(727) 527-1249Blog
All About Tailor’s Bunions
A bunion is a bump that is bony in nature and typically develops on the side of the big toe. Sometimes, however, bunions that are smaller may develop at the base of the pinky toe. When this occurs, the smaller bunion is known as a tailor’s bunion. Although this name might seem strange, it has an interesting story. The tailor’s bunion derives its name from the fact that hundreds of years ago, it was very common for tailors to spend the entirety of the working day sitting with their legs crossed. As such, it was easy for the sides of their pinky toe to rub against the floor while they worked. As a result, they developed a tailor’s bunion, also referred to as a bunionette. These hard bumps can cause pain and swelling, and may need attention if symptoms worsen. For more information, contact a podiatrist today.
If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein 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 Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Effects of Aging on the Feet
As a car gets older, its parts start to wear out. This is also true with the feet. Foot problems begin to mount as one ages. This can be attributed to wear and tear, along with a number of other factors. The skin on the feet, along with other parts of the body, begins to lose its elasticity, creating an environment for infections or injuries. The fatty heel pad thins out, causing a loss of cushioning that may increase the likelihood of heel pain. Tendons and ligaments can become looser, leaving one open to strains and sprains. Further, the size of the foot may change as the feet naturally widen with age. It’s suggested that older adults check their shoe size before purchasing new footwear. Shoes that are too tight can invite foot and toe maladies. Finally, certain medical and health conditions, such as diabetes, obesity, and arthritis can affect the circulation of blood to the lower legs, feet, and toes. This can develop into neuropathy, which if not monitored, can lead to serious infections. As an older adult, it is a good idea to make an appointment with a podiatrist to check out the health of your feet.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
- Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
- Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
- Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
- Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
- Shoes that don’t fit properly
- Pressure sores
- Loss of circulation in legs & feet
- Edema & swelling of feet and ankles
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Foot Conditions May Be Helped by Wearing Orthotics
Many people understand that having foot pain is not normal and will often look to wearing custom-made orthotics to find relief. Orthotics are described as inserts that are worn inside the shoe that may help to correct an abnormal walking pattern. Orthotics can enable the angles of the feet to normalize as well as help make daily activities easier to complete. Additionally, they can help the patient's feet to absorb shock which may reduce pressure on existing sore spots. Orthotics are known to help correct imbalances in the feet that can affect the entire body. Some of the ways a patient may notice they qualify for orthotics include one shoe wearing out faster than the other shoe, experiencing chronic heel pain, the feet excessively pointing in or out, and the toes are not straight. If you have foot conditions that need to be corrected, please consult with a podiatrist who can determine if wearing orthotics are right for you.
If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Are Orthotics?
Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.
Over-the-Counter Inserts
Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.
Prescription Orthotics
If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.
If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Understanding Stress Fractures of the Feet
A tiny hairline crack in a bone is known as a stress fracture. It is caused by repetitive stress in the metatarsals, or long bones of the feet. It is common for athletes who do a lot of pounding on their feet, such as runners, basketball players, and tennis players. Among the causes or contributing factors to the development of stress fractures are shoes that do not provide ample cushioning, running or pounding on hard surfaces, tight muscles or tendons, and increasing the time or intensity of the particular activity. Stress fractures often go unnoticed at first, because the pain usually dissipates after stopping the activity. Also, stress fractures are difficult to detect, as they may not always show up on X-rays. The number one way to treat a stress fracture is to stop the activity. If you have further questions about stress fractures, please consult a podiatrist who can perform imaging tests to examine your feet and provide further treatment options.
Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein 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 Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Which Ankle Bones Are Affected With an Ankle Fracture?
