A hammertoe is a deformity in which one of the smaller toes bends abnormally at the middle joint, creating a curled or hammer-like appearance. It often develops gradually and can become more rigid over time, if left untreated. Common causes include muscle imbalance, improper footwear that crowds the toes, and underlying foot structure issues. Symptoms include pain, corns, calluses, redness, and difficulty wearing shoes comfortably. The affected toe may appear raised at the joint and pressed downward at the tip. A podiatrist can help by evaluating the deformity, recommending proper footwear, providing supportive treatments, and addressing underlying causes. If you have signs of hammertoe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief solutions, while helping you to manage this condition.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Terri Quebedeaux, DPM of Agave Podiatry . 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 offices located in Seguin, LaVernia, Gonzales, and Lockhart, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pain under the big toe can be linked to irritation of the sesamoid bones, two small, round bones located beneath the big toe joint. These bones sit inside a tendon, a strong band of tissue that helps bend the toe. They act like shock absorbers and help support body weight when walking and running. Repetitive pressure from high-impact sports, wearing tight shoes, foot injuries, or certain foot structures can lead to inflammation in this area, known as sesamoiditis. People may notice aching, swelling, tenderness, or difficulty pushing off while walking. Pain may develop gradually and worsen with activity or when wearing shoes that press on the ball of the foot. A podiatrist can examine foot movement and order imaging tests to confirm the cause of pain. Treatment options include footwear guidance, protective padding, and custom orthotics to reduce pressure. If you have pain under the big toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Terri Quebedeaux, DPM of Agave Podiatry . Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

Children’s feet go through many changes as they grow. At birth, the foot is soft and flexible, with bones that are still forming. As a child begins to stand, walk, and run, the structures of the foot gradually strengthen and develop. Muscles, ligaments, and bones work together to support balance and movement. It is common for young children to appear flat-footed because a layer of soft tissue hides the developing arch. As growth continues, the arch usually becomes more visible. However, some children may experience discomfort, unusual walking patterns, or fatigue in their feet or legs. These concerns can sometimes be linked to alignment differences or other structural factors. Early attention can help support healthy development and comfortable movement. If you notice ongoing foot pain, frequent tripping, or uneven shoe wear in your child, it is suggested that you seek an evaluation by a podiatrist to determine the cause and guide appropriate treatment.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Terri Quebedeaux, DPM of Agave Podiatry . Our doctor 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 our offices located in Seguin, LaVernia, Gonzales, and Lockhart, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The foot is a complex weight-bearing structure made of bones, joints, tendons and ligaments that work together to support standing, walking and running. Key bones include the talus, which connects the foot to the ankle, the calcaneus which forms the heel, and the navicular, cuboid, and the cuneiforms that create the arch and midfoot stability. These bones form joints that allow smooth coordinated motion while tendons attach muscles to bone to generate movement. Ligaments provide stability by holding the bones in proper alignment. Together they absorb shock, adapt to uneven surfaces and propel the body forward. A podiatrist can evaluate biomechanical function, treat pain, and prevent injury. If you have foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, and expert tips on how to maintain strong, healthy feet.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Terri Quebedeaux, DPM from Agave Podiatry . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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