Items filtered by date: December 2022

Pain and stiffness in the joint that attaches the big toe to the first long bone of the foot is a condition known as hallux rigidus. The discomfort in what is termed the first metatarsophalangeal joint, or MPJ, is frequently caused by degenerative arthritis. Symptoms include difficulty moving the joint up and down, swelling behind the big toe, and soreness when walking or running. In some cases, bone spurs develop on top of the first metatarsal bone. Hallux rigidus often results from overuse of the MPJ joint and the damage that causes. Studies have shown that women may have this condition in both feet, possibly as the result of the long-term wearing of high-heeled shoes or because of genetics. If recognized in the early stages, hallux rigidus symptoms can be treated non-surgically. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication and making adjustments in footwear can help to reduce MPJ pain. Wearing shoes with a larger toe box and avoiding high heels help to take the pressure off the joint. In addition, custom orthotics can make walking and running less painful. For more information, please consult a chiropodist.

Toe pain is common and can have a variety of causes. Causes can range from a broken toe to an ingrown toenail. Many types of toe pain can be corrected, but any toe pain that inhibits your activities for an extended period should be discussed with a chiropodist. If you suffer from toe pain, please consult with Paul A. Scotti, D.Ch from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist can help you maintain the health of your feet.

Common Causes of Toe Pain 

• Trauma or fracture
• Cuts, sores, or bruises
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Gout
• Turf Toe
• Morton’s neuroma
• Blisters
• Corns
• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Ingrown toenails
• Plantar warts
• Athlete’s Foot

Symptoms of Toe Pain

• Toe deformity
• Burning
• Numbness
• Toenail deformity
• Wart or ulcer
• Swelling
• Redness

When to See a Chiropodist

• Bleeding or severe swelling
• Trauma, such as a broken bone
• Discoloration or extreme swelling
• Inability to bear weight
• Persistent pain
• Wounds that won’t heal

Diagnosis of Toe Pain

A chiropodist can conduct a thorough examination of the painful toe or toes in order to determine the best course of treatment. The exam may include assessing the tenderness of the area, taking an X-ray or other diagnostic test, or assessing your gait and range of motion. A discussion of what led to the advanced pain issue may follow. Included will likely be a health history, as well as a list of medications you are taking and other previous injuries you may have sustained.

Treatment for Toe Pain

With such a wide range of possible causes for toe pain, treatment can be varied in scope and length. Sometimes, the chiropodist will recommend lifestyle and activity changes. In cases of trauma or other injuries, X-rays or imaging tests will likely be used to determine the severity of the problem, particularly if any bones have been broken. Treatment may also include injections of pain-relief medication or anti-inflammatory drugs. Certain injuries will require the splinting, bracing, or wrapping of injured toes. Orthotics or special shoes may be prescribed in cases of bone deformities and gait issues. Removal of warts, calluses, and corns may be needed. In other cases, such as with patients who have diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, ongoing treatment may be required to avoid more serious problems. 

Wearing shoes that fit properly helps to prevent ailments and conditions in the toes, feet, and ankles. Experts agree that measuring both feet each time you try on shoes is a must because the feet often change shape as you get older and may be different sizes. This is especially important when buying shoes for children. Look for shoes that best fit the shape of your feet, have a roomy toe box, and fit snugly but not tight. If you must wear high heels, limit the height to 2 inches and avoid pointy toes. Plan to try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are at their largest size. Stand up in the shoes and walk in them. If the shoes are uncomfortable in the store, either too tight or too loose, try a different size or width. Athletic shoes that have laces and high tops are recommended for better foot and ankle support. You should be able to wiggle your toes inside the shoe while standing. Look for shoes made of mesh or other flexible material, as these will provide more comfort. If you have existing foot, toe, or ankle problems, it is a good idea to ask a chiropodist for help in choosing the type of shoe that works best for you.

Plantar fasciitis can be painful and interfere with your daily activities. If you are experiencing foot or heel pain and believe you may be afflicted with plantar fasciitis, please consult with Paul A. Scotti, D.Ch from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis refers to the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. Repetitive activities, such as running or jumping, can injure the plantar fascia over time. Plantar fasciitis can also be caused by flat feet, high arches, pregnancy, and activities that put excessive pressure on your feet, like standing all day for work. When the plantar fascia becomes inflamed, it causes pain and discomfort. 

