The common foot condition known as a bunion can be unflattering. It is a deformity that affects approximately 30% of the population. A bunion is defined as a bony lump that forms on the side of the big toe. Research has shown it can develop from genetic reasons or possibly from the shoes that are worn. Many people wear shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in, and a bunion may start to form. Additional reasons why a bunion can occur include enduring an injury that may alter the structure of the foot. This may contribute to having damaged ligaments, and can cause a misalignment of the big toe. If the bunion is large, it may cause the big toe to shift toward the other toes, and this can cause pain and discomfort. Patients often need to purchase larger shoes that can accommodate the bunion, and it is suggested that medical attention is sought. There are several treatment options for bunions, and if you are afflicted with one, it is strongly advised that you contact a podiatrist who can guide you toward the best one for you.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, Port Richmond, Philadelphia, and Hamilton, New Jersey . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A Morton’s neuroma refers to thickening of nerve tissue at the base of the 3rd or 4th toe. While the precise cause of this condition is unknown, it is thought to form from pressure, irritation, or injury of nerves leading to the toes. This condition can cause one to feel like there is a lump or knot near the ball of the foot, like they are walking on a pebble, or wearing socks that have become bunched up. There can be an achy, sharp, or burning pain in the ball of the foot, or tingling, numbness, or cramping in the forefoot or toes. A Morton’s neuroma can become swollen and painful. One can develop a Morton’s neuroma from wearing shoes that are too narrow where the toes are squeezed together or high-heeled shoes where the body weight is forced onto the ball of the foot. Non-invasive treatments for Morton’s neuroma include wearing properly fitted shoes, with heels less than two inches in height, wide toe boxes, and thick soles, using padding in shoes to take the pressure off the nerve, or taping the feet to redistribute body weight and ease inflammation. Medication and injections can also help relieve pain and pressure of this ailment. Custom orthotics can be made to provide support if one has an abnormal foot structure, such as flat feet or overlapping toes causing the condition. Surgery can be performed if a Morton’s neuroma becomes large or fails to be relieved with more conservative treatment options. Left untreated, a Morton’s neuroma can become worse. For this reason, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment that fits the severity of your specific foot problem.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, Port Richmond, Philadelphia, and Hamilton, New Jersey . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Many individuals throughout the American workforce spend a significant amount of the workday on their feet. For example, cooks, construction workers, and hairstylists spend most of their time on the clock standing on their feet. There are a few things to be mindful of, however, for pregnant women who hold jobs that require them to stand all day. Standing for prolonged periods while pregnant can not only be dangerous, but it can also be difficult or painful. It is recommended that pregnant women stand for no more than four or five hours while taking frequent breaks throughout the workday. Since pregnant women’s feet are prone to swelling, it is more important to listen to your body and give your feet the rest that they need. As the pregnancy progresses, a woman might notice standing becomes increasingly difficult throughout the workday. Pregnant women might choose to lie down during breaks as well as stay hydrated and elevate their feet. Working on one’s feet is certainly nothing to take lightly, particularly if you are pregnant or are planning to be. Consult with a podiatrist for the best advice on maintaining the health of your feet.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, Port Richmond, Philadelphia, and Hamilton, New Jersey . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Running is a widespread recreational activity. However, a large portion of those who engage in running can suffer from running-related injuries at some point in their lives. Injuries to the feet can be common among these running-related injuries. There are several steps that you might take to prevent running injuries to your feet. First, you can be diligent about stretching your feet both before and after your runs, focusing also on the lower calves. This serves to loosen the muscles in your feet, effectively reducing tension and strain. Second, you might consider receiving some kind of regular foot massage treatment to further relax the muscles in your feet. This might be particularly effective if you notice that muscles in your feet or lower legs are becoming sore. Third, you might avoid running on uneven surfaces. This is recommended because uneven terrain can increase the likelihood of falls, which can wreak havoc on your feet. If you engage in running, it is a good decision to consult with a podiatrist about how to proactively prevent running injuries.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, Port Richmond, Philadelphia, and Hamilton, New Jersey . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.