Podiatrists, or foot doctors, can take different approaches to treating bunions, which are structural deformities of the joint at the base of the big toe. This condition not only can cause pain but may also lead to a cascade of secondary foot problems, affecting mobility and quality of life. Initial treatment strategies may include non-invasive interventions aimed at alleviating symptoms and halting the progression of the deformity. Possible strategies include the use of custom orthotics designed to redistribute pressure away from the affected joint, targeted exercises to maintain joint mobility, and advice on appropriate footwear that accommodates the bunion without exacerbating discomfort. In more severe cases, podiatrists may recommend surgical intervention. This surgery, known as a bunionectomy, involves realigning the toe by correcting the abnormal angle of the bones, addressing the issue both cosmetically and functionally. If you have a bunion, it is suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist who can recommend treatment options to prevent the condition from worsening. 

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of East Ocean Podiatry . Our doctors 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

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

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 Deerfield Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A podiatrist can help diagnose and treat osteoid osteomas in the foot or ankle. These doctors can identify these benign, rare bone tumors and offer treatments like surgery or radiofrequency ablation, or RFA, to relieve pain. Surgery may require limited weight-bearing for a few weeks, while RFA does not have this restriction. Both methods effectively alleviate pain, with RFA often chosen when the tumor is seen on imaging tests. However, if the tumor is close to important nerves or blood vessels, RFA might not be an option. Podiatrists also consider the distance from the tumor to the cartilage to minimize damage during treatment. If you have foot pain that is persistent or worsening, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation. A proper diagnosis can be made, and proper treatment administered, thereby helping you regain comfort and mobility.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of East Ocean Podiatry . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Deerfield Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
 

In our modern world dominated by concrete and cement, the demise of shoes seems unlikely. This reliance, however, has led to chronic back and foot pain. Podiatrists play an important role in addressing these issues. Wearing improper or ill-fitting shoes can lead to various problems, from bunions to muscle tension and even plantar fasciitis. Choosing the right shoes involves considering factors like foot swelling throughout the day and ensuring proper fit and support. Additionally, rotating shoes to engage different muscles and replacing worn out ones are important practices. A podiatrist can offer personalized advice and treatments to alleviate foot pain and prevent future issues, emphasizing the importance of footwear in maintaining healthy and pain-free feet. If you would like guidance in making sure you get the right sized shoes that fit your feet well, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a consultation.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from East Ocean Podiatry . Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Deerfield Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Corns can develop on many parts of the feet, although certain areas are more prone to corn formation due to increased pressure, friction, or rubbing against footwear. One common location for corns is on the tops of the toes, particularly over joints where the toe bones meet. The pressure from shoes that are too tight or narrow can cause friction in these areas. Similarly, corns may form on the sides of the toes, where adjacent toes rub against each other or against the sides of shoes. On the soles of the feet, corns often occur over bony prominences, such as the balls of the feet or the heels. Excessive pressure from walking or standing can cause thickened areas of skin to develop. Soft corns can also form between the toes due to moisture accumulation and friction. If you have corns on your feet, it is suggested you consult with a podiatrist who can provide more information about effective treatment and prevention. 

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of East Ocean Podiatry . Our doctors 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:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

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 Deerfield Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Balance is a fundamental aspect of daily life, affecting activities like walking, standing, and even tying your shoes. Recent research highlights its role in overall health, with studies revealing a correlation between poor balance and increased mortality risk. Incorporating balance exercises into your routine can lower this risk and improve stability. Here are a few exercises that aim to improve balance and reduce the likelihood of falling. It’s a good idea to have a chair or wall nearby to hold on to while performing them. The first is single-leg standing, where you elevate one leg while maintaining posture and gradually increase duration. Next is heel-to-toe walking, simulating a tightrope walk to enhance balance and coordination. Finally, integrating yoga practice can help to improve body awareness and proprioception, which is needed for equilibrium. Whether you're an athlete aiming for peak performance or an older adult with balance problems, these exercises can help reduce the risk of falls and promote overall well-being. For help with foot and ankle problems related to mobility or stability, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a full exam.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from East Ocean Podiatry . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Deerfield Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.