Items filtered by date: December 2023

Bunions are painful bumps at the base of the big toe, primarily the result of hallux valgus, where the big toe deviates outward and tilts toward the second toe. Contributing factors for the formation of bunions include foot pronation, wearing tight shoes, injuries, osteoarthritis, and heredity. Bunions can cause pain, especially in narrow shoes, and may enlarge over time. Painful swelling caused by inflamed bursa under the toe often accompanies bunions and limits joint motion. Diagnosing bunions relies on symptoms and physical exams, such as X-rays, while joint fluid analysis rules out infectious arthritis or gout. Treatment options depend on the severity of the bunion. A podiatrist can guide you toward non-invasive treatment solutions, including orthotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication, and corticosteroid injections to manage pain and inflammation. In severe cases, or when more conservative measures fail, surgical bunionectomy becomes an option. This procedure corrects joint alignment and removes the bunion. To determine the best treatment plan for your specific needs and taking into account the severity of your bunion, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Gerald Erskine, DPM of Seneca Family Footcare. Our doctor 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 Ronceverte, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

People can drop a heavy object on their foot, and may wonder if it is a temporary pain or something more serious like a broken toe. Broken toes are often the result of such accidents as having a heavy object drop on the foot, jamming it into a piece of furniture, or from missing a step. They can also occur due to an aggravated stress fracture, abnormal foot structure, or conditions such as osteoporosis. When a toe breaks, it causes severe pain, swelling, and bruising. Walking becomes difficult, but it is important to note that the ability to walk on a broken toe does not rule out a fracture. Diagnosis typically involves a visual examination and may require X-rays to be taken. Treatment options range from rest and elevation for minor fractures to splinting or buddy taping for more severe cases. In rare instances, surgery may be necessary to ensure proper healing. Complications such as toenail trauma, chronic pain, stiffness, and deformity can arise if a broken toe is not treated correctly. If you suspect you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a timely and effective recovery.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Gerald Erskine, DPM from Seneca Family Footcare. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, or CRPS, in the foot is a condition where foot pain becomes intense and persistent, often after an injury or surgery. It can make your foot extremely sensitive to touch, and even the slightest contact may cause severe pain. Additionally, your foot may change in appearance, becoming swollen or discolored. You may find it challenging to move your foot and use your muscles properly. CRPS in the foot can be diagnosed through a physical examination and tests such as X-rays or nerve tests. While it is a complex condition, there are treatments available. If you are experiencing unusual or severe foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to create a personalized plan to regain comfort and function in your foot, which may involve exercises and pain management techniques.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Gerald Erskine, DPM of Seneca Family Footcare. Our doctor 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 Ronceverte, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
 

Choosing shoes that fit correctly is a nuanced process that directly impacts comfort and foot health. Start by knowing your foot size, which can change over time and may differ between brands. It is beneficial to prioritize comfort over style, as shoes that feel good are more likely to provide adequate support. Ensure there is enough room for your toes to move and avoid tightness in the toe box, which can lead to discomfort and deformities over time. The arch support should match the natural curve of your foot. It's important to pay attention to the width, as shoes that are too narrow or too wide can cause friction and pressure points. Walk around in the shoes before purchasing to assess overall comfort and ensure a snug fit. Different shoe types may require slight adjustments in sizing. If you would like more information about how to find shoes that fit right for your feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Gerald Erskine, DPM from Seneca Family Footcare. Our doctor 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 Ronceverte, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.