Common Foot Conditions

Odds are that you’ve heard of Achilles tendonitis. Maybe a friend or relative contracted it, or one of your favorite athletes was taken out of the game by this painful condition. If you yourself have started to feel the telltale ache of Achilles tendonitis, you may be concerned about treatment, or fear a dramatic rupture of the tendon.

There’s no need to worry. The sooner you see a qualified podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment, the sooner you can start the healing process, and take precautions to prevent the worsening of your condition.

Symptoms

The Achilles tendon is the strongest and largest tendon in the body, connecting the leg to the foot as it stretches from the lower leg to the heel bone.This tendon is crucial to normal walking, as it allows the foot to rise up on the toes. If you are experiencing painful swelling in the back of your foot just above the heel, you may be suffering from Achilles tendonitis.

Achilles tendinitis is, at its most basic level, a strain of the Achilles tendon. The tendon naturally weakens with age, and strains are increasingly likely as you grow older, particularly if you suddenly increase the intensity of your workouts. Achilles tendonitis can also be caused by bone spurs and tight calf muscles.

How Do I Know I Have Achilles Tendonitis?

The sprain causes pain along the line of the Achilles tendon, particularly in the morning. The pain will also usually intensify after you run or participate in sports.

As Achilles tendonitis is best treated early in its development, speak with your trusted podiatrist if you are experiencing pain or swelling along the Achilles tendon. A consultation at our practice will give you the best chance possible for a full recovery.

While they stem from different causes and attack the feet in different ways, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can cause similar symptoms, including joint pain which may affect the feet.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis,­ otherwise known as degenerative joint disease,­ is the most common type of arthritis. It most commonly occurs in the weight bearing joints of the hips, knees, and spine. However, it can also disturb the fingers, thumb, neck, and large toe.

Osteoarthritis tends to affect women more often than men. Most people that are 60 years or older have osteoarthritis to a varying degree. However, it has been diagnosed in individuals in their 20s and 30s, as well.

Symptoms often develop gradually and include:

• Joint aching and soreness.

• Pain after overuse or after long periods of inactivity.

• Bony enlargements in the middle and end joints of the fingers ­ which may or may not be painful.

• Joint swelling and fluid accumulation.

An individual’s chances of developing osteoarthritis are based on several factors including:

• Heredity

• Obesity

• Injury

• Joint Overuse

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Rheumatoid Arthritis is a chronic disease. It causes inflammation of the lining of the joints, and can lead to long­term joint damage which results in chronic pain, loss of function and disability.

Stages of Rheumatoid Arthritis

The disease progresses in three distinct stages:

• First Stage: Swelling of the synovial lining, producing pain, a warming sensation, stiffness, redness, and swelling around the joint.

• Second Stage: Rapid division and growth of cells which causes the synovium lining to thicken.

• Third Stage: The inflamed cells release enzymes that may digest bone and cartilage, often causing the infected joint to lose its shape and alignment. This causes more pain and some loss of movement.

There is no cure for RA and flares in disease activity occur spontaneously. RA can also begin to affect other organs in the body. However, studies have shown that early aggressive treatment of RA can limit joint damage, somewhat eliminating loss of movement, decreased ability to work, and potential surgery.

Currently, RA affects 1.3 million Americans and its cause remains unknown. However, through the use of new drugs, exercise, joint protection techniques and self­ management, more people than ever are living with RA and leading happier, healthier and more fulfilling lives.

Concerned You Have Arthritis?

Both osteoarthritis and RA can make the joints in your feet very painful. If you are concerned that you may be suffering from arthritis, don’t suffer a moment longer! Schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today.

Typically contracted in damp communal areas, such as public pools, locker rooms, or showers, athlete’s foot is a highly contagious, persistent ailment caused by fungal growth on the feet. The most commonly affected area is between the toes.

How Do I Know It’s Athlete’s Foot?

Athlete’s foot often first appears as an itchy red rash, typically beginning between the fourth and fifth toe. If left untreated, the skin may become highly sensitive to the touch. If allowed to progress, the condition can result in white, peeling skin.

