested that patients who have broken a toe see a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, ultimately leading to proper healing.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff from Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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

A bunion can be unsightly. It is a bony protrusion that forms on the side of the big toe, and a severe bunion can cause the other toes to shift toward each other. It is a common foot deformity and affects women more than men. A callus may form on top of the bunion as it touches the shoe, and larger shoes may need to be purchased for a better fit. A bunion generally develops gradually, and it may form because of the shoes that are worn. Wearing high heels frequently can cause a bunion to grow and this may be due to the limited amount of room in the toe box. Medical conditions such as arthritis and flat feet may contribute to the development of a bunion. Some patients may be more at risk from genetic factors. Some of the symptoms that are often associated with bunions can include chronic toe pain, redness, and the bump may be shiny. Relief may be found when the symptoms are managed, the shoes are changed, or custom-made orthotics are worn. If you have a bunion, it is strongly urged that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer treatment options which may include surgery for permanent removal.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

A common Achilles tendon injury is called Achilles tendinopathy. This is defined as damage that occurs in the Achilles tendon, which is located in the calf. The function of the Achilles tendon is to connect the calf muscles to the heels. It is known as the strongest and thickest tendon in the body, and is responsible for walking, running, or jumping movements. A sports mishap can result in a serious Achilles tendon injury. Achilles tendinopathy occurs when this tendon has become irritated and inflamed, and often causes severe pain and discomfort. Many people can experience this type of injury from increasing speed and mileage too quickly while running, in addition to eliminating a proper warm-up and cool-down. Wearing shoes that do not fit correctly may result in experiencing this type of injury, and this may put excess stress on the heels. The common symptoms many people have include swelling that appears at the back of the ankle, and it is difficult, if not impossible, to point and flex the foot. If you have endured this type of injury, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you with effective relief methods.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lake Worth, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.