Hammertoe is a deformity in which one of the smaller toes bends downward at the middle joint, creating a curled or claw-like appearance. It may look raised or misaligned, and may develop corns or calluses where the toe joint rubs against footwear. Symptoms include stiffness, irritation, swelling, and pain that can make walking difficult. The condition may feel tender, cramped, or sore, especially while wearing tight shoes. Causes include muscle imbalance, arthritis, previous injury, or wearing shoes that are too narrow or too short. A podiatrist can begin by examining the affected toe joint, assessing its flexibility, and identifying any underlying biomechanical factors. Once a diagnosis is made, treatment options include footwear changes, protective padding, custom orthotics, or splinting to improve alignment. In more advanced cases, surgery may be recommended to restore function and relieve chronic discomfort. Because early care can reduce symptoms and prevent progression, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of New England Foot and Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Chelmsford and Newburyport, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels, a common issue for diabetics, are often caused by dry skin, reduced circulation, and nerve changes that decrease the ability to feel early symptoms. The heels may look thickened, flaky, or split with visible fissures, and they may feel sore, tight, or tender when standing or walking. In some cases, the cracks can deepen and increase the risk of infection, especially when blood flow is compromised. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight, while causes often involve pressure from standing, open backed footwear, and reduced skin moisture. A podiatrist can assist by assessing sensation, circulation, and skin integrity, followed by a clear diagnosis and a personalized care plan. Treatment options include regular debridement of thick skin, protective dressings, footwear advice, and orthotic support to reduce pressure on vulnerable areas. If you have diabetes and are dealing with painful cracked heels, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

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 New England Foot and Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Chelmsford and Newburyport, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Overuse injuries in young athletes often affect the growing bones and soft tissues of the feet and ankles. Repetitive stress from activities like running and jumping, or wearing shoes that lack adequate support can irritate the growth plates. These are areas of developing cartilage located near the ends of bones. Sever’s disease, which causes heel pain, or navicular stress from strain along the midfoot often occurs in active children. These injuries can lead to limping, swelling, and tenderness that interfere with walking or sports participation. Because their growth plates are still open, the risk of long-term problems increases if these injuries are not properly managed. A podiatrist can evaluate the foot structure, identify overuse patterns, and recommend orthotics, footwear adjustments, or other remedies to relieve strain and protect developing bones. If your active child shows signs of foot or ankle pain after sports activity, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of New England Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Chelmsford and Newburyport, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is caused by fungal organisms that infect the nail bed, often thriving in warm, moist environments like sweaty socks or communal showers. It may look like thickened, discolored nails that are yellow, white, or brown, sometimes with brittle or crumbly edges. In some cases, the nail may lift from the nail bed, causing discomfort or pressure when wearing shoes. Many individuals notice a change in nail texture and thickness before experiencing pain. Toenail fungus progresses slowly and can take months to become noticeable, making early intervention important for effective treatment. A podiatrist can diagnose onychomycosis through careful examination and sometimes laboratory testing to confirm the specific fungal organism. Treatment options include debridement to reduce nail thickness, prescription topical or oral antifungal medications, and advice on proper nail care and hygiene to prevent recurrence. If you notice persistent changes in your toenails, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of New England Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Chelmsford and Newburyport, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.