Gradual changes in toe position can be an early sign of a hammertoe, where one or more toes bend at the middle joint and no longer rest flat. Common signs include toe stiffness, irritation from footwear, and corns or calluses. As the hammertoe progresses, the toe may become rigid, limiting movement and causing more pain. Muscle imbalance, nerve conditions, injury, and long-term pressure on the toes can all contribute to this toe deformity. A podiatrist can evaluate toe alignment, joint flexibility, and foot structure to confirm the diagnosis and determine treatment. Some cases of hammertoe may require surgery to correct alignment and relieve pain. If you notice changes to the structure of your toes, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Comprehensive Footcare Clinic - Hawaii. 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 office located in Honolulu, HI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ankle sprain can weaken muscles and reduce joint control, making exercises an important part of recovery. Gentle range of motion movements, like slowly drawing the alphabet with the toes, can help restore mobility without placing excess stress on healing tissues. Stretching the calf muscles may reduce stiffness around the ankle and improve flexibility while walking. As strength improves, controlled exercises like heel raises help rebuild stability by engaging the muscles that support the ankle joint. Balance activities, including standing on one foot, are often used to improve coordination and reduce the risk of repeat sprains. These exercises should progress gradually, since pushing too quickly may delay healing or cause further injury. A podiatrist can evaluate ankle stability and recommend exercises that match the stage of recovery, while monitoring for ligament damage or joint problems. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, treatment, and exercise options.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Comprehensive Footcare Clinic - Hawaii. Our doctors 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 office located in Honolulu, HI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

When gout in the feet becomes painful, surgery can be necessary to protect joint function. Repeated flares can lead to chronic tophaceous gout, a stage where tophi develop. Tophi are deposits made of uric acid crystals that collect around toes and joints, placing pressure on skin, nerves, and bone. Gout surgery is considered when tophi leak, become infected, cause severe pain, or interfere with walking or wearing shoes with inadequate support. Procedures include removing tophi or crystals to reduce pressure, or fusing small foot joints to control pain and instability. A podiatrist evaluates imaging, circulation, and nerve involvement to determine if surgery is appropriate and to plan care focused on long-term foot health. If you are experiencing chronic gout symptoms, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and options for advanced treatment.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Comprehensive Footcare Clinic - Hawaii. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Honolulu, HI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetic amyotrophy is a rare nerve and muscle condition linked to diabetes that mainly affects the hips, thighs, and legs. Unlike diabetic neuropathy, it involves sudden nerve inflammation and rapid muscle weakness rather than a slow loss of feeling in the feet. Symptoms often include severe pain, increasing weakness, and areas of numbness, along with unexpected stomach pain and noticeable weight loss. As the condition progresses, some individuals may develop foot drop, which is difficulty lifting the front of the foot while walking. Foot drop can disrupt gait, reduce balance, and increase the risk of tripping or falling. Recovery can be gradual and usually requires coordinated medical care. A podiatrist can help by monitoring lower limb strength, evaluating walking patterns, improving foot and ankle stability, and recommending supportive footwear or bracing. If you have diabetes and experience sudden foot weakness, pain, or mobility changes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this 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 Comprehensive Footcare Clinic - Hawaii. 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 office located in Honolulu, HI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.