Items filtered by date: November 2023

Hammertoe is a condition where the second, third, or fourth toe bends at the joint due to muscle or ligament imbalance, often caused by factors like injury, wearing poor footwear, or arthritis. Surgery can be an option for severe cases causing pain or balance issues, but it may not be suitable for those with poor circulation, increased surgery risks, or infections. Successful treatment depends on the severity of the hammertoe. Options may include tendon transfer, joint resection, or fusion, with the latter two involving cutting tendons and ligaments to straighten the toe. Tendon transfer reroutes tendons to straighten the toe, while joint resection and fusion involve bone alterations and the use of pins or screws. If you have a hammertoe and it is causing discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss whether surgery is an option for you.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Braden Jenkins, DPM from The Ridge Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Idaho Falls, ID . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Bunion surgery, or bunionectomy, is a medical procedure aimed at correcting a bunion, a painful and often unsightly deformity that affects the base of the big toe. Bunions develop when the metatarsophalangeal joint, where the big toe connects to the foot, becomes misaligned. This misalignment causes the big toe to lean toward the smaller toes and forces the metatarsal bone to protrude, forming a bony bump on the side of the foot. Bunion surgery is considered when conservative treatments, such as changes in footwear, orthotic devices, and pain management, fail to provide relief. The surgical procedure to address bunions typically involves realigning the metatarsophalangeal joint and removing the bony prominence. Surgeons may use various techniques depending on the severity and type of the bunion. The goal of the surgery is to reduce pain, improve foot function, and correct the deformity. After the surgery, a recovery period is necessary, during which patients are advised to follow post-operative care instructions diligently. Understanding bunion surgery and its potential benefits and risks is vital when considering this procedure to address the discomfort and limitations associated with bunions. If you have a bunion, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can determine if bunion surgery is the correct treatment choice for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Braden Jenkins, DPM of The Ridge Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a condition where fatty deposits build up in the arteries, restricting blood flow to muscles and organs. This poor circulation affects about 6.5 million Americans over 40 years of age. During physical activities such as walking or climbing stairs, muscles need more blood and oxygen. If arteries are clogged due to PAD, these muscles may hurt because they are not getting what they need, but the pain typically subsides with rest. However, PAD is more than just about muscle pain during activity. It can affect the overall quality and length of life, limiting how far or long one can walk, and it may increase the risk for heart attack and stroke. Despite its seriousness, PAD often goes unrecognized. People at risk for PAD typically include those who have leg pain, individuals over 70 years of age, and those over 50 years old who have diabetes, or a history of smoking. Recognizing and getting treatment for PAD is crucial for maintaining health and preventing more serious complications. If you have any of the aforementioned symptoms, or belong to a high-risk group, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Braden Jenkins, DPM from The Ridge Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that results from inflammation and irritation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes. The hallmark symptom of plantar fasciitis is sharp, stabbing heel pain, which can sometimes radiate along the arch or sole of the foot. Some individuals may experience periodic, temporary flares of intense heel pain, while others may have persistent, chronic discomfort in their feet. This pain is often most intense in the morning or after extended rest, and it typically eases within 10 minutes of walking or stretching. However, it can worsen toward the end of the day due to prolonged standing or activities, like climbing stairs and intense exercise, which can stress the plantar fascia. Inflammation of the plantar fascia can lead to visible swelling and redness around the heel and arch of the foot. Even when not visually swollen, the affected area can feel tender and puffy when touched. Additionally, the condition can affect the Achilles tendon, leading to pain. Tightness in the plantar fascia also can cause the foot to roll inward while walking, increasing stress and tension on the Achilles tendon. If you believe you may have plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist, a medically trained foot doctor, who is able to help you manage this painful condition.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Braden Jenkins, DPM  from The Ridge Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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