It is important to treat athlete’s foot at the first sign of infection, as the body can become vulnerable to other bacterial infections when large cracks occur in the skin. The infection can also be transmitted to other parts of the body through bedding and clothes. Patients with serious cases of athlete’s foot may develop a rash that covers the sole of the foot. Known as “moccasin foot,” this manifestation of athlete’s foot creates extremely scaly, thick and rough skin on the bottom of the foot.

Athlete’s Foot Treatment

There are antifungal athlete’s foot treatments available over the counter, but it can benefit you to have your condition diagnosed by your trusted podiatrist first, especially if it has come back a few times.

If your athlete’s foot does not respond to over-the-counter treatments within 2­4 weeks, you should also make an appointment with your podiatrist. Prescription­-strength treatments may be required to eradicate this pesky problem.

Brachymetatarsia is characterized by a shorter than usual metatarsal bone, one of the five long bones in the feet that end in the toes. This causes one of the toes to be ‘pulled back’ from the rest, or overlap the others. If more than one of the long bones of the foot is affected, it is known as brachymetapody. The disease is often congenital, but can also be caused by an injury to the growth plate of the short toe.

Symptoms and Treatment

If you suffer from brachymetatarsia, you may find it difficult to properly balance or smoothly transfer weight across the toes when walking or running. To correct this problem, extra padding can be used in the shoe to protect the short toe from excessive friction and pressure. Orthotics may also be used to properly distribute the weight across the foot while in motion. A surgical graft of bone to lengthen the short toe may also be an option in some cases.

If you suffer from brachymetatarsia, our podiatry professionals can help you find the right treatment option for you based on your unique situation. Contact us today to learn how we can help you regain a greater sense of balance and a smoother range of motion.

Bunions, or ‘hallux valgus,’ are a common foot condition characterized by a ‘bump’ on the side of the foot, typically just below the big toe. As this bump grows larger, it can force the big toe over the second toe, causing pain and difficulty walking.

What Causes Bunions?

The definitive cause of bunions has yet to be identified. While some studies have shown a connection with wearing high-­heeled shoes, bunions may also be caused by inherited genetic defects in the structure of the foot, or by arthritis.

Bunion Treatment

Bunion treatment does not always involve surgery. Instead, your podiatrist may suggest lifestyle changes, such as wearing more comfortable and supportive footwear, adding shoe inserts to your shoes, or losing weight. Icing your feet can reduce inflammation, as can basic over­-the-counter anti­inflammatories.

If your podiatrist does decide that surgery is the best answer to your bunions, there are a number of different surgical options available. Some will even allow you to walk immediately following your surgery.

Concerned about your bunions? Want to learn more about your treatment options? Contact our practice and schedule your appointment today.

The human body is incredibly adaptable, and corns and calluses are just one way your body defends you. While slightly different from each other, corns and calluses stem from the same root cause. They are both thick patches of skin that develop to protect you when the skin is subjected to excessive friction and pressure, but they can become problems themselves, particularly for diabetics or anyone with compromised circulation.

Signs Your Corn or Callus is a Problem

Identifying a troublesome corn or callus is relatively simple ­ if they are bothering you or inhibiting your life in any way at all, see your podiatrist!

In some cases, the callus or corn may become sensitive or start to crack. Consistent foot care can help keep calluses supple and prevent them from growing large enough to be a problem. There are many products available to make foot care easier, including foot soaks and pumice stones.

For those with severe or recurring problems, the occasional pedicure may be in order. Of course prevention is always the most effective form of treatment. If you are experiencing calluses, take care to protect your feet, wear supportive footwear that fits correctly, and adjust your posture so your weight is distributed evenly across the entire foot. Contact us today to learn more about calluses and what you can do to manage them.

Risk of falling due to poor balance when walking.

Flatfoot is a common disorder in which the arch of one or both feet flattens. It is easily identified, as the entire sole of the affected person’s foot touches the floor when they stand. While the condition itself is typically painless, it can cause problems elsewhere in the body due to the way it alters the alignment of the leg.

One of the most common varieties of the disorder is flexible flatfoot, which begins in childhood. The arch will appear when the child is sitting down or on tiptoe, but disappears as soon as they put full standing pressure on the foot. While many children grow out of flexible flatfoot, for some in perpetuates into adulthood. It is also possible to acquire flatfoot as an adult, either by injury or as a result of diseases such as arthritis or diabetes.

