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There are bones that are found inside the muscle under the big toe called the sesamoid bones. Their function is to act as a shock absorber for the ball of the foot, and sesamoiditis may happen if they become inflamed. This can result from excess force while running and jumping and can cause pain and discomfort. Additional reasons why this condition can occur from stumbling or slipping or if the toe suddenly bends upward. Further, having an abnormal foot structure or frequently wearing high heels may cause sesamoiditis to develop. Common symptoms associated with this condition include pain while pushing off when walking or running, and swelling surrounding the big toe. Relief may be felt when the foot is elevated, and orthotics are worn that can help to support the foot as it heals. If you have pain under the big toe, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can correctly diagnose and treat sesamoiditis.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. George Yarnell of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

Improved circulation may help people who have rheumatoid arthritis. This may be accomplished by performing gentle stretches which may ease joint stiffness. Additionally, the range of motion can increase from the joint fluids moving easier. When this condition affects the feet, it is often difficult to complete daily tasks. The gait may become altered to accommodate for the pain, and many people find they begin to limp. When the ankle is flexed and stretched, existing swelling may be relieved, and the ankle joints may become strengthened. Performing toe curls may help the balls of the feet and toe joints. This is done by curling the toes down while sitting in a chair, followed by extending them upward. If you are afflicted with rheumatoid arthritis in the feet, please consult a podiatrist for additional pain relief methods.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Dr. George Yarnell of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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

When the back of the heel hurts, it may be caused by a condition known as Achilles tendonitis. This ailment occurs when the strong Achilles tendon becomes inflamed, largely the result of overuse or a sudden increase in activity. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, and discomfort above the area of the heel that is used when stretching or standing on your toes. There are two types of Achilles tendonitis, insertional and noninsertional. The former is the result of tiny tears that occur when the lower portion of the tendon breaks down. The latter is when the tears occur in the middle part of the tendon. Common ways the Achilles tendon becomes compromised include failing to warm up before exercise, wearing high heels, and increasing activity too quickly. Other causes include overpronation, bone spurs, and gout. To find out more about dealing with the pain of Achilles tendonitis, please consult a podiatrist.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, 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 the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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

Toe cramps can be painful as well as extremely annoying, especially when they wake you out of a sound sleep. Most cases of toe cramps are believed to be the result of overuse. Common culprits include walking too long, working out too much, and wearing shoes that force your feet to flex too much. Other causes of toe cramps include dehydration, along with consuming too much salt. Toe cramps also may be the result of deficiencies in such minerals as potassium, magnesium, and calcium. In addition, increased age, high anxiety, and other underlying medical conditions have been known to cause toe cramps. If you have toe cramps, it is suggested that you massage the area while trying to move the toes as much as you can. Also, applying a heating pad to the area for about 10 minutes can help. Be sure to wear shoes that fit properly and don’t squeeze the toes. Avoid sandals and flip-flops that cause the toes to flex when walking. Stretch your toes frequently and massage them while resting. For more information on how to deal with toe cramping, please consult a podiatrist.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. George Yarnell of Pennsylvania. Our doctor 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 contact our office located in Lansdowne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.