A hammertoe occurs when one of the smaller toes bends abnormally at the middle joint, creating a curled or claw-like shape. While it may begin as a mild change, it can gradually affect how the entire foot functions. As the toe loses its normal position, pressure shifts to the ball of the foot, altering weight distribution with each step. This can place extra demand on surrounding joints, tendons, and muscles, leading to compensation patterns in walking. Over time, these changes can increase tension along the sole of the foot, particularly in the plantar fascia, the band of tissue that supports the arch. As strain builds, discomfort may extend beyond the toes into the heel or ankle. Without proper management, the condition can worsen and impact overall mobility. If you have a hammertoe, it is suggested that you seek early care and guidance from a podiatrist who can help restore balance and reduce ongoing foot stress.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot Health Center. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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

Toe pain can come from many different causes, ranging from minor irritation to more serious conditions. Common reasons include ingrown toenails, corns, calluses, and blisters caused by wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or stress fractures can also lead to pain and swelling. Medical conditions may also play a role. Arthritis can cause stiffness and discomfort in the joints, while gout leads to sudden, intense pain often affecting the big toe. Nerve issues, like pinched nerves or neuropathy, may cause burning or tingling sensations. Infections or fungal nail problems can also contribute to discomfort. Treatment depends on the cause, but may include wearing proper footwear, rest, medications, or minor procedures. Early care can prevent symptoms from worsening. If you are experiencing persistent toe pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot Health Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Rogers and Berryville, AR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis is often described as sharp heel pain with first steps, but many people notice it behaves in less predictable ways. The plantar fascia, a strong band of tissue along the bottom of the foot, helps store and release energy with each step. When it becomes irritated, the pain may ease after moving, then return later in the day or after standing too long. Tight calves, changes in activity, or even long periods of sitting can all play a role. It is not always about overuse. Wearing supportive shoes, gentle stretching, and pacing daily activity can help calm symptoms. Avoiding sudden increases in walking or exercise is also important. Early attention can prevent a longer recovery. If heel discomfort lingers or keeps returning, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Health Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

Fungal infections can cause the toenails to become thickened, discolored, and brittle over time. The toenail may appear yellow, white, or even darkened, and its surface can look uneven or crumbly. Some patients notice a buildup of debris beneath the nail or a separation from the nail bed. While the condition is often painless at first, it can lead to discomfort as the toenail thickens or presses against footwear. Fungal nails develop when fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, such as sweaty feet. Minor toenail injuries or a weakened immune system are other factors. A podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis through examination and testing if needed. Treatment includes topical or oral antifungal medication, as well as professional toenail care to reduce thickness and improve appearance. Addressing the infection early can help prevent its spread to other nails. If you are dealing with fungal toenails, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot Health Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Rogers and Berryville, AR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.