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Bunions can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling near the big toe joint. While bunions do not go away on their own, gentle exercises may help reduce discomfort, improve flexibility, and slow their progression. One helpful move is the toe stretch where you simply pull the big toe gently into alignment and hold for several seconds. Another is the towel scrunch. This involves placing a towel flat on the floor and using your toes to scrunch it toward you, which can strengthen the foot muscles. Try toe spreading by placing small spacers or your fingers between your toes and holding for…

Foot pain is not just an adult problem. Children and adolescents often experience discomfort in their feet, which can affect their ability to participate in sports, play, and daily activities. Growth spurts, flat feet, and overuse injuries are common causes. Conditions like Sever’s disease, which involves inflammation at the growth plate in the heel, frequently occur during periods of rapid growth. Wearing improper footwear can also lead to pain, especially if shoes do not provide enough support or cushioning. Ignoring foot pain in young people may result in long-term issues, including changes in walking patterns and posture. Early evaluation and…

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to severe pain and inflammation. This occurs when the body produces too much uric acid or struggles to eliminate it efficiently. Mushrooms are considered harmful for individuals with gout because they contain purines, which break down into uric acid. High purine intake can lead to elevated uric acid levels, triggering painful gout flare-ups. The big toe is often the most affected joint, as uric acid crystals tend to accumulate in cooler areas of the body. This can cause intense swelling, redness, and…

Big toe pain is a problem that can make walking uncomfortable and limit your daily activities. Several conditions can cause pain in the big toe joint. One of the most common is arthritis, which leads to joint stiffness and swelling. Another cause is bunions, where the joint becomes enlarged and painful over time. Gout, a type of arthritis, can also trigger sudden, sharp pain in the big toe, often at night. Turf toe, a sprain of the big toe joint, is common in athletes. Wearing tight shoes or high heels can make these problems worse. Early treatment, such as wearing…

Cracked heels and fissures can develop from prolonged dryness, excessive pressure, and underlying health conditions. When the skin on the heels loses moisture and elasticity, deep cracks may form, making walking painful and increasing the risk of infection. Standing for long periods, wearing unsupportive footwear, and exposure to harsh environments can worsen the condition. Certain medical conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, and poor circulation can slow healing and lead to complications. If the cracks become deep, bleed, or show signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or drainage, medical attention is necessary. Seeking care from a podiatrist early can prevent…

Custom orthotics can help alleviate foot pain, improve alignment, and support mobility, but not everyone needs them. If you are experiencing persistent discomfort, instability, or issues related to gait, a podiatrist can determine if orthotics are the right solution. Before your appointment, take note of your symptoms, when they occur, and what activities make them worse. Bring your most frequently worn shoes and any previous orthotics if you have them. Your podiatrist will assess your foot structure, walking pattern, and overall biomechanics, and may recommend custom orthotics tailored to your needs. Be prepared to discuss your lifestyle, activity level, and…

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

The foot is a complex structure made up of bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments that work together to support movement, especially during running. The arch of the foot plays a vital role in absorbing shock and providing stability while running. The toes, including the big toe, help in pushing off the ground with each stride, while the metatarsals act as a base to support the foot’s weight. The heel, or calcaneus, absorbs impact during the landing phase and helps with propulsion. Tendons such as the Achilles tendon connect the calf muscles to the heel, allowing for proper foot movement and…

Walking barefoot is a natural activity that can have numerous benefits for children. When kids walk without shoes, they allow their feet to develop and strengthen naturally. The muscles and ligaments in the feet work more effectively when they are not restricted by footwear, promoting better balance and coordination. Barefoot walking also helps improve posture as it encourages children to align their bodies properly. Furthermore, walking barefoot allows children to connect with their environment, providing sensory feedback that can stimulate cognitive and emotional development. It also promotes the proper formation of the arches in the feet, reducing the risk of…

