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What Can Be Done About Morton’s Neuroma?
If you experience a burning sensation and pain between the 3rd and 4th metatarsal bones in the foot, you may have developed a Morton’s neuroma. Though termed a neuroma, which means tumor, it is actually the thickening of the nerve that runs between the two bones and can cause a numbing of the toes above them. Many people also say it feels like there is a pebble in their shoe. This condition is more likely to occur in women and in people between 40 and 50 years old. It is most common in those who have worn high heels or very tight shoes over many years, including ballet dancers and runners. Non-surgical treatments include changing to wider footwear with lower heels and more cushioning and wearing inserts in your shoes. If the pain continues or gets worse, it is wise to consult a podiatrist who will examine your foot and explain other treatment options. Included are injections to numb the area or reduce the pain, custom orthotics and, in some cases, surgery.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.
What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?
- Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
- Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
- Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities
Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Rheumatoid Arthritis May Be Causing Your Ankle Pain
Ankle pain can sometimes be caused by rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This autoimmune disease which attacks healthy tissue can often start in the joints of the feet and ankles. When RA attacks the lining in the ankle joint, it becomes inflamed and damaged, along with ligaments and cartilage surrounding the joint. Over time, this deterioration weakens the bones of the ankle, causing them to rub together. This can cause pain in the ankle (which worsens as the disease progresses), stiffness, inflammation, difficulty standing, tenderness, redness and warmth, lack of balance, and more. People with RA in their ankles may also develop corns and bunions, hammertoes, bursitis, pain in the ball of their foot, a collapsed arch, and the shape of their foot may change. Symptoms outside of the feet include a loss of appetite and weight, low grade fever, fatigue, and weakness in the muscles. Genetics, obesity, and smoking can increase your risk of getting RA. If you are experiencing ankle pain, make an appointment with a podiatrist as soon as possible. Along with a physical examination and review of your medical history, your podiatrist may need blood tests, X-rays, ultrasounds, and MRIs to properly diagnose RA and begin a course of treatment to slow its progression and help manage its symptoms.
Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.
Symptoms
- Swelling and pain in the feet
- Stiffness in the feet
- Pain on the ball or sole of feet
- Joint shift and deformation
Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Good Foot Care Can Be Easy
In our increasingly fast-paced world, many people feel that they don’t have any extra time to devote to their foot health. However, looking after your feet doesn’t have to be a time-consuming hassle. A few quick and easy things that you can do include keeping your feet clean and dry, moisturizing your heels to prevent cracks, and checking your feet regularly for anything unusual, such as injuries, discoloration, swelling, or pain. If you have otherwise healthy feet, then you could spend as little as 10 minutes per week giving them a little extra care to keep them healthy. People with pre-existing conditions, such as diabetes, may require more foot care. To learn more about caring for your feet, please consult with a podiatrist.
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 Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. 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 Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Arthritis Can Cause Pain in the Feet and Ankles
If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
The Possible Causes of Heel Pain
There are many possible causes of heel pain, with plantar fasciitis (an inflammation of the connective tissue on the bottom of the foot) topping the list. Injuries during exercising or while playing sports can also cause heel pain, which can sometimes occur if you have not first properly stretched your calves, ankles, and feet. Running too frequently, training on hard surfaces, suddenly turning your heel inwardly, or coming down hard or landing awkwardly on your heel can all lead to painful injuries of the heel. Wearing shoes that do not sufficiently absorb shock or support the heel can also contribute to heel pain, as can bone spurs on the heel, swelling of the bursa sac at the back of the heel (bursitis), and conditions that affect the Achilles tendon (which attaches to the heel bone). Pain in the heel should not be ignored. A podiatrist can diagnose your heel pain to determine its cause and create a treatment plan to treat it accordingly.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes
- Wearing non-supportive shoes
- Weight change
- Excessive running
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Causes and Caring for Blisters on the Foot
There are many causes of blisters, which are small sacs of fluid that form on the body. One of the main causes is new, tight, or ill-fitting shoes. The harder areas of the shoe can rub against your heels, soles, and toes, and if the friction is repeated for long periods, blisters often form. These become very painful, especially if you continue the activity. Excessive moisture or perspiration, which happens more frequently during warmer weather, may also cause blisters in runners. There are a few precautions you can implement to prevent blisters. Keep the feet dry and put powder on them to reduce sweating, as well as wearing moisture-wicking socks. Wearing softer, more flexible shoes can reduce the chance of a blisters formation and ceasing the activity will allow the skin time to heal on its own. If a blister pops open, is extremely large, or won’t heal, it is a good idea to seek the professional care of a podiatrist who can safely drain the area and help stave off infection.
Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.
What Are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
Symptoms
(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)
- Bubble of skin filled with fluid
- Redness
- Moderate to severe pain
- Itching
Prevention & Treatment
In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Signs and Symptoms of Gout
If you feel pain in the big toe that is accompanied with a burning sensation or reddened skin, you may be afflicted with a condition known as gout. The pain associated with gout tends to be the strongest when you are resting or lying down, but it may subside when you are actively moving around. Eventually, untreated gout can make it more and more difficult to perform everyday tasks that include standing, walking, or climbing stairs. Gout is a type of arthritis that occurs when there is too much uric acid in the body (hyperuricemia). Needle-like crystals form in the joints causing them to become red, swollen, or inflamed. This condition typically begins in the base of the big toe but can spread to other joints like the ankles and knees. Symptoms can last from one day up to a few months, but with the elimination of certain foods and other lifestyle changes, they can be managed. If you think you have gout it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist as soon as possible to receive a proper diagnosis and a medical treatment plan.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Gout Pain Can Be Managed
Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
What Are the Symptoms of Foot Drop?
