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It's no surprise that our feet often hurt considering that an average day of walking exerts a force on the feet that's equal to several hundred tons. All that rushing around makes our feet more prone to injury than any other part of the body. Your feet mirror your general health. Conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, nerve and circulatory disorders can show their initial symptoms in the feet - so foot ailments can be your first sign of more serious medical problems.

Studies show that 3 out of 4 Americans experience serious foot problems in their lifetime. Despite the millions of aching feet out there, many of us don't seek the medical attention we need for relief. Foot pain is never normal, and you shouldn't be resigned to teetering around on sore feet.

The conditions listed below and to the left are some of the most common foot ailments. No matter what causes your feet to ache, we can help.

The "foot conditions" section of this Web site is maintained to provide general information about foot health. The materials, information, and answers provided by and through this Web site are not intended to replace or to be a substitute for medical advice provided by a qualified physician or other appropriate health care professional based on individual patient evaluation. You should consult with our practice or other appropriate health care professional on specific medical questions, including matters requiring diagnosis, treatment, therapy or medical attention. click here for New Patient Form





Mallet Toes

Mallet Toes

Definition

Many disorders can affect the joints in the toes, causing pain and preventing the foot from functioning as it should.  A mallet toe occurs when the joint at the end of the toe can not straighten.  Excessive rubbing of the mallet toe against the top of the shoe can lead to pain and the development of a corn.  The tip of the toe is often turned down against the shoe causing pressure and discomfort.

Cause

The development of mallet toes is often caused by bone and muscle imbalances.  These imbalances become exaggerated in people with active life styles.  For example, people who are constantly on their feet or participate in athletic activities, are more likely to develop mallet toes.

Arthritis can also lead to many forefoot deformities, including mallet toes.  Mallet toes can cause extreme discomfort, and can be aggravated if restrictive or improperly fitting footwear is worn for a prolonged period of time.

Treatment & Prevention

Any forefoot problems that cause pain or discomfort should be given prompt attention.  Ignoring the symptoms can aggravate the condition and lead to a breakdown of tissue, or possibly even infection.  Conservative treatment of mallet toes is started with  accommodating the deformity.  The goal is to relieve pressure, reduce friction, and transfer forces from the sensitive areas.

Shoes with a high and broad toe box (toe area) are recommended for people suffering from forefoot deformities such as mallet toes.  This prevents further irritation on the toe area from developing.  Other conservative treatment includes forefoot supports such as, gel toe caps, gel toe shields and toe crests.  Gel forefoot supports provide immediate comfort and relief from common forefoot disorders, without drying the skin.

If the problem persists, please call us to schedule an appointment.



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