Bunions are considered to be one of the most common foot problems among adults. Research has shown that approximately one-third of adults are afflicted with bunions, and it may happen from wearing shoes that do not have sufficient room for the toes to move in freely. Additionally, genetics may play a role in developing bunions, and while that cannot be prevented, steps may be taken to bring relief. A bunion is defined as a bony growth that develops on the side of the big toe, and if the bunion is large, it may cause the other toes to shift toward each other. It is beneficial to reduce the length of time high heels are worn, and replace them with stylish shoes that have a low heel and adequate room in the toe box of the shoe. Temporary relief may be found when a protective pad is worn over the bunion, and this may be helpful in preventing corns from developing. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer you relief, which may include surgery for permanent removal.
If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Michael F. Esber, DPM of Arizona Foot Health Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Bunion?
Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.
Causes
Symptoms
In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Sun City West, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Corns on the feet are a relatively well-known affliction of the foot that occurs essentially when friction on the skin produces an area of hardened skin. There are many things that can make the onset of corns on the feet more likely for patients. For example, wearing shoes that fit too tightly can exacerbate friction and make corns more likely. Additionally, another risk factor that makes corns more likely is standing for too long. Although this might not immediately seem intuitive, individuals who stand for periods of time that are too long ultimately put continuous weight-bearing pressure on their feet. As a result, this pressure can lead to the hardening of skin on the feet. If you are someone who stands for a large percentage of the day, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for treatment. A podiatrist is a foot specialist that can treat a wide range of different foot conditions.
Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Michael F. Esber, DPM of Arizona Foot Health Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:
Treating Corns
Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Sun City West, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s foot is a particular kind of fungal infection that impacts the feet. Individuals who have athlete’s foot may experience different symptoms. For example, patients may present a scaly rash that could be red. There are several different types of athlete’s foot that an individual could have. Moccasin-type athlete’s foot is one such type. Several things characterize this kind of athlete’s foot. Namely, moccasin-type athlete’s foot affects the soles of the feet, the heel, and the edges of the foot. As a result of having a moccasin-type athlete’s foot, an individual could experience soreness in the feet. The skin on the feet may even thicken in texture or crack. If you are struggling with athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist today.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Michael F. Esber, DPM from Arizona Foot Health Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Sun City West, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Some people refer to orthotics as shoe inserts or foot pads. They are defined as a method to relieve foot pain, in addition to providing heel and arch support. The majority of people take thousands of steps per day, which may result in foot pain. This can make completing daily tasks difficult to accomplish, and relief is often sought. Once the source of the foot pain is identified, one of three types of orthotics may be prescribed. Pressure may be reduced while walking when soft orthotics are worn. These are designed with flexible materials, such as gel or foam. If stability is mostly needed, the choice may be rigid orthotics. They may also aid in having easier mobility. The most common type of orthotics is referred to as semi-rigid, which provides adequate cushioning and shock absorption. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can determine the cause and prescribe the type of orthotics that are right for you.
If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Michael F. Esber, DPM from Arizona Foot Health Center. Our doctor 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 Sun City West, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
Sever's disease is a painful foot condition typically affecting active children and young teenagers. It happens as a result of an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel. This causes the heel bone to grow faster than the surrounding muscles and tendons, and pain can be felt in the back of the heel. It can affect the area where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel bone, and calf pain may develop. This can gradually occur, and children may begin to limp. They may also walk on tiptoes. The symptoms can become more frequent with increased activity. Certain conditions like high arches, flat feet, and obesity might make children susceptible to Sever’s disease. Relief is generally found when the activity that caused this condition is temporarily stopped. It can also be helpful to elevate the feet. If your child has Sever’s disease, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine the correct form of treatment and prescribe custom-made orthotics, if necessary.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Michael F. Esber, DPM from Arizona Foot Health Center. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Sun City West, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
When a pregnant woman brings a baby to term, her feet might undergo different and significant changes. For example, during a woman’s pregnancy, she might experience increased swelling in the feet, larger feet, and achy sensations in the feet. One often overlooked symptom of pregnancy is discoloration in the feet. Discoloration is another word for the alteration of color in human skin. Interestingly, discoloration in the skin is a common symptom that some women experience during pregnancy. The feet are certainly no exception to this phenomenon. Specifically, some pregnant women may notice that the soles of their feet have become more red. If you are pregnant or are planning to be, consider contacting a podiatrist today who will help you maintain the health of your feet throughout your pregnancy.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Michael F. Esber, DPM from Arizona Foot Health Center. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Sun City West, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
When a child is growing and maturing, it is essential that the parent protects the health of their child’s feet. Ensuring proper foot health will help the child grow up with strong, functional feet. This is critical to overall wellbeing and health. However, certain deformities in children’s feet can complicate the health of their feet. Specifically, clubfoot, or congenital talipes equinovarus, is the most obvious deformity that can develop in children. This condition is defined by an awkward and unnatural positioning of the feet where the foot is turned in and resembles the head of a golf club. Importantly, there are three different types or tiers, of this condition. If you are someone that is caring for a newborn baby with this ailment, please consider contacting a podiatrist who can offer you medical advice that can help you to care for your child.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Michael F. Esber, DPM of Arizona Foot Health Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Sun City West, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
There are several bones in the ankle that can break from a foot injury. Falling is a common reason to incur a broken ankle, or if it suddenly rolls inward or outward. These types of actions can stretch the ankle joint beyond its normal range, and ligaments may tear. The symptoms that many people experience with a broken ankle can consist of immediate bruising and swelling, and it is extremely difficult to walk. Additional symptoms can include a numbing sensation, and bruising may gradually radiate to the entire foot. A crack, break, or chip in the ankle are considered to fall in the category of a broken ankle, and an X-ray is generally performed that can determine the extent of the injury. This is followed by wearing a protective boot or cast, which can help to complete daily activities. The recovery time for a broken ankle can take several weeks, and this timeframe may be increased if there are complications. If you have broken your ankle, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with the treatment method that is correct for you.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Michael F. Esber, DPM from Arizona Foot Health Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Sun City West, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
