A hammertoe occurs when one of the smaller toes bends abnormally at the middle joint, but the effects often extend beyond the toe itself. This change in position can alter how weight is distributed across the foot, placing added pressure on the ball of the foot and surrounding structures. As the body adjusts to this imbalance, the way you walk may shift, leading to strain in the arch and increased tension along the plantar fascia, the band of tissue that supports the bottom of the foot. Over time, this added stress can contribute to discomfort in the heel, arch, or even the ankle and lower leg. A proper evaluation looks at both the toe deformity and overall foot function to identify the source of strain. Treatment may include padding, footwear changes, orthotics, or procedures to correct alignment. If symptoms persist, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Franklin Harry, DPM of Best Foot Forward. 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 offices located in Festus and St. Louis, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries affecting the foot and ankle. They often occur when the foot suddenly rolls inward on uneven ground or during sports that involve jumping or quick direction changes. This motion can stretch or tear the ligaments, which are strong bands of tissue that hold the ankle bones together and keep the joint stable. People with high arches, loose joints, or a history of past sprains may have a higher risk of ankle sprains. Symptoms typically include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking or placing weight on the foot. Ankle sprains are usually classified as mild, moderate, or severe, depending on how much the ligaments are damaged. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury, determine its severity, order imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis, and develop a treatment plan to restore strength and stability. If you have injured an ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Franklin Harry, DPM from Best Foot Forward. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Festus and St. Louis, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Pain under the big toe can be linked to irritation of the sesamoid bones, two small, round bones located beneath the big toe joint. These bones sit inside a tendon, a strong band of tissue that helps bend the toe. They act like shock absorbers and help support body weight when walking and running. Repetitive pressure from high-impact sports, wearing tight shoes, foot injuries, or certain foot structures can lead to inflammation in this area, known as sesamoiditis. People may notice aching, swelling, tenderness, or difficulty pushing off while walking. Pain may develop gradually and worsen with activity or when wearing shoes that press on the ball of the foot. A podiatrist can examine foot movement and order imaging tests to confirm the cause of pain. Treatment options include footwear guidance, protective padding, and custom orthotics to reduce pressure. If you have pain under the big toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Franklin Harry, DPM of Best Foot Forward. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

Flat feet occur when the arch on the inside of the foot is low or missing, causing most of the sole to touch the ground while standing or walking. The arch helps absorb shock and spread body weight during movement. When it flattens, the foot may roll inward and place strain on muscles and joints. Some people with flat feet have no symptoms, but others develop pain in the arch, heel, or ankle. Pain often worsens after long periods of standing or walking. Swelling along the inside of the ankle, tired feet, or shoes wearing out unevenly may also occur. Flat feet may develop when arches fail to form during childhood, or when supportive tissues weaken with age. Injury, arthritis, excess body weight, or inherited conditions can also affect foot structure. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Franklin Harry, DPM from Best Foot Forward. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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