The assumption that any discomfort in the big toe signifies a bunion can lead to unnecessary surgeries. Beyond bunions, several foot conditions can mimic their symptoms. Big toe joint arthritis, characterized by bone spurs due to cartilage degeneration, is one example. While this ailment often causes pain and inflammation in the big toe, it typically affects the top of the joint. A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled sac that can attach to the big toe joint, posing a diagnostic challenge. Gout, marked by intense pain and swelling from uric acid crystal deposits, can masquerade as a bunion due to similar symptoms. Bursitis, a painful inflammation of the bursa between the skin and bone, may also be mistaken as a bunion. For an accurate diagnosis of your big toe pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. Depending on the outcome of an exam, pain management or other medical interventions may be suggested. 

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Fusion Foot and Ankle. 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 Fort Worth and Arlington, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Freiberg's disease is characterized by cartilage degeneration in the lesser metatarsal heads of the feet, notably affecting adolescent females, though it can occur in both genders later in life. The condition primarily involves the second and third metatarsals. While the exact cause remains unclear, vascular problems, genetic predisposition, and altered biomechanics are common causes. Diagnosis by a podiatrist includes clinical evaluation and imaging confirmation. In many cases X-rays show normal bone formation in early stages and flattened, fragmented metatarsal heads as the disease progresses. Treatment focuses on relieving foot pressure and may involve nonoperative measures such as activity modification and custom orthotic support. Surgical interventions are considered for advanced cases. Outcomes for Freiberg’s disease from both nonoperative and operative management are generally favorable, allowing most patients to resume previous activities. To find out what may be causing metatarsal foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Fusion Foot and Ankle. Our doctors 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 offices located in Fort Worth and Arlington, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
 

Patients with diabetes face an increased risk of developing foot ulcers, or slow-healing sores, as the result of nerve damage and compromised blood circulation. Around 20 percent of people with diabetes experience a foot ulcer at some point in their lives. About half of these ulcers may become infected, which can bring serious complications, including gangrene and possibly amputation. Factors such as loss of sensation in the feet, poor circulation, and foot deformities heighten the likelihood of developing diabetic foot ulcers. Other risk factors include vision impairment, difficulty with foot care, or a prior history of ulcers. Regular foot examinations by a podiatrist are important for early detection and intervention. If you're experiencing foot problems related to diabetes, it is suggested that you make regular appointments with a podiatrist who is trained to deal with these issues. 

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Fusion Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Worth and Arlington, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.