Hammertoe, a common foot condition, occurs when one or more toes bend abnormally at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. This condition can be caused by various factors, including wearing tight footwear that crowds the toes, having imbalanced muscles or foot abnormalities, and arthritis. Fortunately, there are exercises that can help alleviate discomfort and prevent further progression. Toe stretches, where you gently pull each toe to stretch and relax the tendons, can be beneficial. Rolling a tennis ball or cylindrical object under the arches of your feet can also help strengthen the muscles. Additionally, picking up small objects using your toes encourages flexibility and dexterity. Regularly practicing these exercises, coupled with wearing roomier shoes and using orthotic supports, can aid in managing hammertoes and maintaining foot health. If you have developed a hammertoe, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with additional relief and treatment tips.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot Health Center of Merrimack Valley. 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 one of our offices located in North Andover, and Tewksbury, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A bone fracture, such as an ankle fracture, occurs when a bone cracks or breaks due to high-force impact or stress. Even minor impacts can result in ankle fractures, especially in individuals with osteoporosis or bone cancer. An ankle fracture involves a complete or partial break in the ankle bone. Closed fractures spare surrounding tissue, while compound fractures break through the skin, raising infection risks. Fracture variations encompass avulsion, comminuted, compression, and more. Symptoms of a broken ankle differ based on age and injury severity and manifest as pain, swelling, bruising, and deformity. Causes of ankle fractures include trauma, overuse, and medical conditions. Age-related bone weakening and heightened disease susceptibility elevate fracture risk. Natural healing involves aligning and stabilizing the ankle bone with casts, plates, or rods. Healing duration depends on the fracture's severity and potential complications. Preventive measures include cautious exercising, proper diet, and addressing bone health, particularly during menopause. If you believe you have suffered a broken ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for essential tests and treatment.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot Health Center of Merrimack Valley. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in North Andover, and Tewksbury, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain is a common ailment that can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life. Several factors contribute to heel pain, with the most prevalent cause being plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the thick band of tissue running across the bottom of the foot. Other culprits include Achilles tendinitis, heel spurs, and bursitis. Lifestyle factors such as excessive weight, improper footwear, and repetitive overuse during physical activities can exacerbate the condition. Effective treatments for heel pain focus on reducing inflammation, managing pain, and promoting healing. Adequate rest and taking over-the-counter pain relievers may offer temporary relief. Stretching exercises and wearing orthotic inserts can provide significant relief. Early intervention and a comprehensive approach to treatment can help individuals regain their mobility and alleviate the discomfort associated with heel pain. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can properly diagnose the cause and offer effective treatment methods.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Health Center of Merrimack Valley. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in North Andover, and Tewksbury, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Pregnancy is a journey that brings numerous physical changes, and the feet and ankles are no exception. As the body adapts to accommodate the growing baby, various factors contribute to alterations in the feet and ankles. Many pregnant women develop swollen feet, known as edema, due to increased blood volume and fluid retention. The feet endure extra pressure as weight is gained, potentially causing discomfort and fatigue. Additionally, the hormone that is known as relaxin can loosen the ligaments, causing the feet to temporarily widen or develop into flat feet. The foot structure can become affected, which can cause overpronation. Mild relief may be found when comfortable shoes are worn, preferably those with proper arch support and a wider toe area. Many pregnant women find engaging in a gentle exercise routine beneficial, which can maintain foot health and reduce discomfort. If you would like more information about how pregnancy affects the feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot Health Center of Merrimack Valley. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in North Andover, and Tewksbury, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Stress fractures often occur in the feet, and can be caused by frequently participating in running and jumping activities. A stress fracture is considered to be a hairline fracture and can be uncomfortable. A patient who has a stress fracture will experience gradual pain, and many people will continue to pursue their chosen activity until walking becomes difficult. At this point, an X-ray or other imaging test can be performed to determine the severity of the stress fracture. Treatment can begin with temporarily stopping the activity and resting the foot as often as possible. Some people choose to wear a protective boot or walking cast, which can provide mobility and stability as the healing process occurs. Stress fractures can also occur from increasing speed and distance too quickly, or from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. If you have foot pain, and think it may be from a stress fracture, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat this condition.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot Health Center of Merrimack Valley. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in North Andover, and Tewksbury, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.