Hammertoe is a deformity in which one of the smaller toes bends at the middle joint, creating a shape that resembles a hammer. It occurs more often in women, and it is frequently related to footwear choices that place pressure on the toes. This condition is commonly seen when the second toe is longer than the big toe, which can increase crowding in shoes. Pain may develop on the top of the bent toe from rubbing against footwear, or at the ball of the foot from added pressure. Risk factors include wearing tight shoes, foot structure, and muscle imbalance. A podiatrist can evaluate the toe, recommend supportive footwear, and provide treatment to reduce discomfort. If you have developed a hammertoe, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Bangor Podiatry. 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 Bangor, Gilbert, and Bethlehem, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Articular fractures in the foot are breaks that extend into a joint, which makes them more serious than typical fractures. Since joints allow smooth movement between bones, damage in this area can lead to stiffness, pain, or even arthritis if not handled properly. Doctors usually begin by using imaging tools like X-rays or CT scans to see how severe the injury is. For mild cases, treatment may include rest, wearing a cast or boot, and avoiding putting weight on the foot. More serious fractures often need surgery to realign the joint and hold the bones in place with screws or plates. Recovery doesn’t stop there. Targeted exercise plays a big role in regaining strength and flexibility. If you suspect a foot injury, it is suggested that you seek care from a podiatrist early to protect your mobility and long-term health.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

A podiatrist is a medical specialist focused on diagnosing and treating conditions of the foot, ankle, and lower extremities. People visit a podiatrist for persistent foot pain, injuries, or changes in skin and nails. Diabetes increases the risk of nerve damage and poor circulation, making regular foot care by a podiatrist essential to deal with ulcers and infections. Foot arthritis can cause stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility that benefit from expert evaluation and treatment. Joint pain in the foot and ankle may result from overuse, injury, or structural problems that require proper management. Heel pain is often linked to plantar fasciitis and can worsen without care. Additionally, ingrown toenails can become painful and infected, if not treated properly. If you have any of the above symptoms or other foot and ankle issues, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat various foot and ankle conditions.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

• Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
• Use innovative methods to treat conditions
• Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
• Correct walking patterns and balance
• Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

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

A diabetic foot ulcer is an open sore that develops on the foot due to poor circulation. It can be missed because of reduced sensation associated with diabetes. These ulcers often form from pressure, minor injuries, or irritation that goes unnoticed. Risk factors include high blood sugar levels, nerve damage, poor footwear, and limited blood flow. Antibiotics are not typically used for uninfected ulcers, as they are intended to treat bacterial infections rather than promote healing. Proper wound care, pressure relief, and monitoring are essential for recovery. A podiatrist can assess the ulcer, provide specialized treatment, and help prevent complications. Early care can protect foot health and reduce risks. If you have diabetes and have developed a foot wound or ulcer, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management solutions.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Bangor, Gilbert, and Bethlehem, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.