Are you suffering with a hammertoe? If so there is no need to let this common and painful condition affect your enjoyment of life. When you are in need of a foot surgeon to correct your hammertoe, or simply provide some relief from your condition, visit our Eureka Springs podiatrist.
At Ozark Foot & Ankle, PLC our expert and highly trained podiatric physician and surgeon is Dr. James J. Brantley. At our practice we provide our patients with full service foot care in a comfortable and stress-free setting. We offer comprehensive podiatric medical and surgical services. One of the many common conditions that our Eureka Springs podiatrist treats is hammertoe. A hammertoe occurs when there is an imbalance between a muscle and a ligament around the toe joint. The middle joint of the toe bends and eventually becomes stuck in position. The complaints commonly associated with hammertoe is rubbing and irritation that occurs on the top of the bent toe. This condition can happen to any toe. And due to the types of shoes that women wear, women are more likely to get pain from this condition. Hammertoe can become a serious problem in people with diabetes or poor circulation. If you have these conditions it is important that you see a foot doctor at the first sign of this or any other foot problem.
Our Eureka Springs podiatrist sees two different types of hammertoes: flexible and rigid. A flexible hammertoe can still be moved at the joint and will benefit from several treatment options. A rigid hammertoe cannot be moved and usually can only be corrected by surgery. Hammertoes are generally caused by genetics, arthritis, or injury to the toe – usually by poorly fitting shoes that are too tight or too pointy. If left untreated hammertoes usually become rigid, making surgery the main option for treatment. When you come to us for diagnosis, Dr. Brantley will examine your toe and x-ray the area. Based on his findings, treatment options will be determined and discussed with you. Early treatments can include: padding and taping of the affected area; anti-inflammatory medicines and cortisone injections to relieve pain; and orthotic devices. If you would like to see Dr. Brantley regarding your foot problem, contact us today.
By Ozark Foot & Ankle PLC
November 10, 2015