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Bunions—a very common foot disorder—are bony protrusions on the joint of the big toe, which cause it to point towards the second toe. Bunions can be very painful and are often genetic, or caused by wearing shoes that are too tight. Bunionettes, or tailor’s bunions, are a form of bunion that appears on the outside of the pinky toe. Bunions and bunionettes are painful, and can cause swelling, redness, and soreness around the joint, along with limited range of movement. Bunions that are left untreated can cause deformities or misalignments in the foot and may require surgery to correct. One of the best ways to prevent bunions and bunionettes from forming is to wear comfortable, low-heeled shoes with a rounded toe-box, which will allow plenty of room for your toes to spread out and move freely. Contact a podiatrist who can offer preventative measures against bunions, or treat them successfully if they do form.
If you are suffering from bunions, contact Thomas J. Rizzo DPM of Step Ahead Foot Care. Our doctor 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?
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Geneseo, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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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.
The majority of broken toes occur when it is stubbed against a piece of furniture, or when a heavy object is dropped on it. Immediate symptoms often include bruising, severe pain and discomfort, and it can be difficult to walk. A common treatment solution is referred to as buddy taping, and this is often used for mild fractures. This is accomplished by taping the affected toe to the toe next to it. This can help to provide the stability that is necessary for effective healing. It is beneficial to elevate the foot as frequently as possible, and healing may be accelerated when walking is limited. If you have broken your toe, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can determine what the best treatment is for you.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Thomas J. Rizzo DPM from Step Ahead Foot Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What to Know About a Broken Toe
Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.
Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Geneseo, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Shin splints are a painful, yet sometimes avoidable, common form of shin pain among athletes. Shin splints—also known as Medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS)—are usually associated with runners and gymnasts, and occur when the muscles that attach to the tibia, or shin bone, are overused and become inflamed. Athletes can sometimes get shin splints if they increase training too rapidly, or don’t warm up properly or wear proper shoes. The pain associated with shin splints can cover the entire inner part of the shin, and unlike exertional compartment syndrome—a more serious condition often mistaken for shin splints—usually goes away with proper self-care. A podiatrist can recommend a treatment/management plan which may include massaging or icing after activity, orthotics, physical therapy, anti-inflammatories, and switching to more appropriate footwear.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Thomas J. Rizzo DPM of Step Ahead Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Geneseo, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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