A condition known as trigger toe affects the movement of the big toe, often causing pain and difficulty in extending it. Trigger toe is most common among dancers, particularly when they engage in repetitive motion. Trigger toe occurs when the flexor hallucis longus, or FHL, tendon becomes irritated or inflamed, and is unable to glide smoothly within its sheath. This tendon runs along the inside of the ankle, passes behind the bony bump on the inner ankle, and continues along the sole of the foot to attach at the base of the big toe. It helps point the big toe and is used in movements like rising onto the toe. Symptoms of trigger toe include pain, stiffness, or a catching feeling in the toe. A podiatrist can conduct a physical exam and order imaging tests to diagnose the problem. Recovery may take four to six weeks, involving targeted stretches, supportive devices, and limited activity. In extreme cases, surgery may be needed to release the affected tendon. If you are experiencing difficulty extending your big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Cascade Foot Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

Proper foot care is essential for individuals with diabetes to prevent complications like infections and ulcers. Daily inspection of the feet helps identify cuts, blisters, or changes in skin color before they worsen. Washing the feet with mild soap and warm water keeps them clean, while moisturizing prevents dryness and cracking. Toenails should be trimmed straight across to reduce the risk of ingrown nails. Wearing well-fitted shoes with proper support protects against pressure points and injuries. Keeping feet away from extreme temperatures helps prevent burns or frostbite, as complications from diabetes can reduce sensation in the feet. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Cascade Foot Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bend and Redmond, OR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Hammertoe is not just a toe that curls. It is a deformity where the middle joint bends abnormally, often due to muscle imbalance, wearing ill-fitting shoes, or genetics. Unlike mallet toe, which affects only the joint nearest the nail, hammertoe strikes the middle joint. And unlike a bunion, which pushes the big toe sideways, hammertoe causes smaller toes to contract, sometimes painfully. Left untreated, the toe stiffens, making walking uncomfortable and shoe choices frustrating. Treatments include toe exercises and padding, along with wearing custom orthotics and wider footwear. If the joint becomes rigid, surgery may be necessary. Ignoring a hammertoe can lead to corns, ulcers, and permanent damage. If you have a hammertoe that is causing you discomfort, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can assess its severity, and guide you on the best course of action.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Cascade Foot Clinic. 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 our offices located in Bend and Redmond, OR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.