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Foot Problems

Toe Problems

Ingrown Toenail

Ingrown toenails are nails that have grown into the soft skin that surrounds the nail bed. In many cases, it is the corner of the nail that curves downward into the skin. However, the entire side of the nail may grow into the skin as well. Many ingrown toenails can be resolved at home by frequently soaking the foot in warm water. However, some ingrown nails do not resolve with home remedies and instead require medical attention. Did you know… that ingrown toenails are a very common condition? In fact, 1 in 20 people get one every year. Both genders are susceptible to ingrown toenails, but women are most likely to develop the condition – often due to the strain placed on feet from narrow, pointed, high-heeled shoes. In most cases, it is the big toe affected by an ingrown nail. Frequently Asked Questions How do I know if I need ingrown toenail treatment? You may need to visit an urgent care center if you have severe pain or swelling around one of your toenails. The toe may also be reddened and tender near the ingrown nail. It is important to seek medical attention for an ingrown toenail to ensure […]

Chronic Ankle Instability

What Is Chronic Ankle Instability? Chronic ankle instability is a condition characterized by a recurring “giving way” of the outer (lateral) side of the ankle. This condition often develops after repeated ankle sprains. Usually the “giving way” occurs while walking or doing other activities, but it can also happen when you’re just standing. Many athletes, as well as others, suffer from chronic ankle instability.

Heel Pain

The heel is the largest bone in the foot and responsible for bearing the weight of the entire body. Many people develop heel pain at some point in their lives, whether on the underside or back of the heel. In most cases, heel pain is not a symptom of a serious underlying health condition. However, it can affect a person’s quality of life, including the ability to stand, walk or exercise without discomfort. Did you know… many conditions that cause heel pain can be avoided by wearing properly fitted shoes? Many people wear the wrong types and sizes of shoes, resulting in crowding and poor foot support. To get the right fit, shop at the end of the day rather than in the morning, and always try on shoes before buying to ensure you have plenty of toe room. Avoid high heels when possible, and look for shoes with an adjustable fit. Frequently Asked Questions What types of conditions can cause heel pain? Heel pain can be caused by many different conditions, some more common than others. Often, patients who visit a podiatrist for heel pain are suffering from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis. However, other conditions can also cause […]

Ankle Pain

The ankles are complicated joints comprised of several different bones, tendons and ligaments. Together, these components facilitate movement and bear the weight of the entire body. However, ankles are also prone to conditions that cause pain and discomfort. In many cases, ankle pain goes away on its own – especially when it is the result of a minor injury. But sometimes medical intervention is necessary to relieve discomfort and restore mobility. Did you know… Did you know that sprains are the most common cause of ankle pain? In fact, ankle sprains are responsible for more than four out of five ankle injuries. This usually occurs when the foot rolls inward, forcing the ankle to twist toward the ground. Many people experience pain, swelling and bruising caused by tears or inflammation in the underlying ligaments. However, many ankle sprains begin to improve within one to two weeks. Frequently Asked Questions What types of conditions cause ankle pain? Ankle pain may be caused by one of many different conditions. Examples include arthritis, sprains, gout, bone spurs, tendonitis, and fractures. Ankle pain may also be caused by a condition known as ‘flatfeet’, in which the feet are missing arches. When should I see […]

Sports Foot Injury

An athlete’s feet are under a lot of stress, making them especially susceptible to injury. When athletes push their bodies to perform, they put pressure on the feet. From training to competing, people who actively participate in athletic activity are constantly putting themselves at risk for injury. At our podiatry office, we aim to treat sports foot injuries as quickly and efficiently as possible, helping athletes to recover and return to their usual activities in as little time as possible. Did you know… that the feet must sustain up to 20 times a person’s body weight during certain sports activities? Perhaps that is why approximately 25 percent of all sports-related injuries involve either the foot or ankle. Nearly all sports and activities increase the risk of foot and ankle injuries, including: Basketball Baseball Dance Cheerleading Soccer Track and field races Weight lifting Wrestling Frequently Asked Questions What are some of the most common foot injuries found in athletes? Athletes can injure any part of their feet though certain types of injuries are more prevalent than others. Examples include: Plantar fasciitis Achilles tendonitis Sprains Strains Overuse injuries How do I know if I have a foot injury? Some sports-related foot injuries are […]