Lateral ligament injuries occur when the ligaments on the outside of the ankle are stretched or torn, often due to a sudden twist, fall, or awkward landing. These injuries are common in athletes, especially those involved in sports requiring quick direction changes, such as basketball, soccer, pickleball, and tennis. However, anyone can experience a lateral ligament injury from an unexpected misstep or walking on uneven ground. Symptoms include swelling, bruising, pain, and instability in the ankle. Mild sprains may heal with rest, compression, and elevation, while more severe tears might require bracing or targeted exercises to restore strength and flexibility.…

Early treatment of an infected foot wound is important for effective healing and preventing serious complications. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, warmth around the wound, persistent pain, pus, or a foul odor. Systemic symptoms like fever or chills may also occur. If you suspect an infection, it is important to keep the wound clean and dry. For individuals with diabetes or weakened immune systems, infection risks are higher, making vigilant care even more important. This is where a podiatrist can help. A podiatrist specializes in foot care and can assess the wound, provide antibiotics if necessary, and recommend advanced…

Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

A broken foot can happen due to trauma like falls, sports injuries, or car accidents, as well as repetitive stress from activities such as running. It can affect anyone, but those at a higher risk include athletes, older adults, and individuals with osteoporosis. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty walking, and deformity. If you suspect a broken foot, avoid putting weight on it and elevate it to reduce swelling. Immobilize the foot as much as possible and seek medical attention promptly. A podiatrist can diagnose the injury using imaging like X-rays and recommend treatment, which may include casting, bracing, or…

Everyday foot care is essential for overall well-being as it affects mobility, posture, and daily activities. Neglecting foot health can lead to a variety of common foot problems, which can severely impact quality of life. Bunions are painful bumps that form at the base of the big toe, often caused by improper footwear or genetic factors. Plantar fasciitis, a condition marked by inflammation in the bottom of the foot, causes heel pain and discomfort, especially after prolonged standing or walking. Ingrown toenails occur when the edges of toenails grow into the surrounding skin, leading to pain and infection. Athlete's foot…

Laser treatment has become a popular option for treating fungal toenails, offering both advantages and limitations. One of the key benefits is its non-invasive nature, as the laser targets the fungus without the need for medications or surgical procedures. This method is typically painless, with minimal recovery time required. Additionally, laser treatment is effective in reaching the fungus deep within the nail, making it suitable for chronic or severe cases. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. Laser treatment can be costly and may not be covered by insurance, making it an expensive option for some individuals. Furthermore, multiple sessions…

Hallux valgus, more commonly known as a bunion, is a deformity that causes a bony bump to form at the base of the big toe. This bump pushes the toe inward, causing it to lean toward the other toes. As the condition progresses, it can lead to pain, swelling, redness, and difficulty finding comfortable shoes. In some cases, the big toe may shift out of alignment, which can result in additional issues like hammertoes. Bunions are often caused by an inherited foot structure, wearing tight or high-heeled shoes, and repetitive stress on the feet. Conditions like flat feet or arthritis…

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

First walking shoes are an important milestone in a baby's development, offering both support and comfort as they take their first steps. There are several types of first walking shoes designed to meet the needs of growing feet. Soft-soled shoes are ideal for early walkers as they provide flexibility while offering protection against rough surfaces. These shoes allow babies to feel the ground, which helps with balance and coordination. Hard-soled shoes are better suited for toddlers who are more confident walkers, offering stability and durability for outdoor adventures. Another option is sandals with secure straps, which provide breathability and comfort…

Ingrown toenails occur when the edges of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. Certain activities, like ballet or football, can increase the risk of developing ingrown toenails. In ballet, the pressure from pointe work can cause the toenails to compress against the shoe, while football players often wear tight cleats that crowd the toes. These tight shoes, combined with repetitive movements, can lead to nail damage and ingrown toenails. Other causes include improper nail trimming such as cutting them too short or rounding the edges, injury, or genetic factors that make the toenails more…