Foot drop is a neuromuscular disorder in which a person has difficulty raising the front of their foot up while walking, an ability known as dorsiflexion. This causes the toes to drag on the ground while walking. To compensate for a loss of dorsiflexion, some people develop an unusual pattern of walking in which they lift their knees higher to raise the foot, sometimes slapping their foot back down on the ground with each step. This is known as a steppage gait. In addition to these symptoms, people with foot drop may also have tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness in the foot. If you are experiencing symptoms of foot drop, it is strongly suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist.
Neuropathy
Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.
What Is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.
Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:
- Numbness
- Sensation loss
- Prickling and tingling sensations
- Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
- Muscle weakness
Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.
Treatment
To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.
Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Am I at Risk of Developing Fungal Toenails?
Fungi that reside on the body can become overgrown over time in, or on, the toenail. This can result in an infection known as onychomycosis. You can also pick up the infection through contact with someone who has it. Further, this fungal infection can be transmitted through contact with toenail clippers, nail files or pedicure instruments at a salon where fungi are present. Older adults — whose drier nails make it easier for fungi to enter the nail — are more prone to developing fungal infections, as well as those who wear fake nails, use public swimming/showering areas, have diabetes, poor circulation, a nail injury, or a weakened immune system. People whose feet are confined to warm, moist environments where fungi thrive (i.e., dark boots or sneakers) are also more at risk of developing fungal nails. Fungal nail symptoms include brittle, thickened, discolored or distorted nails, which can sometimes be accompanied by odor or pain. While some people try to treat fungal toenail infections at home, the fungi are very stubborn and resilient. Professional treatment from a podiatrist is often necessary to quickly and completely eradicate the infection, and prevent it from recurring.
For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.
Antifungals & Deterrence
Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.
Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
More...
Differences between Hammer Toes, Claw Toes, and Mallet Toes
Hammertoes, claw toes, and mallet toes all result from the toes getting bent into odd positions. They usually look odd or unsightly, and they typically affect the smaller toes. When the toe is bent downward and the middle joint raises up, this is known as a hammertoe. This condition frequently affects the second toe and sometimes coincides with a bunion. Claw toes occur when the toes curl up due to the middle joints being bent down, and they often affect all four smaller toes at the same time. When the joint closest to the tip of the toe bends downward, it forms what is known as a mallet toe. Wearing shoes that are too tight is most commonly blamed for these conditions arising, but they can also be linked to diabetes or arthritis. These toe ailments can be quite painful, so patients who are struggling with one would be wise to consult with a podiatrist who can help find a treatment option and determine if surgery is necessary.
Hammertoe
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.
Symptoms
- Pain in the affected toes
- Development of corns or calluses due to friction
- Inflammation
- Redness
- Contracture of the toes
Causes
Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible
Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur
Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe
Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe
Treatment
Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it
Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used
Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?
Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.
Typical Forms of Heel Pain
The most common form of foot and ankle pain is heel pain. This condition can be caused by mechanical issues in the foot, wearing improperly fitted or inappropriate shoes, and overusing the heel in physical activities. Some typical forms of heel pain include: plantar fasciitis (when the tissue on the sole of the feet becomes inflamed), heel spurs (when wear on the heel causes calcium to deposits on the heel bone), sever's disease (when the growth plate in the heel of a growing child becomes irritated from wear), heel bumps (bony protrusions which form at the back of the heel typically due to ill-fitting shoes), Achilles tendinopathy (repeated stress where the Achilles tendon meets the heel), heel neuritis (nerve entrapment on the bottom of the heel), and heel bursitis (when the Bursa sac of fluid which protects the Achilles tendon gets irritated due to excessive stress). If you have any pain in your heel, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who will perform a physical exam and run tests to determine what is causing your heel pain and how best to treat it.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes
- Wearing non-supportive shoes
- Weight change
- Excessive running
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Plantar Fasciitis: A Common Form of Heel Pain
Plantar fasciitis is the most common type of heel pain that podiatrists treat. This condition occurs in the plantar fascia, which is a long band of tissue on the sole of the foot that spans from the heel through the arch to the front of the foot. Because of its location and key role in walking, running, and jumping, the plantar fascia can become overly stretched, stressed, and even torn, causing it to become inflamed and painful. This is known as plantar (sole of the foot) fasciitis (inflammation of the fascia). Some factors that contribute to plantar fasciitis include obesity, working on your feet or standing for extended periods of time on a regular basis, having tight calf muscles, flat feet, or high arches. Contact a podiatrist for relief from the pain of plantar fasciitis.
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Excessive running
- Having high arches in your feet
- Other foot issues such as flat feet
- Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
- Being on your feet very often
There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.
Prevention
- Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
- Maintain a healthy weight
- If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain
There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
