Items filtered by date: January 2024

Bunions, a prevalent foot deformity, reveal themselves through an array of recognizable symptoms. One telltale sign is the development of a bony bump at the base of the big toe, often accompanied by redness and swelling. As the tip of the big toe deviates toward the adjacent toes, persistent pain or soreness ensues, particularly when walking or wearing shoes. Corns or calluses may form where the first and second toes overlap, exacerbating discomfort. Limited toe movement and stiffness can impede flexibility. Shoes that once fit comfortably may now cause tightness and discomfort, reflecting the altered shape of the foot. Recognizing these common symptoms is pivotal for timely intervention. By understanding these subtle yet critical signs, individuals can take proactive steps towards managing bunions and nurturing overall foot health. If you have developed a bunion, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can determine what the best relief and treatment is for you.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Toe-tal Family Footcare Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

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 Vista, CA and Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A foot stress fracture, a condition prevalent among athletes and individuals engaged in repetitive weight-bearing activities, is characterized by tiny cracks in the bones of the foot. These fractures often result from overuse, with excessive and repetitive impact on the feet causing structural fatigue. Contributing causes include sudden increases in physical activity, improper footwear, or inadequate training surfaces. Symptoms manifest gradually, beginning with localized pain during activity that subsides with rest. As the stress fracture progresses, the pain becomes persistent, and swelling may occur. Tenderness to touch, particularly at specific points on the foot, is a common indicator. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more severe fractures, potentially requiring prolonged recovery. Understanding the definition, causes, and symptoms of foot stress fractures is essential for individuals engaged in high-impact activities. If you have a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the best treatment.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Toe-tal Family Footcare Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Vista, CA and Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A lump on the bottom of your foot can lead to discomfort and hinder your daily activities. Among the most common causes of bumps or lumps under the foot are plantar fibromas. These bumps are firm and rubbery nodules that form under the arch. While often painless, plantar fibromas can feel like a stone in the shoe while walking. Calluses, resulting from thickened skin, typically around toes and the ball of the foot, are usually painless and are manageable with proper footwear, creams, and orthotics. Bone spurs, caused by abnormal bone growth due to friction or stress can form hard lumps under the foot. They can be painful, especially during walking, and may require exercises, orthotics, medications, or surgery. Plantar warts, caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, result in painful, skin-colored bumps. They respond slowly to treatments like salicylic acid, cryotherapy, or surgery. Additional causes of bumps under the foot include cysts, sesamoiditis, gout, and plantar fasciitis, each requiring specific diagnostic approaches and treatments. If you encounter persistent discomfort or notice a new lump on the bottom of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and a diagnosis. Treatment options will follow.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Toe-tal Family Footcare Associates. Our doctors 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 office located in Vista, CA and Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pickleball, a fusion of ping-pong and tennis, has captivated players of all levels, particularly drawing beginners to its dynamic gameplay. Foot and ankle injuries, prevalent among pickleball players, often stem from muscle strains, ligament sprains, and in some cases broken bones. Notably, seniors over 60 years of age, predominantly male, account for nearly 80 percent of these injuries, often due to undetected underlying health conditions. For those who have been less physically active, easing into pickleball activities is a good way to prevent foot and ankle injuries. Also, incorporating a thorough warm-up routine is paramount, particularly for older players. These exercises may include jogging, jumping jacks, arm circles, shoulder rotations, and leg swings. Coordination drills, like the side-to-side shuffle and cross-step drill, help to enhance agility and reduce the likelihood of sudden movements causing harm. Selecting appropriate gear, including the right footwear for the playing surface, is essential. Specialized shoes for indoor and outdoor play also contribute to injury prevention. Additionally, investing in durable shoes and extra socks can help to prevent blisters and foot injuries. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury as a result of playing pickleball, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from Toe-tal Family Footcare Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Vista, CA and Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, abbreviated TTS, is a condition that often eludes immediate recognition, yet its impact on foot health can be significant. The tarsal tunnel, a narrow passage along the inner ankle, houses the posterior tibial nerve and various blood vessels. When this tunnel becomes compressed or irritated, it gives rise to tarsal tunnel syndrome. Diagnosing TTS involves keen attention to symptoms, which may include a burning or tingling sensation, numbness, or pain along the inner ankle and sole of the foot. As the condition progresses, individuals may experience weakness in the affected foot. Differentiating TTS from other foot issues requires a comprehensive examination, including a thorough medical history, physical assessment, and possibly imaging studies. If you have pain on the inside of your ankle, it is strongly suggested that you seek the advice of a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat tarsal tunnel syndrome.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Toe-tal Family Footcare Associates. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Vista, CA and Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.