Hallux rigidus is a form of arthritis that affects the big toe joint, leading to stiffness and pain. It occurs when the cartilage in the big toe deteriorates, restricting movement and causing discomfort. Early symptoms include pain and swelling at the base of the big toe, particularly during activities like walking or bending the toe. As the condition progresses, the joint becomes increasingly rigid, making it difficult to move the toe and potentially leading to complications, such as altered gait and additional strain on other joints. Hallux rigidus can affect anyone but is more common in middle-aged individuals and those with a family history of arthritis or previous foot injuries. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests like X-rays to assess joint damage and bone changes. If you are experiencing persistent big toe pain, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide a comprehensive evaluation and effective treatment options.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Causes Toe Pain?
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Trauma
Sports injury
Wearing shoes that are too tight
Arthritis
Gout
Corns and calluses
Hammertoe
Bunions
Blisters
Ingrown toenails
Sprains
Fractures (broken bones)
Dislocations
When to See a Podiatrist
Severe pain
Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
Signs of infection
Continued swelling
Pain that prevents walking
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Rockwall, Greenville, Dallas, and Sachse, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone, often caused by chronic inflammation of the plantar fascia. They can lead to sharp pain, especially when walking or running. If you have a heel spur and want to continue running, it is important to take certain precautions. Choose well-cushioned, supportive shoes that help absorb impact and reduce stress on the heel. Engage in stretching exercises for the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia to improve flexibility and alleviate pressure. Running on softer surfaces, like grass or tracks, can also reduce the impact on your feet. Adjust your running routine by incorporating rest days and cross-training to avoid aggravating the condition. If you enjoy running and have developed a heel spur, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you additional relief solutions.
Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot Specialists. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.
Heels Spurs
Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.
Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.
Pain
The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.
Treatments
There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our offices located in Rockwall, Greenville, Dallas, and Sachse, TX. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Arthritis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. There are several types of arthritis, the most common being osteoarthritis, which results from wear and tear of the joints over time, and rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the joints. Other types include gout, which occurs due to uric acid buildup, and psoriatic arthritis, associated with the skin condition psoriasis. Arthritis can significantly affect the feet, causing pain and limiting mobility. Symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and a reduced range of motion, often worsening with activity or after periods of inactivity. The feet can be particularly vulnerable, as they bear the body's weight, making walking and standing painful. If you have painful arthritis that is impacting your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for advice on alleviating symptoms and managing the condition.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.
In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.
Alleviating Arthritic Pain
Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.
It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Rockwall, Greenville, Dallas, and Sachse, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Clubfoot, or talipes, is a congenital condition where a newborn's foot is twisted out of shape or position, typically pointing downward and inward. It occurs in about one in 1,000 births, making it a relatively common birth defect. The exact cause is unknown, though it may be linked to genetic factors and occurs more frequently in boys than girls. Clubfoot can affect one or both feet, and while it does not cause pain in infants, if left untreated, it can lead to difficulties in walking and discomfort later in life. Diagnosis is usually made at birth through a physical examination, although it can sometimes be detected during a prenatal ultrasound. Treatment should begin shortly after birth and often involves using the Ponseti method, which includes gentle manipulation and casting of the foot, followed by bracing to maintain the correction. In some cases, surgery may be required. If your child is born with clubfoot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for early and appropriate treatment, as most children born with clubfoot can lead active, normal lives.
Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.
What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?
A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.
What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?
Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:
Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.
Treatment and Prevention
While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Rockwall, Greenville, Dallas, and Sachse, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
