Bunions are a foot condition where the top of the big toe angles toward the second toe, and a bony bump forms at the base of the big toe. They often develop due to genetics, wearing tight or narrow shoes, arthritis, or foot stress. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and soreness surrounding the joint, as well as pain while walking or wearing shoes. The skin over the bunion may become thick and callused, and the toe can become stiff or difficult to move. Bunions can worsen over time, if left untreated, leading to increased discomfort and changes in foot shape. A podiatrist can diagnose a bunion through a physical exam and X-rays to assess its severity. Treatment includes custom orthotics, footwear changes, anti-inflammatory medication, and, in more severe cases, surgery to realign the joint. Early care can prevent further progression and ease discomfort. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.
A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.
Why Do Bunions Form?
Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions
How Are Bunions Diagnosed?
Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.
How Are Bunions Treated?
Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
Orthotics or foot inserts
Surgery
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Nampa, ID Fruitlland, ID. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Hammertoe and claw toe are common toe deformities that can cause discomfort and affect mobility. A hammertoe bends abnormally at the middle toe joint, resembling a hammer. A claw toe bends upward at the joint where the toe meets the foot and downward at the middle and end joints, creating a claw-like shape. Symptoms include toe pain, stiffness, corns, calluses, and difficulty wearing shoes. Claw toes may also cause pain in the ball of the foot. These conditions can worsen over time, if not treated. Prevention includes wearing shoes with a wide toe box, avoiding high heels, and doing regular toe stretches. Treatment ranges from padding, orthotics, and splints to targeted exercises or, in severe cases, surgery to correct the deformity. If you notice persistent toe pain or changes in toe shape, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. Early intervention can relieve symptoms, slow progression, and help avoid more invasive procedures later on.
Hammertoe
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors 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 office located in Nampa, ID Fruitlland, ID. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition where the posterior tibial nerve becomes compressed as it passes through the tarsal tunnel along the inner ankle. This can cause pain, tingling, numbness, or burning sensations in the foot and ankle. Common causes include flat feet, swelling, injuries, or conditions that place pressure on the nerve. Symptoms often worsen with prolonged walking or standing and risk factors include obesity, diabetes, and repetitive strain on the foot. A podiatrist can diagnose tarsal tunnel syndrome, provide imaging or nerve testing, and recommend treatments such as orthotics or minimally invasive procedures. If you have pain on the inside of your ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat the problem.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.
Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.
The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.
A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Nampa, ID Fruitlland, ID. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
