Items filtered by date: October 2024

A toe infection is an inflammatory condition that affects the tissues surrounding the toe, often resulting in pain, swelling, and redness. Common causes of toe infections are fungal and bacterial infections. Fungal infections, such as athlete's foot, thrive in warm, moist environments and can spread to the toenails, leading to discoloration and brittleness. Bacterial infections can arise from cuts, blisters, or ingrown toenails, leading to increased pain and pus formation. Diagnosing a toe infection typically involves a physical examination by a podiatrist, who may take a sample of any discharge for laboratory testing. Imaging studies might be used to assess the extent of the infection. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms and feel you may have a toe infection, it is strongly suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Doctors of Utica. 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 Herkimer, and New Hartford, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Achilles tendon injuries are relatively common, particularly among athletes and active individuals. The Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, is prone to strains and tears due to its role in walking, running, and jumping. Common causes of injury include sudden increases in physical activity, such as jumping or sprinting, and inadequate warm-up exercises. Risk factors for Achilles tendon injuries include age, as the tendon weakens with time, and conditions like obesity, which places extra stress on the tendon. Individuals with poor flexibility or muscle imbalances are also at a higher risk. Wearing inappropriate footwear or having a history of previous tendon injuries can further increase susceptibility. An Achilles tendon injury can cause extreme pain and discomfort. If you have sustained this type of injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Doctors of Utica. Our doctors 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 offices located in Herkimer, and New Hartford, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Haglund's deformity is a bony enlargement on the back of the heel bone, where the Achilles tendon attaches. This condition can cause significant discomfort and irritation, particularly where the heel rubs against the shoe. Symptoms typically include pain and swelling at the back of the heel, and in severe cases, the area may become red and tender. The primary cause of Haglund's deformity is often linked to wearing tight or rigid shoes, which can increase the pressure on the heel. Structural abnormalities in the foot or abnormal walking patterns may also contribute. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing further irritation, although in some cases surgery may be needed. Conservative options include wearing well-fitted, cushioned shoes, using heel pads or orthotic inserts to reduce pressure, and performing stretching exercises for the Achilles tendon. For a more precise diagnosis and tailored treatment plan, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Doctors of Utica. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Herkimer, and New Hartford, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.