Warts

Warts are growths caused by viruses beneath the skin. They can appear anywhere on the body – including the feet. When warts appear on the soles of the feet, they are known as ‘plantar warts’, which are hard and may even grow inward due to pressure on the heels and balls of the feet. Though foot warts are not a serious health threat, they are often a source of discomfort and embarrassment. Did you know… that plantar warts are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)? Despite there being more than 100 strains of HPV, foot warts are only caused by a few of them. The virus is usually contracted by walking on contaminated surfaces, where the virus comes in contact with tiny breaks in the skin. You can avoid getting foot warts by wearing shoes when walking in gym locker rooms or near swimming pools. Frequently Asked Questions What are the symptoms of foot warts? Many people mistake foot warts for calluses. Those that grow on the bottom of the feet may be hard, grainy and flat. Warts that grow on other areas of the feet, such as the toes, are typically soft and raised. In many people, foot […]

Bunions

Bunions are bone deformations that form on the foot where it joins the big toe. They develop over time, gradually getting bigger and sticking out from the rest of the foot. Bunions are caused by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors, with many people predisposed to developing them due to a weakened foot structure. Others get bunions because of chronic stress on the big toe or a chronic condition like arthritis. Did you know… that wearing the right shoes can help prevent bunions and prevent existing ones from worsening? Shoes should never crowd the toes and should support the natural shape of your feet. It is also wise to purchase shoes with a wide toe area, allowing plenty of space between the toes and the end of the shoes. Frequently Asked Questions What are the symptoms of a bunion? Bunions are easily identified by the large, protruding bump they cause at the base of the big toe. Usually, the big toe begins to angle away from the body, potentially leading to redness, soreness and swelling. The skin may also become thickened and develop calluses. Should I see a podiatrist about my bunions? Many people live with bunions for years […]

Flatfeet

Flatfeet is a condition defined by the lack of an arch on the inside of the feet. Instead, the foot is flat and touches the floor entirely while standing. Often, the condition causes no symptoms, allowing most people with flatfeet to live normal, pain-free lives. However, some people have pain or discomfort associated with flatfeet and may experience knee or ankle complications as a result of the condition. Did you know… that some people are born with a genetic predisposition to flatfeet, while others develop the condition later in life? For people who develop flatfeet over time, the most common risk factors are obesity and aging. These conditions can lead to a weakening of the tendon that supports the arch, allowing it to fall over time. Other risk factors include foot and ankle injuries, as well as some chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Frequently Asked Questions How do I know if I or my child has flatfeet? Adults can identify flatfeet by a lack of arch on the inside of the feet. In children, the condition is less obvious, as arches normally develop over time during childhood. In fact, it is normal for infants and toddlers to have flatfeet. Many […]

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot condition in which one or more toes is abnormally bent. These foot deformities occur as a result of injury or long-term wear of poorly fit shoes. Though anyone can develop hammertoe, it is especially common in women who have a second toe that is longer than the big toe. Over time, hammertoe may cause discomfort, pain, corns and calluses, not to mention permanent stiffening of the tendon in the affected toe. Did you know… that hammertoe may be prevented by wearing properly fitting footwear? It is important to choose shoes that are roomy near the toes allowing, at least, a half-inch of space between the shoe and the tip of the longest toe. Keep in mind that the risk of developing hammertoe increases with age, so selecting properly fitted footwear is even more important over time. Frequently Asked Questions What are the symptoms of hammertoe? Hammertoe is easily identified by the abnormal bend it causes in one or more toes. The bent is found in the middle joint and usually affects the toe closest to the big toe. The symptoms are very similar to mallet toe, which instead causes an abnormal bend in the joint closest to […]

Plantar Fascitis

Plantar fasciitis is a condition defined by inflammation of the plantar fascia – a thick tissue that connects between the heel bone, across the bottom of the feet and to the toes. Healthy plantar fascia tissues absorb shock in the arch of the foot. But tension on the tissues can cause tearing, leading to inflammation. This inflammation usually causes throbbing pain in or near the heel. Did you know… that athletes are particularly susceptible to developing plantar fasciitis? Though the condition can affect anyone, it is especially common in runners and people who participate in sports that require running or jumping. Additional risk factors for plantar fasciitis include being overweight or wearing shoes with inadequate foot support. Frequently Asked Questions How do I know if I have plantar fasciitis? People with plantar fasciitis often complain of heel pain – especially pain that is worse in the morning after waking or after sitting or standing for long periods of time. If you have a recurring stabbing pain in or near your heel, contact our office to schedule a consultation. Your podiatrist can diagnose plantar fasciitis with a simple exam and imaging tests. What types of treatments are available for plantar fasciitis? […]