A hammertoe is when there is a deformity of the middle joint of a toe and the toe bends up or down abnormally, resembling a hammer. Hammertoe typically happens to the second, third, or fourth toes, but can also occur on the pinky toe. This condition happens from an imbalance in muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the middle joint of the toe. It can be caused by wearing shoes that do not have enough room in the toe box, foot type and structure, or injury to the foot. A hammertoe can become painful, making it difficult to walk, and it may be hard to find shoes to comfortably accommodate the abnormality. Depending on the severity of the hammertoe, stretching and strengthening exercises can help straighten the toe and minimize discomfort. Such exercises include towel toe curls, where one sits in a chair with their feet flat on a towel placed on the floor. One then can curl their toes and try to scrunch up the towel followed by extending the toes to push the scrunched towel forward. It is suggested that this be done 10 times and three times a day. Another exercise is sitting on the edge of a chair or a bed, placing the affected leg on the opposite knee, and bending the toes toward the body and then away from the body. Each position should be held for 30 to 40 seconds, and three to five sets should be done three times a day. If you are having a problem with hammertoe, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide additional exercises and assess the proper treatment for you.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Larry Cohen of New York City. Our doctor 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 Midtown, Manhattan . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

There is a narrow passageway in the ankle that is called the tarsal tunnel. The tibial nerve runs through this tunnel and can become damaged if an injury has occurred or if there is consistent pressure on it. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this condition can include a numbing sensation, or it may feel like it is burning with sharp, shooting pains. Existing medical conditions may lead to getting tarsal tunnel syndrome. These can include arthritis, flat feet, or diabetes. The pain is often felt in the ankle, and a diagnosis is needed to properly confirm tarsal tunnel syndrome. In addition to examining the affected foot, a test may be performed which is called Tinel’s test. This is done by gently tapping on the tibial nerve which will tingle if this condition is present. There may be an MRI that is taken that is successful in determining if there is a bony growth or mass that can cause tarsal tunnel syndrome. Effective treatment methods can include frequently elevating the feet, and possibly wearing a brace or a splint that can limit mobility. If you have this type of pain in your ankle, please consult a podiatrist for a correct diagnosis and treatment plan.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Larry Cohen of New York City. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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

Practicing proper foot care is imperative for soccer players as their feet are their primary tools for playing the game. The feet are subject to wear and tear and must be tended to if effectiveness and efficiency are sought. Parents who have kids who play soccer should make sure to check their children’s feet regularly and encourage their children to let them know if they see or feel something amiss with their feet. Routine foot care includes washing the drying the feet daily, making sure there is no excess moisture left between the toes. Feet should be washed as soon as possible after exercise, and if this is to be done in public showers or locker rooms, shower shoes should be worn to prevent fungal infections. Shoes and cleats should fit properly. Padding can be added to support the heels. Toenails should be trimmed regularly and stretching and strengthening exercises should be done to keep the feet and ankles strong and flexible. Performing such care will go a long way in preventing scrapes, athlete’s foot, blisters, and other foot and ankle-related soccer injuries. If your child has sustained a foot or ankle injury from playing soccer, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Dr. Larry Cohen from New York City. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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