Research has indicated that the foot condition known as Morton’s neuroma is generally simple to diagnose. The common symptoms that many people experience with this ailment can include a tingling sensation between the second and third toes, or the fourth and fifth toes. It may begin after wearing specific types of shoes, or from walking or standing for an extended period of time. Many people can develop this condition from wearing high heels. This can be a result of a lack of adequate space for the toes to move freely in. A clicking feeling and sound may be felt in the ball of the foot, and it can feel uncomfortable. Many people often equate this feeling with the sensation of stepping on a marble, or having an out of place seam from a sock. Additionally, the toes can separate with a large Morton’s neuroma, and medical attention is needed. The toes may become numb, and it can be quite painful to walk. If you have any of these symptoms, it is advised that you place yourself under the care of a podiatrist who can use various conservative methods, or possibly even perform surgery, to treat Morton’s neuroma.
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 Coastal Foot & Ankle Wellness Center, LLC. 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 one of our offices located in St. Augustine, and Palatka, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Ingrown toenails are often painful. They typically develop due to wearing shoes that do not fit correctly and this can force the nail to grow into the surrounding skin. Furthermore, they can occur by improperly trimming the toenails or result from a toe injury. In addition to pain, this condition can be accompanied by swelling, redness, and pus that may drain from the affected toe. Some patients can find mild relief by soaking the foot in warm water and using a piece of cotton to push the skin away from the nail. This is considered to be temporary, and will most likely need professional attention soon after. An ingrown toenail may be more common in adults than children as well as people who have curved or thick nails. If you have symptoms of this condition, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Coastal Foot & Ankle Wellness Center, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
Bacterial infections
Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
Genetic predisposition
Prevention
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. Augustine, and Palatka, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Osteoarthritis or OA is a common form of arthritis that can affect any joint in the body. This type of arthritis generally increases with age, and those who are obese, have a genetic predisposition to it, or a prior joint injury are at higher risk. Cartilage in joints wear down, bones are exposed, and they can rub against each other. The base of the big toe is a common site for OA. The joint degenerates and the body may attempt to repair the condition by growing more bone. This reaction can create bony protrusions called bone spurs that appear as a visible bump or callus on the big toe joint. The excess bone growth can lead to fusion of the joint and it can become fixed/non-bending. The joint of the big toe may also look inflamed and swollen. It becomes painful and hard to walk if one cannot bend their toe, and if spurs or bunions develop, they can push uncomfortably against shoes. Usually, OA in the big toe is worse after inactivity, such as when first arising in the morning or after prolonged sitting. Wearing shoes that have sufficient room in the toe box and stiff soles, obtaining pad inserts or arch supports, using ice on the big toe, maintaining a healthy body weight, and/or taking over-the-counter pain relievers can help but there is no cure for OA. If you are suffering with big toe pain, consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose the condition and recommend a treatment plan to help you live more comfortably.
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.
In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.
Alleviating Arthritic Pain
Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.
It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. Augustine, and Palatka, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
