Items filtered by date: September 2023

Bunions, those bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, are a common foot ailment that can cause pain and discomfort. While many people associate bunions with wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, the causes are often more complex than simply blaming your footwear choices. One of the primary contributors to bunions is genetics. If bunions run in your family, you may be genetically predisposed to developing them. In such cases, the way your foot bones are structured can make you more susceptible. Another significant factor is having improper foot biomechanics. If your feet roll inward excessively when you walk, termed overpronation, or if you have a flat foot arch, the increased stress on the joint at the base of the big toe can lead to bunion formation over time. While wearing tight shoes with a narrow toe box can exacerbate the problem, they generally are not the sole cause of bunions. If you have developed a bunion, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can determine the cause and guide you toward the treatment method that is best for you. 

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Surgical Group. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

Orthotics, typically associated with seniors or athletes, offer benefits for individuals of all ages, including children. Custom orthotics provide essential support for arches, treat various foot conditions, alleviate general foot pain, and prevent future injuries. Children can significantly benefit from orthotics as they provide a sturdy foundation for developing feet. Timely evaluation and intervention are important for children with foot problems, as their feet grow faster than the rest of their bodies. Orthotics are not recommended for children under 3 years old as many common concerns, such as flat feet or misalignment, tend to resolve naturally during early development. However, signs such as abnormal gait, excessive shoe wear, frequent falls, pain, or deformities may warrant orthotic consultation. Orthotics serve as guides, aiding children in their development by correcting alignment, posture, and balance issues while reducing muscle fatigue. These devices are used to gently realign the foot biomechanically, leading to improved foot function and symptom relief. For active children or those involved in sports, timely orthotic intervention is essential to address gait and mobility issues. Children's orthotics should be replaced every 18 to 24 months due to rapid foot growth. If you suspect your child may benefit from orthotics, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss the potential.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Surgical Group. Our doctors 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 Henderson, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot pain is an incredibly common ailment that can affect people of all ages and lifestyles. Understanding the underlying causes can be crucial for finding relief and maintaining healthy, pain-free feet. One of the primary culprits is improper footwear. Wearing shoes that do not fit well or lack adequate support can lead to various foot issues. Overuse and repetitive stress from activities such as running or standing for extended periods of time can strain the foot's muscles and ligaments, causing pain. Additionally, underlying medical conditions including arthritis, diabetes, and plantar fasciitis can contribute to chronic foot discomfort. Poor foot mechanics, such as having flat feet or high arches, may also play a role in having foot pain. Additionally, injuries consisting of sprains or fractures, can result in sudden foot pain. Identifying the specific cause of your foot pain is the first step toward effective treatment and a return to a pain-free, active lifestyle. If you have any type of foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat any foot condition.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Surgical Group. 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 Henderson, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Our feet, the unsung heroes of daily life, deserve more attention than we often give them. Incorporating simple everyday foot care habits into our routines can go a long way in ensuring their comfort and health. Starting with hygiene, washing your feet daily with warm water and mild soap keeps them clean and fresh. Drying them thoroughly, especially between the toes, prevents fungal infections. Moisturizing regularly prevents dryness and cracking, aiding in overall comfort. Trimming toenails straight across and not too short prevent ingrown nails. Opting for well-fitting, breathable footwear provides support and minimizes discomfort. Elevating your feet whenever possible can help to reduce swelling and promote circulation. Practicing these straightforward yet effective methods can lead to happy, pain-free feet that support you every step of the way. If you would like more information about effective everyday foot care tips, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Surgical Group. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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