Toe deformities can affect comfort, balance, and the way shoes fit, but not all bent toes develop in the same way. Hammertoe occurs when the middle joint of the toe bends downward, often leading to rubbing, corns, or irritation on the top of the toe. Claw toe involves multiple joints, with the toe lifting at the base joint and curling downward at the remaining joints, which can create pressure on both the toe tip and the ball of the foot. Additionally, mallet toe affects only the joint closest to the toenail, causing the tip of the toe to point downward and press into footwear. Muscle imbalance, nerve conditions, footwear, and long-standing pressure all play a role. Early recognition helps limit progression and discomfort. If toe changes, pain, or skin irritation develop, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Pima Foot and Ankle Surgery. Our doctors 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 feel free to contact our offices located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Peripheral neuropathy affects the nerves that carry sensation from the feet and legs to the brain. In older adults, this condition often reduces the ability to feel the ground, notice uneven surfaces, or sense pressure changes. When balance feedback is dulled, walking becomes less stable, and the risk of falls rises. Falls in the elderly can lead to fractures, loss of independence, and long recovery periods. Neuropathy may be caused by diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, circulation problems, or certain medications. Symptoms can include numbness, tingling, burning pain, or weakness that worsens over time. Wearing supportive footwear, balance training, and early treatment may help lower fall risk. When numbness, frequent stumbles, or unexplained foot changes appear, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from Pima Foot and Ankle Surgery. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

Feet change quietly with age, often long before pain appears. Skin becomes thinner and drier, making cracks and wounds more likely. Fat pads that once cushioned the foot slowly shrink, increasing pressure on bones and joints. Nails may thicken or curve, turning simple trimming into a challenge. Circulation can slow, which affects healing and temperature regulation. Balance changes may also alter how weight moves through the foot, leading to calluses, soreness, or instability. These shifts are easy to overlook because they develop gradually and feel like a normal part of aging. However, untreated foot problems can reduce mobility and independence, over time. Regular evaluation helps catch concerns early and supports safer walking. If walking becomes uncomfortable or skin changes appear, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for these foot-related concerns.

If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists of Pima Foot and Ankle Surgery. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

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

Athlete’s foot is a common fungal skin infection that affects the feet, especially between the toes. It thrives in warm, moist environments such as sweaty shoes, and public places like locker rooms and public showers. Symptoms may include itching, burning, redness, scaling, cracking, or peeling skin. Some cases cause painful fissures or blisters. Treatment focuses on eliminating the fungus and keeping skin dry. Topical antifungal medications are commonly effective, while more stubborn infections may require prescription therapy. Good hygiene, breathable footwear, and regular sock changes help prevent recurrence. Untreated infections can spread to nails or other skin areas. Chronic moisture exposure, wearing tight shoes, weakened immunity, and shared surfaces increase risk, making early treatment important for comfort, skin integrity, and overall foot health and mobility. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Pima Foot and Ankle Surgery. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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