Diabetic Foot
Another place where foot pain is frequent is the big toe. Ingrown Toenails, Calluses, Bunions (Hallux Valgus), Arthritis, Exostoses (Bone Spurs), and Gout mainly affect this area of the foot. Ingrown toenails are the most frequent cause of pain in this area and can be remedied rapidly in a Podiatrists office. Bunions, Gout, and Arthritis typically affect the big toe joint and can produce pain when walking and difficulty wearing shoes. All three can produce chronic pain and therefore these conditions should be verified by a certified Podiatrist.
Heel pain is another major cause of soreness in the feet. The most common diagnoses are Heel spurs, Plantar Fasciitis, Achilles Tendinitis, Haglund's Deformity, Stress Fractures, Flat Feet, Reiter's Syndrome (reactive arthritis), and Bone Tumors. Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Spurs usually produce pain on the bottom of the heel and are frequently present after periods of rest. Pain in the back of the heel is commonly caused by Achilles Tendinitis and Haglund's Deformity (bony enlargement on the back of the heel). Pain is usually present upon activities such as walking and running. Thickened dry callouses on the heel can cause cracks or fissures and can be extremely painful to walk on. Podiatrists are highly trained in this area. Click here to read more about heel pain.
One of the most affected areas is the arch of the foot. Common problems include Plantar Fasciitis, Plantar Fibromas, Flat Feet orHyperpronation (when walking the arch collapses and moves inward). The plantar fascia is a long thick ligamentous structure present in the foot which supports and maintains the integrity of the plantar arch. When the fascia becomes stressed or injured it can create pain in the arch or heel. This pain is often present in the morning or after periods of rest. Click here to read more on Plantar Fasciitis.
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Pain on the top of the foot is mainly caused by Tendonitis, Osteoarthritis, or compression of the nerves caused by ill-fitting shoes. Posterior Tibial Tendonitis can be caused by falling arches of flat feet. Extensor tendonitis causes pain on the top middle portion of the foot and this can be caused by tight shoes or activities which cause overuse of the tendons. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition caused by repetitive movements causing wear and tear on the joints of the foot. Peroneus Brevis tendonitis occurs on the outside of the foot a few inches behind the base of the 5th toe. For most of these problems’ proper shoes, rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medication are sufficient. In some cases, custom-made orthopedic insoles may be necessary.
Diabetic foot care is the most important service that Podiatrists provide to the general population. Diabetics are at higher risk than the general population for foot infections and complications. Factors include diabetic peripheral neuropathy, poor circulation and high blood sugar levels. All these factors interfere with the normal healing process. Preventative foot care and foot screenings are the best way to prevent foot problems. Diabetics should see their Podiatrist every 6 months for a foot exam to evaluate the circulation and the general state of health of the entire foot. Diabetes is the most common cause of serious foot and ankle problems.
Foot pain is never normal. It is always best to consult a reputable and devoted Podiatrist. An average person can take over 6000 steps per day and over the years this can place a lot of strain on the feet. There are many factors that can induce foot pain including poor shoe gear, overuse injuries, excessive friction, sweaty feet, or Diabetes to name a few. Click below on the red text to have more information on certain Podiatric conditions.
Pain on the ball of the foot (bottom of the foot between the toes & arch) is very common among runners, hikers, and people who walk a lot especially those who work standing. Pathologies such as Warts, Corns, IPKs (neurovascular corns), Morton’s Neuroma, Metatarsalgia, Capsulitis, Plantar Plate Syndrome (ligament tear) are common causes. Painful corns and warts can be removed quickly and effectively in a private office of a Podiatrist. Morton’s Neuroma produces a thickening of nerve tissue in the area and can cause burning, numbness and sometimes the feeling of an electric shock extending to the ends of the toes. Metatarsalgia, Capsulitis, Plantar Plate Syndrome can cause pain on the bottom of the foot just behind the toes. In most cases changes in footwear, custom orthopedic insoles can resolve most problems in the forefoot. In rare cases, cortisone injections or surgery may be necessary.