When the big toe starts to angle toward the smaller toes, a bony bump can form at its base, often leading to pain, redness, and swelling. Bunions tend to worsen over time and are commonly linked to inherited foot structure, tight shoes, or repeated stress on the forefoot. As the joint becomes irritated, even walking short distances may feel uncomfortable. Comfort-focused changes can help reduce strain and relieve pressure. Supportive shoes with roomy toe boxes, soft padding, and custom orthotics can make a noticeable difference. Applying cold packs and doing gentle toe exercises may also ease soreness. In some cases, professional treatment is needed to correct alignment or reduce inflammation. If your foot pain or joint swelling continues to interfere with daily activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for expert evaluation and a personalized care plan.
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 our office located in Crystal Lake, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
For individuals managing diabetes, a foot wound is not just a minor injury, it represents a serious health risk. Elevated blood sugar over time can damage nerves, called neuropathy, and cause a dulling sensation so a small cut or blister goes unnoticed. Additionally, poor circulation, known as peripheral artery disease, slows healing, turning a simple wound into a chronic, non-healing ulcer that puts you at high risk for infection and potential limb loss. A podiatrist's role involves an important risk assessment to determine your level of vulnerability. This comprehensive exam includes checking for nerve function using specialized tools, assessing blood flow through palpation and Doppler studies, and evaluating any structural deformities that cause pressure points. This detailed information allows us to implement a targeted prevention and treatment plan, which is essential to safeguarding your mobility and overall health. Do not wait for a problem to appear. If you have diabetes and notice any changes to your feet, skin, or nail condition, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.
Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Crystal Lake Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Wound Care?
Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic.
What Is the Importance of Wound Care?
While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.
How to Care for Wounds
The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Crystal Lake, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Constant care and regular evaluation are important for a foot or ankle fracture. If left untreated, foot or ankle fractures can worsen over time and create more serious problems.
Don't wait to be examined if you believe you've experienced a foot or ankle fracture.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to attack the joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and stiffness. When it affects the feet and ankles, it can damage the joints, tendons, and ligaments, making walking and standing painful. Common symptoms include swelling, warmth, redness, joint deformities, and difficulty in moving the toes or ankles. Over time, this condition can cause significant changes in foot structure. A podiatrist can provide treatments to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility through custom orthotics, supportive footwear, and joint protection strategies. If you have symptoms of RA in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management solutions.
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 one of our podiatrists of Crystal Lake Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors 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 Crystal Lake, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
