Hammertoes, a deformity where the toe bends upward at the middle toe joint, can cause significant discomfort. When conservative treatments fail, surgery may provide lasting relief. Several surgical options are based on the flexibility of the affected joint, often in the second toe. Tendon transfer surgery is often used for a flexible hammertoe, where tendons are repositioned to straighten the toe and restore balance. For rigid hammertoes, surgery involves cutting tendons and ligaments, sometimes removing part of the bone, and stabilizing the toe with temporary pins. Fusion surgery may also be performed, which removes parts of the joint to allow bones to fuse together, resulting in a straighter, more stable toe. In severe cases, amputation may be considered, but this is rare and typically reserved for extreme pain when no other treatments work. A podiatrist can assess the type and severity of a hammertoe to determine the most appropriate surgical approach to relieve pain and restore foot function. If you are experiencing pain from a hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Associates in Podiatry, PC. 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 Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, can be caused by various factors that affect foot health. Diabetes can lead to poor circulation and dry skin, increasing the risk of cracked heels. Hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid does not produce enough hormones, can also cause dry skin and thickened skin around the heels. Skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema can contribute to cracked heels due to dryness and irritation. Fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot, can cause the skin on the feet to peel, crack, and become inflamed. Additionally, a vitamin deficiency, especially in zinc or omega-3 fatty acids, can lead to skin issues, including cracked heels. Keeping feet moisturized, treating underlying health conditions, and practicing proper foot care are essential to prevent and manage cracked heels. Cracked heels can be painful and unsightly. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can successfully treat cracked heels, which often includes prescribed medication.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Associates in Podiatry, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments surrounding the ankle joint are overstretched or torn, typically resulting from a twisting motion. This injury often causes immediate pain, swelling, and bruising around the ankle. People with an ankle sprain may experience difficulty walking, putting weight on the affected foot, or moving the ankle. More severe sprains can result in significant instability, where the ankle feels weak or gives way unexpectedly. Repeated or untreated sprains may lead to long-term joint pain or reduced mobility. A podiatrist can diagnose and treat ankle sprains with imaging tests, bracing, or other customized treatments to support healing and restore strength. If you believe you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible so proper healing can begin.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Associates in Podiatry, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A surgical method called the Mini-BEAR system offers a less invasive way to fix certain foot issues. Instead of using multiple long cuts like in traditional surgeries such as medial displacement calcaneal osteotomy, which involves shifting the heel bone inward to improve alignment, or lateral column lengthening, which extends the outer part of the foot to correct flat feet, this approach uses smaller incisions. This can mean shorter surgery times, quicker healing, and smaller scars for patients. This technique also reduces the amount of work done inside the foot, which can lower pain levels after surgery. Because of this, patients may need fewer painkillers like narcotics during recovery. It is a good option for people looking for a simpler, less painful treatment for their foot problems. If you think this type of procedure might help you, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist to learn more about your options, and the best treatment for your needs.  

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry, PC. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.