Hammertoe is a foot-related deformity in which one or more of the smaller toes develops a bend at the middle joint, causing the toe to rise up in the middle rather than lie flat. This condition often develops from a muscle-related imbalance that places abnormal pressure on the toe joints over time. Causes include poorly fitted footwear, inherited foot structure, or prolonged pressure on the forefoot. Symptoms include pain along the top of the bent toe when wearing shoes, irritation from friction, and corns forming on the top of the toe joint. Risk factors include wearing tight or high-heeled shoes and having certain foot shapes. A podiatrist can evaluate the deformity and recommend treatment. If you have symptoms of hammertoe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for prompt, effective care.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Stephanie Tine, DPM of Flamingo Foot and Ankle. Our doctor 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 Fort Lauderdale, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Healthy feet are vital for maintaining mobility and independence as we age. Seniors should perform a daily assessment of the feet, checking for redness, swelling, sores, or changes in skin color. Keeping feet clean and thoroughly dry helps prevent fungal infections and skin breakdown. Proper toenail care is equally important, as thick or ingrown nails can lead to discomfort and infection. Additionally, choosing supportive, well-fitting shoes reduces pressure points and lowers the risk of falls. Ongoing health concerns like diabetes require careful monitoring to prevent serious complications. A podiatrist can provide routine evaluations, treat concerns early, and recommend protective footwear. If you are a senior experiencing foot pain, or are caring for an elderly person, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional effective daily foot care tips.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Stephanie Tine, DPM from Flamingo Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

Pressure ulcers on the feet, heels, and ankles are skin injuries caused by constant pressure that reduces blood flow to the area. They are more common in people who spend long periods in bed or in a wheelchair. Early signs include skin that looks red, purple, or blue and does not turn white when pressed. The area may feel warm, firm, or painful. If the pressure continues, the skin can break down and form an open sore, or ulcer. In severe cases, the wound can become deep enough to reach muscle or bone. Risk factors include diabetes, poor circulation, nerve damage, and limited movement. A podiatrist can examine the skin, check blood flow and feeling in the feet, and determine the stage of the ulcer. Treatment involves removing damaged tissue if needed, and applying proper wound dressings and pressure-relieving devices to protect healing tissue. If you have developed pressure ulcers in the lower limbs, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

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 Stephanie Tine, DPM from Flamingo Foot and Ankle. Our doctor 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 office located in Fort Lauderdale, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Intoeing in children is a condition in which the feet turn inward while walking or running. It is commonly noticed during early childhood and often relates to developmental alignment changes. Frequent causes include conditions where the thigh bone rotates inward, the shin bone twists inward, or the front portion of the foot is curved. These variations are usually related to growth patterns and positioning before birth. Although many cases improve naturally, some children may experience tripping, discomfort, or gait concerns. A podiatrist can evaluate lower limb alignment and recommend supportive treatments when needed. If your child has been born with intoeing, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Stephanie Tine, DPM of Flamingo Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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