Broken bones in the ankle can occur due to an injury or a mishap. When there is a break in the ankle joint, the bones can separate into pieces. The tibia or fibula are often the most affected because they support the weight of the body. This type of fracture may cause severe discomfort while walking and may be difficult to do for several months. A broken ankle typically occurs from rolling or twisting the ankle beyond its normal range of motion, such as from unexpectedly stepping off of a curb. Common symptoms that many people experience with an ankle fracture can include bruising, and swelling, and it can be tender when touched. An X-ray is generally performed which is successful in determining the extent of the fracture and can then be treated accordingly. There are several methods to treat a broken ankle, consisting of wearing a walking boot, having a cast put on, and elevating the affected foot as often as possible. If you have endured a fractured ankle, it is strongly advised that you speak to a podiatrist who can effectively access the foot and offer the best treatment options for you.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
- Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
- Swelling around the area
- Bruising of the area
- Area appears to be deformed
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Why High Tops May Cause Foot Problems in Kids
High top sneakers were once worn primarily by basketball players to protect their ankles from getting injured. The jury is still out among experts on whether high tops are beneficial or detrimental to the athletes they were designed to protect. But now, high tops have become a fashion statement and are worn by many children who do not participate in sports. It is thought by some that wearing high tops can actually decrease the child’s development of ankle strength, flexibility and stability. On the other hand, some experts believe that wearing low top sneakers actually helps to develop ankle strength without exterior support. It is believed by some that continued wear of high tops by young people can increase the likelihood of restricted mobility in the ankle, as well as the weakening of ankle tendons, muscles, and ligaments. All this, they say, may add up to an increased chance of injury. For more information on the footwear that is most beneficial for your child, please consult with a podiatrist.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Pain in the Ball of the Foot
Of the twenty-six bones in the feet that allow you to walk, five are called metatarsals. These are the long bones that connect the toes to the ankles and help to control the movement of the leg and foot. When one or more of these bones causes pain it is known as metatarsalgia. Conditions that contribute to metatarsal pain include trauma, overuse, arthritis, bone or foot structure, and wearing high heels. Common symptoms of metatarsalgia include a feeling of walking on a pebble, a shooting or burning ache, and a general aching under the ball of the foot. Symptoms may worsen when standing, walking, running, or flexing the toes. Metatarsalgia can occur in one or both feet and range from mild to severe. One risk factor is high heels, which force the toes into a tight space and increase the weight on the metatarsals. In addition, being overweight, aging, and running for long periods are thought to be risk factors as well. If you are experiencing continued pain in the ball of the foot, it is a good idea to seek the help of a podiatrist for treatment options.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein 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 Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
What Is Sever’s Disease?
Sever’s disease is a common overuse injury that affects the heels in growing children. This typically occurs in children ages seven to 14 when their bodies are undergoing rapid growth. Pain may develop due to inflammation where the Achilles tendon inserts into the growth plate located in the heel bone. Activities, like running and jumping can exacerbate the stress on the heel bone’s growth plate and cause pain. As might be expected, this affliction is most often seen in young athletes who participate in sports including soccer, gymnastics, football, and basketball. Such pain often goes away with rest and worsens the activities that caused it. It can be in one or both heels and a child might start limping or walking on their toes to avoid putting pressure on their heels. Resting the affected foot/feet is the best course of action. If the pain does not subside after a short period of time, take your child to a podiatrist who can properly diagnose the condition and treat it appropriately.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
What Is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
People who have the foot condition known as tarsal tunnel syndrome often have symptoms that consist of numbness or a sensation that feels like pins and needles in the heel of their foot. This feeling may spread to the arch of the foot and can cause pain and discomfort. The condition is defined as the posterior tibial nerve becoming compressed and trapped inside the ankle. Patients who have flat feet may experience tarsal tunnel syndrome and this may result from the foot rolling. Specific medical conditions like osteoarthritis and diabetes may contribute to the onset of this ailment. Mild relief may come from taking certain medications including anti-inflammatory pills, which are typically prescribed. Performing exercises that can strengthen the foot once the inflammation has subsided may help to make it easier to accomplish daily activities. If you suffer from this ailment, please confer with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the best treatment techniques for you.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein 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 Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
What is a Plantar Fibroma?
The foot condition known as plantar fibromatosis can also be referred to as Ledderhose disease. It is a rare condition where a nodule is embedded in the arch of the foot. It is often benign despite the pain and discomfort associated with it. One noticeable symptom of a plantar fibroma includes a firm lump in the arch of the foot, which may gradually increase in size. It can be caused by enduring a foot injury, frequently participating in running and jumping activities, or from taking certain medications. Having an MRI taken is often successful in diagnosing this condition and a biopsy may need to be performed. The pain may diminish when anti-inflammatory medications are taken as well as when orthotics are worn as they distribute the body’s weight more evenly. In severe cases when the plantar fibroma has significantly grown, surgery may be an option for permanent removal. If you suffer from this condition, it is advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can effectively guide you toward correct treatment techniques.
A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Plantar Fibroma
A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.
What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?
While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.
What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?
There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.
Treatment and Prevention
A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:
- Steroid injections
- Orthotics
- Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump
Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
More...
