Treatment for hammertoe, a condition where the toe bends abnormally, varies depending on the severity of the condition. Treatment can range from non-invasive approaches to surgical intervention. Initially, a podiatrist may recommend conservative methods, such as wearing roomier, more comfortable shoes to accommodate the deformity and using custom orthotic devices to relieve pain. Stretching exercises may also be recommended to strengthen toe muscles and improve flexibility. For more persistent cases, where the toe becomes rigid or pain is severe, surgical options may be considered. Surgery aims to straighten the toe, and this may involve removing a portion of the bone or realigning the tendons and ligaments. Post-surgery, patients often go through some rehabilitation to restore function and mobility. Consulting with a podiatrist about hammertoe is suggested to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific needs. 

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. 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 contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar warts are non-cancerous skin growths that appear on the soles of the feet and are caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV. These warts often look like small, rough lesions on the foot's surface, sometimes with a cauliflower-like texture. Unlike other types of warts, plantar warts grow inward due to the pressure of walking and standing, which can also cause a hard layer of skin, or callus, to form over them. They may have one or more black dots in the center, which are tiny blood vessels. Plantar warts can be painful, feeling like a lump under your foot when you stand or walk. While they can resolve on their own, treatment for plantar warts might be necessary if they cause discomfort or spread. If you have plantar warts, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment options. 

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

Acute ankle sprains are common injuries when the ligaments surrounding the ankle are stretched or torn. There are three main types of sprains. They are inversion, eversion, and high ankle sprains. Inversion sprains, the most prevalent, happen when the foot rolls inward, stretching the lateral ligaments. Eversion sprains occur when the foot rolls outward, affecting the medial ligaments. High ankle sprains involve the ligaments connecting the tibia and fibula and typically result from excessive external rotation of the foot. These injuries often transpire during activities involving sudden changes in direction, uneven surfaces, or improper landing from jumps. If not adequately treated, acute ankle sprains can lead to chronic ankle instability. This occurs when the ligaments do not heal properly, resulting in recurring episodes of instability, pain, and potential long-term joint damage. Chronic instability may necessitate rehabilitation exercises, bracing, or even surgery to regain stability and prevent further injury. If you have sprained your ankle, and especially if you have had recurrent ankle sprains, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for expert evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. 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 office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.