FOOT HEALTH
Many different foot problems can affect the foot and ankle. You rely on your feet to get you where you want to go. Learn more about different types of foot pain, diagnosis and treatments.
Heel Pain
Heel pain is a very common foot problem. The sufferer usually feels pain either under the heel (planter fasciitis) or just behind it (Achilles tendinitis), where the Achilles tendon connects to the heel bone.
Treatment:
Treatment of heel pain begins with first-line strategies, which you can begin at home: stretching exercises, avoid going barefoot, limit activities, shoe modification.
Bunions
A bunion (also referred to as hallux valgus or hallux abducto valgus) is often described as a bump on the side of the big toe. The visible bump actually reflects changes in the bony framework of the front part of the foot. The big toe leans toward the second toe, rather than pointing straight ahead. This throws the bones out of alignment – producing the bunion’s “bump.”
Treatment:
To reduce the chance of damage to the joint, periodic evaluation and x-rays by your surgeon are advised. Early treatments are aimed at easing the pain of bunions, These include changes in shoewear, padding, activity modifications…etc.
Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis is an inflammation of the Achilles tendon. This inflammation is typically short-lived. Over time, if not resolved, the condition may progress to a degeneration of the tendon (Achilles tendonosis), in which the tendon loses its organized structure and is likely to develop microscopic tears.
Treatment:
In the early stage, when there is sudden (acute) inflammation, one or more of the following options may be recommended: immobilization, ice and night splints.
Arch Pain
Pain across the bottom of the foot at any point between the heel and the ball of the foot is often referred to as "arch pain."
In most cases, arch pain develops from overuse, unsupportive shoes, weight gain, or acute injury. If arch pain persists beyond a few days, see a foot and ankle surgeon for treatment to prevent this condition from becoming worse.
Calluses
A callus is a thickened area of skin on the foot caused by pressure and repeated rubbing, such as from a shoe or sock. The rubbing causes the skin to produce a layer of protective skin (a callus). Calluses vary in size, and can become painful.
There are a number of treatments for painful calluses. People who have calluses are cautioned against performing “bathroom surgery,” as this can lead to cuts and infection. However, if the underlying cause of the callus is not treated or removed, the callus may return.
Hammertoes
Hammertoe is a contracture (bending) of one or both joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth (little) toes. This abnormal bending can put pressure on the toe when wearing shoes, causing problems to develop.
There is a variety of treatment options for hammertoe. The treatment your foot and ankle surgeon selects will depend upon the severity of your hammertoe and other factors.
