Hammertoe is a prevalent foot deformity characterized by an abnormal bending of one or more toes, typically the second, third, or fourth toe. This condition develops when the muscles and ligaments surrounding the toe joint become imbalanced, causing the affected toe to bend downward at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. Hammertoe can result from various factors, including genetics, wearing ill-fitting shoes that force the toes into unnatural positions, or foot trauma. Over time, the bent toe may become rigid and inflexible, leading to discomfort, pain, and difficulty while walking or wearing shoes. In some cases, corns or calluses may develop on the tops or tips of the affected toes due to friction and pressure against footwear. While hammertoe can be bothersome, early intervention with proper footwear, toe exercises, splinting, or orthotic devices can help alleviate symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening. Seeking prompt treatment from a podiatrist can ensure effective management of hammertoe and improve foot function and comfort. If you are afflicted with hammertoe, it is suggested that you confer with this type of doctor who can offer you relief and treatment remedies that are right for you.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Clover Podiatry. 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 offices located in Camas and Vancouver, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Poor foot circulation can silently wreak havoc on your health, manifesting in various troubling symptoms. One of the most common indicators is cold feet, often accompanied by numbness or tingling sensations. Swelling in the feet and ankles, particularly after prolonged periods of sitting or standing, may also signify compromised circulation. Additionally, you may notice changes in skin color, with the feet appearing pale or bluish. These symptoms can interfere with daily activities and diminish your quality of life. Several factors contribute to poor foot circulation, including underlying health conditions such as peripheral artery disease, diabetes, or hypertension. Lifestyle choices, like smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, and a diet high in saturated fats, can worsen poor circulation. Furthermore, obesity and certain medications may also impair circulation. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Clover Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Camas and Vancouver, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetes-related amputations pose a grave threat to individuals grappling with this chronic condition, but preventive measures can help to reduce this risk. Consistent blood sugar management is essential, and maintaining target levels through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and medication adherence can significantly reduce the likelihood of complications. Routine foot care is equally as vital, as inspecting feet daily for cuts, blisters, or infections and promptly treating any abnormalities can prevent minor issues from escalating. Wearing well-fitted shoes and socks can safeguard against pressure sores and friction-related injuries. Avoiding barefoot walking minimizes exposure to potential hazards. Regular visits to a podiatrist for foot examinations and professional care are imperative for early detection and intervention. Additionally, prioritizing cardiovascular health by managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels aids in preserving overall vascular function, reducing the risk of peripheral artery disease and subsequent amputations. By implementing these preventive strategies, individuals with diabetes can safeguard their feet and minimize the threat of amputations. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can present you with additional information about protecting your feet from amputation.

Diabetic Limb Salvage

Diabetic limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have a foot ulcer and diabetes, consult with one of our podiatrists from Clover Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Diabetic Limb Salvage?

Diabetic limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot, that has an infected ulcer, from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.

Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Amputation has been found to lead to higher mortality rates. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Camas and Vancouver, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.