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A bony protrusion on the bottom of the big toe may be diagnosed as a bunion. It can occur as a result of genetic factors, or from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. The medical term for this condition is known as hallux valgus, and it can force the big toe to bend to the side. Some of the symptoms that are often associated with this condition can consist of pain, swelling on or around the affected toe, and arthritis may gradually develop. Moderate relief may be found if a padded bandage is worn over the bunion. This may help to protect it from rubbing against the side of the shoe, and it may be beneficial to refrain from wearing shoes that have a pointed toe area. If you feel you have developed a bunion, it is advised that you speak with a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Dr. George Yarnell of Pennsylvania. 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

• 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 offices located in Lansdowne and Broomall, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a form of arthritis that can affect anyone. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

Heel pain can be a common ailment that many runners and joggers experience. It may become so severe that it can interrupt daily activities. People who participate in sporting activities that involve running and jumping may develop plantar fasciitis. This is a medical condition that affects the bottom of the foot, and pain is often felt in the heel and arch areas. The portion of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel to the toes, is referred to as the plantar fascia. If this becomes inflamed or torn, it can produce severe pain and discomfort. One of the first signs many patients notice is foot pain after arising in the morning. Mild relief may be found when appropriate stretches are performed. If you are afflicted with plantar fasciitis, it is strongly recommended that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide you toward the proper treatment.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. George Yarnell from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

Severe pain in the heel may be indicative of a heel spur. This condition can develop as a result of the aging process, or from participating in running and jumping activities. Additionally, patients who wear shoes that do not fit correctly, are overweight, or have endured an injury to the heel may be candidates for heel spurs. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this condition can consist of redness, tenderness, and an achy feeling in the heel and surrounding area. It may appear swollen and cause difficulty in walking. Many patients have found moderate relief when the feet are elevated, and shoes that are worn have adequate cushioning. If you feel you may have a heel spur, it is advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

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 Dr. George Yarnell from Pennsylvania. Our doctor 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 Lansdowne and Broomall, PA. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.