Blog

Understanding the Causes of Bunion Pain

Tuesday, 09 July 2024

Bunion pain arises when a bony bump forms on the joint at the base of the big toe. This condition, known as a bunion, occurs due to prolonged pressure on the foot, often from wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes. The pressure causes the big toe to lean towards the second toe, resulting in the joint jutting out and becoming inflamed. This inflammation leads to pain, swelling, and redness. Genetics also plays a role, as bunions can run in families. Additionally, certain foot shapes and conditions, such as flat feet or arthritis, increase the likelihood of developing bunions. The pain can be worsened by activities that put extra stress on the feet, such as standing for long periods or engaging in high-impact sports. Proper footwear, orthotics, and, in severe cases, surgery can help alleviate bunion pain. If you have a bunion that is causing you pain and discomfort, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can determine the best course of treatment for you.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Sybil J. Fisher of Texas. 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?

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 one of our offices located in Houston and Sugar Land, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Wednesday, 03 July 2024

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Common Running Injuries and Treatment

Tuesday, 02 July 2024

Common running injuries include shin splints, Achilles tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, and stress fractures. Shin splints cause pain along the shin bone due to overuse or wearing improper footwear. Achilles tendinitis involves inflammation of the Achilles tendon, while plantar fasciitis affects the band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes, causing heel pain. Stress fractures are tiny cracks in bones due to repetitive force. Evaluation involves a physical examination, imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans, and a review of the runner's history and habits. Prevention includes proper warm-ups, wearing appropriate shoes, gradually increasing running intensity, and incorporating strength and flexibility training. Treatment varies but often includes rest, compression, elevation, gentle stretching, and sometimes anti-inflammatory medications or orthotics. If you are a runner who has sustained an injury to your feet or ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Dr. Sybil J. Fisher of Texas. 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:

Plantar Fasciitis
Achilles Tendinitis
Achilles Tendon Rupture
Ankle Sprains

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 contact one of our offices located in Houston and Sugar Land, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Facts About Morton's Neuroma

Tuesday, 25 June 2024

Morton's neuroma is a painful condition affecting the ball of the foot, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. It involves the thickening of tissue surrounding one of the nerves leading to the toes, causing sharp, burning pain or a feeling of something being stuck inside the ball of the foot. Contributing factors include wearing high heels or tight shoes, which put pressure on the toes and the nerves. Symptoms can also include numbness or a tingling sensation in the toes. Relief methods include wearing wider shoes with lower heels, using arch supports or foot pads, and resting the feet to reduce pressure. In more severe cases, medical treatments such as corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary. If pain has developed in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Sybil J. Fisher of Texas. Our doctor 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.

Types of Bunion Surgery

Tuesday, 18 June 2024

Bunion surgery, or a bunionectomy, addresses the painful deformity at the base of the big toe. One common procedure is the realignment of ligaments, which involves adjusting the soft tissues surrounding the joint to correct the toe's position. Another type of bunion surgery is the removal of bone from the end of the first metatarsal bone. This technique reduces the bony bump and realigns the bone to alleviate discomfort. Fusion, or arthrodesis, is a more extensive option where the bones of the big toe joint are fused together. This method provides stability and is often used for severe bunions or arthritis. Each surgical approach aims to relieve pain, improve foot function, and prevent future issues. If you have a bunion that is causing you pain or discomfort, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine if surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Sybil J. Fisher of Texas. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

Bunionectomy for painful bunions
Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

Blog

Blog Archives