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Surgery to correct hammertoe is often considered when the condition causes persistent pain, stiffness, or deformity that interferes with walking. A hammertoe occurs when the middle joint of a toe bends downward, often affecting the second toe. One common surgical method is phalangeal head resection, in which part of the bone at the joint is removed so the toe can lie flat. Tendons are released and repositioned to match the corrected alignment, and the toe is held in place with a wire or tape while it heals. In some cases, an implant may be used to replace the removed bone segment. Following hammertoe surgery, special shoes are usually required, and full recovery time varies depending on healing. Risks can include infection, swelling, numbness, and stiffness in the toe. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the deformity and recommend surgery, when necessary. If you are considering surgery for hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for expert advice and guidance.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Centers for Foot & Ankle Care. 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 one of our offices located in Merrillville, Portage, Michigan City/LaPorte, and Schererville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition that affects the ball of the foot, usually between the third and fourth toes. It develops when a nerve becomes irritated, leading to discomfort that can feel sharp, stabbing, or burning. Some people also describe the sensation of having a pebble trapped in their shoe. Tingling or numbness in the toes may occur, and symptoms are often triggered or worsened by wearing tight shoes, high heels, or long periods of walking. Over time, the pain of Morton’s neuroma can progress and interfere with daily activities, making it difficult to move comfortably. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot, identify the source of the nerve irritation, and suggest the best way to reduce pressure and pain. In more severe cases, surgery may be discussed as an option. If you are experiencing symptoms of Morton’s neuroma, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Centers for Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Merrillville, Portage, Michigan City/LaPorte, and Schererville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Peroneal tendinitis occurs when the tendons running along the outer ankle become inflamed or weakened due to overuse, repetitive strain, or injury. These tendons, which connect the peroneal muscles to the bones of the foot, help stabilize the ankle, point the foot downward, and turn it outward. People with high arches, a history of ankle sprains, or those who frequently engage in running or sports involving quick pivoting are at a higher risk. Symptoms include gradual pain on the outer ankle that worsens with activity, stiffness in the morning, and discomfort when the foot is turned inward. A podiatrist can diagnose peroneal tendinitis through an examination and imaging, and provide treatment to reduce inflammation, correct abnormal foot mechanics, and restore tendon strength. In more severe cases, immobilization or surgery may be required if the tendon has significant tearing. If you have symptoms of peroneal tendinitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Centers for Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Merrillville, Portage, Michigan City/LaPorte, and Schererville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s foot, also called tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that commonly affects the skin on the feet. It often begins between the toes, where moisture and warmth allow fungi to thrive. Symptoms of athlete’s foot include itching, redness, peeling, and a scaly buildup on the skin. In some cases, painful cracks or fluid-filled blisters may develop, and the soles of the feet thicken over time. Untreated athlete’s foot can lead to secondary bacterial infections, especially when skin breakdown occurs. People who wear tight shoes or frequently walk barefoot in communal areas, like locker rooms or showers, are more at risk. A podiatrist can examine the affected area and confirm the diagnosis, sometimes with a skin scraping for microscopic evaluation. Treatment includes antifungal medication applied directly to the feet, or, in some cases, taken orally. If you have symptoms of athlete's foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Centers for Foot & Ankle Care.  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Merrillville, Portage, Michigan City/LaPorte, and Schererville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.