Treatment

Flatfoot treatments are usually conservative, including orthotics and supportive footwear. Surgery is possible, but is typically performed to correct the cause of flatfoot ­ mending a torn tendon, for instance. Lifestyle changes, such as weight loss, can also be helpful.

If your arches have collapsed, make an appointment to see your podiatrist as soon as possible. Flatfeet may not be initially painful, but can cause serious wear and tear if left untreated.

Sometimes known as “pump bump” because of its prevalence among women who wear pump-style shoes, Haglund's deformity can occur in one or both of the feet. If you are suffering from Haglund's deformity you will most likely have noticed a bony enlargement at the back of the heel. This inflammation is caused when the bursa, a fluid­-filled sac between the Achilles tendon and your heel bone, becomes irritated. Other signs of Haglund's deformity include pain where the Achilles tendon and the heel meet, swelling, and redness.

While genetic factors influence your likelihood to develop Haglund’s deformity (high arches, a tight Achilles tendon), stiff shoes are also a major risk factor.

Treatment for Haglund’s Deformity

Although surgery is an option, non-­surgical treatment options are plentiful. Utilizing anti-inflammatory medication can reduce swelling and pain at the site of the problem. Other conservative treatments include:

• Stretching

• Heel lifts and pads

• Shoe modification

• Physical therapy

• Orthotic devices

• Immobilization

Contact your podiatrist today to lean which treatment options may work best for you.

Hallux Rigidus is a condition that affects the joint at the base of the big toe. If you suffer from this condition, you will notice pain and stiffness. The symptoms are often worsen while walking, running, or when the weather is cold or damp. Individuals with this condition may notice swelling and inflammation around the joint.

If the condition worsens, the big toe joint may become painful when at rest, and bone spurs may develop. To lessen the pain, sufferers will often begin to limp, which can lead to pain in the ankles, knees, hips and lower back.

What Causes Hallux Rigidus?

Technically a form of degenerative arthritis, hallux rigidus wears out the cartilage in the joint that it affects. It may be caused by improper alignment of the feet or genetic abnormalities in the foot structure.

Treatments available for this condition include shoe modification, anti inflammatory medication, orthotics, physical therapy and surgery. As with many foot problems, learning and practicing correct alignment is often helpful. Surgery is recommended as a last resort. Contact us today to determine which treatment option might work best for you.

Characterized by a bend in one or both joints of any but the big toe, hammertoe is a common podiatric issue. In early stages the toe can still be extended, but will be bent upward in its resting state. If left untreated, however, the condition will worsen progressively.

Signs and Symptoms

Hammertoe is typically straightforward to identify on a simple physical examination. Symptoms include:

• A contracted toe or toes.

• Corns between toes or on the top, side or end of the affected toes. Corns are a buildup of skin caused by friction at the contact point between the toe and shoe.

• Calluses on the bottom of toes or on the ball of the foot. Calluses are rough, dry patches of dead skin that has built up.

• Pain or irritation when the toes come into contact with the shoe.

Hammertoes and their symptoms generally worsen over time, as the friction between the foot and footwear becomes more severe. Over time, they can become rigid, and open sores may form.

Treatment

If you are suffering from hammertoes, it is important to seek help sooner rather than later, as they will not heal without treatment. Treatment options include:

• Changing footwear

• Padding the corns and calluses that form

• Trimming the corns and calluses

• Custom orthotics

• Anti ­inflammatory medications

• Splinting the affected toe.

Surgery may also be recommended in more severe cases.

You don’t need to suffer with hammertoes. Contact our office today, and we can begin down the road to treatment with you!

Ingrown toenails, where the toenail begins to grow into the skin surrounding it, often begin as nothing but a nuisance. Unfortunately, they can lead to infection if not properly treated. If you take good care of your ingrown toenail at home, however, you may be able to prevent your condition from worsening.

What Causes Ingrown Toenails?

Ingrown toenails are common, and can be caused by everything from trauma to genetic factors. One common risk factor is easily controlled for: have you ever heard that you should cut your toenails straight across, not at an angle? However nice a rounded edge might look for sandal season, cutting your toenail in this way can encourage your nail to grow into the flesh of your toe.