Symptoms

Typical symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:

• Stabbing pain near the heel

• Pain that is worst in the morning or after a period of rest

• Pain that increases after exercising

• Swelling

• Tightness in the Achilles tendon

Diagnosis

Plantar fasciitis is typically diagnosed via medical history and physical examination. 

Treatment

Treatments for plantar fasciitis include resting and icing the affected foot, stretching the foot, taking medications to reduce inflammation, and wearing orthotics. In severe cases where pain does not improve with conservative treatments, injections or surgery may be recommended. 

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

Calluses are the skin’s way of protecting itself when the bottom of the foot is subject to continued force or friction. As a callus thickens, it presses up into the foot and can become painful, resulting in hot spots. If your feet are numb from neuropathy caused by diabetes, you may be unaware of this progression. As the healthy skin dies, it may progress from a hot spot to an ulcer, which may also go undetected. If ignored, these ulcers can cause an infection and spread to other parts of the body. As the skin dies, ulcers can eventually turn into gangrene. Properly caring for your feet is the number one way to prevent foot ulcers and their dire progression. Check each day for cracks, sores, or hot spots. If you are unable to do so, have a healthcare worker or family member help. Wear shoes that fit correctly and have ample cushioning for the feet. Wear socks and avoid going barefoot. Most importantly, schedule regular appointments with a chiropodist who can monitor your foot health. 

Diabetes can cause serious problems in the lower limbs if proper preventive measures are not taken and diabetic wound care is not performed. If you would like to learn more about caring for diabetic feet, please consult with Paul A. Scotti, D.Ch from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Diabetes can lead to a host of foot and ankle complications, including: 

• Poor circulation

• Peripheral neuropathy

• Diabetic foot wounds and ulcers

• Infection 

• Corns and calluses

• Dry, cracked skin

• Nail disorders 

• Hammertoes 

• Bunions

• Charcot foot

If you have diabetes, you must be vigilant of any changes in your foot health. This is best done through daily foot inspections. Using a mirror to help you if necessary, look for any: 

• Cuts, scrapes, sores, or wounds

• Bruising or discoloration 

• Swelling

• Rash

• Foul odor

• Nail changes 

• Hair loss 

• Warmth and inflammation

• Deformities 

• Lower limb pain

• Strange sensations (numbness, tingling, burning, pins, and needles)

If you detect anything unusual, seek the care of a chiropodist as soon as possible. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ingrown toenails occur when the nail, usually of the big toe, grows into the skin surrounding it. Improper toenail care and shoes that don’t give the toe ample room are thought to be the main causes. Other causes include repetitive toe trauma, such as kicking a ball, and an inadvertent injury to the nail, such as stubbing the toe. Ingrown toenails are more common among men than in women, who are more likely to have pedicures. Non-surgical treatment of ingrown toenails helps to reduce the severity and pain. Such treatment includes correcting inappropriate footwear, as well as soaking the toe, and then applying a mid- to high-potency topical steroid. Sometimes, a piece of cotton ball is placed beneath the nail to separate it from the skin and allow the nail to grow out. In other cases, a type of splint is inserted between the nail and the nail bed. If you have trouble with ingrown toenails, it is wise to consult a chiropodist for treatment options.

Ingrown toenails may require medical attention. If you have significant pain or notice signs of infection from an ingrown toenail, please consult with Paul A. Scotti, D.Ch from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is an Ingrown Toenail? 

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edges of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin. The toenails of the big toe are usually affected, however, an ingrown toenail can happen on any toe. Sometimes, the area can become infected leading to potentially serious complications. The ingrown toenail may be caused by improper trimming of the toenail, wearing ill-fitting shoes, or injury to the nail.

Symptoms

The symptoms of an ingrown toenail include: 

• Pain

• Swelling

• Redness

• Warmth

• Pus or drainage from the affected nail or a fever may indicate an infection of the area. 

Treatment

Treatment depends on the severity of the ingrown toenail. In less severe cases, home treatment may be adequate. Soaking the affected foot in warm water and gently lifting the nail from the skin with a piece of clean cotton can help. In more severe cases, you may need to use topical or oral antibiotics to treat an infection. Surgical removal of the ingrown toenail may be required if more conservative treatments fail. 

Ingrown toenails may be prevented by wearing well-fitted shoes and properly trimming the toenails. Toenails should be trimmed straight across and not too short when using nail clippers. 

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