Foot and Ankle Injuries in Ballet Dancers
Foot and ankle injuries are sometimes an unavoidable part of a dancer’s life, and particularly so for ballet dancers. Overuse injuries are more common in ballet than traumatic injuries, as they can be attributed to repetitive movements and extraordinary stress on bones and soft tissue structures. Achilles tendinopathy is one example of this type of injury. This is often the result of excessive stress on the Achilles tendon due to exaggerated positions such as demi-plié, demie point, and en pointe. Flexor hallucis longus tendinopathy is an overuse injury that can occur from repeated pushing off from the big toe. The pirouettes ballet dancers perform put an incredible amount of pressure on the forefoot, which can cause a nerve disorder called Morton’s neuroma. Landing after jumps and rolling the foot down from demie point places repeated tension on the plantar fascia tissue on the sole of the foot. This can cause the tissue to become inflamed or torn (plantar fasciitis). A podiatrist has immeasurable experience in diagnosing and treating foot and ankle conditions of all kinds, and should be consulted for any such injury a dancer or athlete may incur.
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 Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein 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 Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Arthritis in the Big Toe
The big toe plays an important role in our ability to walk and remain balanced. The place where the big toe connects to the foot is called the metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP). This joint, like many others in the body, is often the target of osteoarthritis because it gets a lot of wear and tear. Symptoms include pain (especially while active), stiffness, swelling, and a shifting of weight when you walk (change in gait). Occasionally, the big toe pushes toward the other toes, forming a bunion. Stiffness in the joint can result in a difficulty walking, which then can lead to the formation of calluses, corns, and hammertoes. The risk of developing osteoarthritis increases as you age, but other factors such as genetics, obesity, and prior joint injury can contribute to it. As with any progressive disease, osteoarthritis in the big toe can only become worse. Getting treatment from a podiatrist as early as possible is a good idea. X-rays can often detect the extent of the damage to the MTP joint and help the doctor to determine treatment options. Among them are certain prescription medications, changes in footwear, and in severe cases, surgery. For more information on osteoarthritis of the big toe, please consult a podiatrist.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Causes Toe Pain?
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Trauma
- Sports injury
- Wearing shoes that are too tight
- Arthritis
- Gout
- Corns and calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Blisters
- Ingrown toenails
- Sprains
- Fractures (broken bones)
- Dislocations
When to See a Podiatrist
- Severe pain
- Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
- Signs of infection
- Continued swelling
- Pain that prevents walking
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Two Types of Foot Therapy
Foot massages are a common form of relaxation, and many people choose this type of foot therapy to find relief from aching feet. It may come from standing all day or from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. An additional method of therapy is reflexology and there are differences between the two. Reflexology is practiced by applying pressure to specific areas of the foot which can stimulate the central nervous system and can positively affect energy pathways. Different organs in the body are linked to pressure points on the feet and may have healing effects. Getting a foot massage involves massaging the entire foot without centering on certain areas. Some of the health benefits from either form of foot therapy can consist of improved circulation, relaxation, stress relief, and reduced muscle tension. Some patients find relief from headaches and back pain and can enjoy an overall sense of well-being. If you are interested in learning more about the benefits of different types of foot therapy, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.
Foot therapy is often necessary for those recovering from either foot deformities or foot injuries. If you have concerns regarding therapy, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Most Common Injuries
People who are active or athletes are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is often important to take part in physical therapy in order to quickly get back on the right track.
What to Do When Injured
Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.
During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. Physical therapy often involves:
Basic stretching and twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.
Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.
Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Extra Weight May Equal Foot Pain
If you are obese, which is classified as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, you may be putting undue stress on your feet and ankles. Studies show that obese individuals are more likely to have foot pain than those who are not obese. Some conditions that obesity may contribute to include flat feet, plantar fasciitis and other heel pain, hammertoes, and bunions. Also, being obese can increase your chances of having certain diseases that can negatively impact your feet such as gout and diabetes. Aside from trying to lose weight, you can relieve pain and reduce the negative effects of obesity on your feet by choosing better footwear and using custom orthotics in your shoes. Custom orthotics can help to relieve pressure points, support your arch, and distribute your body weight more evenly across your feet. A podiatrist can help you with these proactive measures as well as treat any painful conditions that excess weight may have caused in your feet.
Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Obesity and Your Feet
Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.
Problems & Complications
Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.
Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.
Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.