August 2025

 Hammertoe is a common problem that causes one of the smaller toes to bend abnormally at the middle joint, often leading to pain, stiffness, or pressure from shoes. Hammertoe typically develops over time due to muscle imbalance in the foot or from wearing shoes with a narrow toe box or that lack adequate support. In some cases, foot issues like flat feet or bunions also contribute to hammertoe formation. In the early stages, hammertoe may still be flexible and has been found to improve with changes like wearing custom orthotics or more supportive footwear. However, if the toe deformity becomes rigid or painful, surgery may be needed to correct the joint position. Based on the severity and progression of the deformity, a podiatrist can recommend appropriate treatment, including surgery, when necessary. If you have developed a hammertoe that is causing persistent pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our doctors of Coral Desert Foot & 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 St. George and Kanab, UT, and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Preventing blisters is key to maintaining foot comfort, especially for active individuals. Symptoms include a painful, fluid-filled sac on the skin caused by friction or ill-fitting footwear. To avoid blisters, choose shoes that fit well and break them in gradually. Moisture-wicking socks and blister prevention products like moleskin or blister pads can reduce friction. If a blister does develop, resist the urge to pop it as it can increase the risk of infection. Instead, keep it clean and covered with a bandage. Persistent or severe blisters may require attention from a podiatrist, who can provide expert care and guidance. They can recommend appropriate footwear, assess underlying causes, and offer treatments like draining the blister safely to promote healing and prevent complications. If you foot blisters, is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and prevention tips. 

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our doctors of Coral Desert Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. George and Kanab, UT, and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The fast, high-impact nature of tennis places significant strain on the feet. Rapid side-to-side movements, abrupt stops, and quick takeoffs can result in problems such as ligament sprains, overuse injuries, stress fractures, and painful heel or arch conditions. Hard playing surfaces can intensify pressure on the joints, and shoes lacking proper support may leave feet vulnerable. Continuous directional changes also challenge ankle stability, increasing the risk of injury. Choosing tennis footwear designed for cushioning and strong lateral support is an important step in protection. Strengthening and stretching the lower legs and feet can further enhance resilience. Players should watch for early signs of discomfort and rest when needed to prevent long-term issues. If soreness, swelling, or persistent foot pain occurs after playing, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our doctors of Coral Desert Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in St. George and Kanab, UT, and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Preventing workplace falls begins with proper training and awareness. Safe use of ladders includes placing them on stable surfaces and maintaining three points of contact while climbing. Scaffolding must be properly assembled with guardrails and secure platforms. In construction and other high-risk jobs, wearing the correct footwear and keeping walkways clear of debris are essential. Reducing slips and falls involves cleaning spills quickly, using slip-resistant mats, and wearing shoes with good traction. A podiatrist can recommend supportive footwear or orthotics to improve stability and help address foot pain that may affect balance. If you have sustained a foot and ankle injury while working, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you toward effective fall prevention tips.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our doctors from Coral Desert Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. George and Kanab, UT, and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.