Hammertoe and mallet toe are common toe deformities, but they affect different joints. Hammertoe typically involves the second toe and bends at the middle joint, causing it to curl downward. Mallet toe, on the other hand, affects the joint closest to the toenail, making the tip of the toe point down. Both conditions often develop from pressure caused by wearing tight shoes, injury, or muscle imbalances. Early treatment may include switching to shoes with a roomy toe box, using protective padding, and performing toe-stretching exercises. In some cases, splints or orthotic inserts may help realign the toe. When these methods are not enough and pain or difficulty in walking persists, surgery may be necessary to correct the joint. If you notice your toe starting to bend unnaturally or becomes painful, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for relief options.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM from Seaford Foot Care Center. Our doctor 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 contact our office located in Seaford, and Bethpage, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The ankle is a complex joint made up of bones, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage, all working together to support movement and stability. When an injury occurs, one or more of these structures may be affected. A sprain typically involves stretching or tearing of the ligaments that connect bone to bone, often on the outer side of the ankle. Strains affect muscles or tendons, while fractures involve a break in one of the bones, such as the tibia, fibula, or talus. Swelling, bruising, and pain usually follow, as blood vessels and tissues respond to the trauma. In some cases, cartilage may also be damaged, contributing to long-term discomfort or stiffness. Understanding which structures are involved is key to guiding proper treatment and healing. If you have persistent ankle pain or limited motion after an injury, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis 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 Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM from Seaford Foot Care Center. Our doctor 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 our office located in Seaford, and Bethpage, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Shoe orthotics are not just for athletes or people with foot pain, they can benefit anyone whose feet are not functioning at their best. Custom orthotics are specially designed to support your unique foot structure, helping to correct alignment, absorb shock, and improve balance. You might need them if you suffer from chronic heel pain, arch problems, flat feet, or conditions like plantar fasciitis or arthritis. Even knee, hip, or back pain can sometimes be traced back to poor foot mechanics. Unlike over-the-counter inserts, custom orthotics are made from molds of your feet, so they address your specific needs. They can fit in many types of shoes and help reduce fatigue during everyday activities. If your feet ache or you feel unsteady on your feet, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can assess your gait and recommend whether orthotics could improve your comfort and long-term foot health.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM from Seaford Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Seaford, and Bethpage, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.