Symptoms and Treatment

Ingrown toenails are characterized by pain, swelling, redness and a feeling of warmth in the affected toe. If the nail digs into the flesh around the nail and causes the skin to break, bacteria can enter, resulting in an infection. The infection can increase the level of pain in the toe and create additional problems.

As long as an infection has not yet set in, caring for an infected toenail is straightforward. You may take an over­-the-­counter anti­-inflammatory for the pain. You can also soak your foot a few times a day, keeping it otherwise nice and dry, and wear comfortable shoes that aren’t too narrow. Of course, if you have a pre­-existing condition, such as diabetes, you should see your podiatrist at the first sign of an ingrown toenail. Whatever you do, do not attempt to cut the nail free your own! This can worsen the infection, or create one where there wasn’t one before.

If your ingrown toenail doesn’t improve within a few days, make an appointment with your trusted podiatrist. We may prescribe antibiotics may be prescribed to manage the infection, and outpatient surgery may be necessary to remove the nail.

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the toenails or fingernails. This ailment causes fingernails or toenails to thicken, discolor, disfigure, and split. At first glance, onychomycosis appears to be only a cosmetic concern. However, without treatment, the toenails can become abnormally thick, forcing the toe to press against the inside of the shoes, causing pressure, irritation, and pain. If the disease continues to progress without treatment, onychomycosis may interfere with standing, walking, and exercising.

Spotting Foot Fungus

Onychomycosis is easily identified by its appearance, but there are similar conditions and infections that can cause similar symptoms. Foot fungus should always be diagnosed by your podiatrist before you begin treatment.

Risk factors making one more susceptible to onychomycosis include:

● Family history

● Advancing age

● Poor health

● Trauma

● Showering in communal showers

● Wearing shoes without good airflow

Treatment

Treatments for onychomycosis vary depending on the individual and the severity of the case. Recent breakthroughs have yielded new treatments which can cut traditionally long treatment times dramatically. To learn more, schedule an appointment with your trusted podiatrist.

Heel pain is an extremely common and potentially disruptive affliction that has many possible causes. These include stress fractures, arthritis, nerve irritation, cysts, tendinitis, and, most often, plantar fasciitis.

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the tissue that connects the heel to the toes becomes inflamed. This inflammation causes pain on the bottom of the heel that can continue to grow in intensity over time.

Risk factors include:

● Flat feet
● High arches
● Non­supportive shoes
● Obesity

Treating Plantar Fasciitis

There are many conservative treatment options for plantar fasciitis, including a stretching regimen, icing, footwear modifications, anti ­inflammatory medications and weight reduction to lessen impact on the feet.

More severe cases may be treated with additional padding and orthotic devices, the use of a walking cast, night splints and physical therapy. Surgery to detach the plantar fascia is an option, but only if all other treatments have been ineffective.

If you are experiencing heel pain, schedule an appointment with your trusted podiatrist today. The sooner you get treatment, the sooner you can walk without pain.

Plantar warts are benign (noncancerous) growths that occur on the sole, heel, or ball of the foot. Most plantar warts are diagnosed based on their appearance. They are generally rough and spongy, and most are gray, brown, or yellow with dark dots in the center. While you likely heard as a child that these are the ‘seeds’ of the wart, they are not ­ the little black dots are simply dried blood in your capillaries.

What Are Plantar Warts?

Plantar warts are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV) invading the body through the skin on the bottom of the feet, typically through cuts or breaks. The virus often is present on contaminated surfaces, such as the tile floors of public locker rooms, showers, and swimming pools.

Some individuals are more prone to the virus that causes plantar warts than other people. Risk factors include:

● Repeated HPV exposure. For example, walking barefoot in public locker rooms and common public areas.

● Having a weakened immune system.

When first diagnosed, individuals often feel a “lump” on the bottom of the foot when standing,similar to having a stone in their shoe. If left untreated, plantar warts can grow up to 1 inch in circumference and may spread into clusters (called mosaic warts). In severe cases, they cause a change in gait or posture that results in leg or back pain.

If you suffer from plantar warts, schedule an appointment with our practice. We can diagnose and treat your warts to remove them fast, and advise you on how to protect against them in the future.