Items filtered by date: December 2023
See Your Podiatrist Regularly If You Work On Your Feet
Do you work on your feet all day and find your feet in pain? Don't go to work in pain each day. Your foot pain can be treated, and we can help.
Orthotics Can Help Bunion Pain
Orthotics can provide significant relief for individuals suffering from bunion pain. Bunions are characterized by the enlargement of the joint at the base of the big toe, often leading to pain, swelling, and altered foot biomechanics. Orthotics offer several benefits in managing this condition. They help redistribute pressure and support the arch of the foot, reducing the strain on the affected joint. This alleviates pain and prevents the bunion from worsening. Orthotics can also correct abnormal foot mechanics, such as overpronation or supination, which can contribute to bunion formation and exacerbation. By promoting proper alignment, orthotics help avoid further deformity. Additionally, they offer cushioning and shock absorption, reducing discomfort when walking or engaging in physical activities. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for care options and discussion on whether orthotics can help you.
If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our doctors from Godoy Foot and Ankle Center. 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 Wayne, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Bunions and Associated Problems
A bunion, or hallux valgus, is a bony protrusion at the base of the big toe, developing from pressure causing the toe to lean towards the second toe. This misalignment, often resulting from the joint at the toe's base bearing significant weight during activities such as standing and walking, can lead to symptoms like pain, stiffness, redness, and swelling. Additionally, calluses often form due to friction between the big and second toe or on the ball of the foot. Bunions tend to worsen over time if not addressed, possibly causing difficulty in wearing shoes and walking comfortably. While bunions are more common in adults, they can also be present from birth or develop during childhood. The condition can affect one or both feet, posing a persistent challenge to foot comfort and function. If you have an uncomfortable bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss treatment options that may increase your comfort.
If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our doctors of Godoy Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors 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 our office located in Wayne, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Conservative Treatments for Forefoot and Toe Pain
Forefoot disorders are common and can significantly impact a person's ability to walk and may affect their overall quality of life. One prevalent issue is metatarsalgia, which causes pain in the front part of the foot. To alleviate metatarsalgia, individuals can use metatarsal pads, bars, or forefoot cushions. Another common problem is hallux valgus, characterized by the deviation of the big toe towards the other toes. Treatment options for hallux valgus include toe spreaders, valgus splints, and bunion shields. Hallux limitus and hallux rigidus, which cause limited movement in the big toe, can benefit from kinetic wedge foot orthoses or rocker soles. Additionally, hammer, claw, and mallet toes, which involve unusual bending of the smaller toes, can be managed with toe sleeves, padding, or metatarsal off-loading insoles. Morton's neuroma, a painful condition affecting the metatarsal area due to a benign nerve growth, can be relieved through the use of metatarsal bars, plantar pads, or cushioned insoles. It is important for individuals with these forefoot disorders to avoid wearing tight-fitting or high-heeled shoes and instead opt for comfortable footwear. If you suffer from forefoot pain, including toe pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate management strategies.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our doctors from Godoy Foot and Ankle Center. 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 Wayne, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.