A hammertoe deformity causes one of the smaller toes to bend at its middle joint instead of lying flat. The second toe is affected most frequently, although the condition can develop in other toes. It begins when the muscles and tendons that control the toe become unbalanced. This imbalance pulls the toe into an abnormal position. Possible causes include an inherited foot structure, a previous injury, or arthritis. A bunion can also push against the second toe and increase the risk of hammertoe. The joint can remain flexible at first but can later become stiff and fixed in place.

Symptoms usually develop when the bent toe rubs against the inside of a shoe. Patients can experience pain, redness, and swelling around the raised joint. A corn can form on top of the toe, while a callus can develop beneath the front of the foot. These thickened areas of skin result from repeated pressure and friction. Pain can become worse while walking or when wearing shoes with a narrow toe box. A podiatrist can examine the toe, test its flexibility, and check for related problems. Weight-bearing X-rays can show the position of the bones and the severity of the deformity.

Treatment depends on whether the toe is flexible or rigid and how much discomfort it causes. A podiatrist can recommend shoes with a deep, wide toe box to reduce pressure. Custom orthotics can improve the way weight is spread across the foot. Professional padding or splinting can also protect irritated skin and help position a flexible toe. The podiatrist can safely treat painful corns and calluses without damaging healthy tissue. Early care can help prevent increasing stiffness, skin sores, and continued pain. If you are in pain from a hammertoe deformity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Emil Babayev, DPM from New York. 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Midwood and Kensington in Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Sandals can feel cool and convenient, but the wrong pair can leave the feet sore after a day of walking or standing. Paper-thin soles provide little protection from repeated contact with hard floor or pavement. This can strain the heels, arches, and balls of the feet. Sandals that lack arch support can also place extra stress on the band of tissue along the bottom of the foot. The result can be heel pain or plantar fasciitis, which is irritation of that tissue. Blisters and calluses can also develop when stiff edges or rough straps rub against the skin.

Loose sandals create another problem, because the toes must grip the footbed to keep each sandal in place. This repeated gripping can tire foot muscles, shorten a person’s stride, and change the way the body moves. Foot pain can then spread into the ankles or lower legs. Sandals that are too flexible fail to steady the arch. Meanwhile, more rigid soles limit natural foot movement. Poor sizing adds further risks. Toes that extend past the front can be injured, and heels that hang over the back receive less protection. Worn sandals can also lose cushioning, tread, and support.

A podiatrist can examine the feet and identify the source of pain. During the evaluation, the podiatrist looks for tenderness, skin irritation, and limited joint movement to see if foot structure increases pressure inside the sandals. The podiatrist can recommend sandals with moderate cushioning, a stable arch area, and adjustable straps. A secure heel or ankle strap reduces toe-gripping and supports a steadier walking pattern. The entire foot should rest within the footbed without crowding or hanging over its edges. Patients with diabetes, poor circulation, or reduced feeling in their feet should seek podiatric guidance about sandal selection. If you have foot pain after wearing sandals, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief tips, and guidance on choosing appropriate sandals.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Emil Babayev, DPM from New York. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

High heels can create a polished look, but they also place extra stress on the feet. As heel height increases, more body weight shifts toward the front of the foot. This added pressure affects the toes and the ball of the foot with every step. A narrow toe box squeezes the toes together, making normal movement more difficult. High heels that lack proper support also reduce stability and increase strain on muscles and joints. This raises the risk of bunions, corns, and calluses, along with increasing the chances of an ankle sprain. Some people notice burning, numbness, or swelling after long periods of standing or while walking in high heels.

Choosing high heels carefully helps reduce stress on the feet without giving up style. A proper fit is one of the most important features. High heels that are too tight or too loose increase pressure and friction. Open-toe styles provide extra room for the toes and reduce crowding. Lower heels place less weight on the front of the foot than very high styles. A wider heel also improves balance and spreads weight more evenly. A less dramatic slope from heel to toe places less strain on the foot and ankle. Small design changes can make high heels more comfortable while helping protect the feet.

When foot pain continues from wearing high heels, a podiatrist can identify the cause and recommend the most effective treatment. An examination can determine whether pain comes from irritated joints, strained soft tissues, or changes in foot structure. Treatment includes custom orthotics, padding to reduce pressure, and care for corns or calluses. A podiatrist also treats bunions, hammertoes, and other problems before they become more severe. If you have foot pain after wearing high heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief tips and guidance on choosing high heels suited to your needs.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Emil Babayev, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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

Flat feet in children, often referred to as pediatric flatfoot, is a condition in which the arch of the foot does not fully develop. This causes the entire sole to come into contact with the ground. This is common in infants and younger children, as the arch typically forms gradually as muscles strengthen and bones mature. In many cases, flat feet resolve naturally with growth. However, when the condition persists or begins to cause symptoms, it may affect posture, balance, and overall movement patterns. A clear understanding of flat feet can help parents determine when observation is appropriate and when professional evaluation is needed. The symptoms of flat feet in children can range from mild to more noticeable concerns. Some children remain symptom free, while others may report aching in the feet, heel discomfort, or fatigue after activity. Parents may observe that the ankles roll inward, a pattern known as overpronation, or that shoes wear unevenly over time. Children may also avoid physical activities that involve running or prolonged standing due to discomfort. These signs can indicate that the structure of the foot is influencing stability and alignment.

There are several causes and risk factors associated with pediatric flatfoot. Genetics is one of the most common influences, as children may inherit flexible foot structures or low arches from family members. Additional contributors include ligament laxity, muscle weakness, or differences in bone development. Excess body weight can increase stress on the feet and contribute to arch flattening. In some cases, flat feet may be linked to underlying neurological or developmental conditions that affect coordination and muscle control.

While flat feet are often a normal part of early development, ongoing symptoms should not be overlooked. Early recognition and evaluation can support proper alignment and help prevent long-term strain on the feet and lower extremities. If your child is experiencing discomfort or difficulty with movement, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and guidance on appropriate care and management.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Emil Babayev, DPM from New York. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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