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Arthritis in the toes occurs when the joints become inflamed, often causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. The big toe is frequently affected, although smaller toes may also become painful. Common causes include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or gout, as well as past injuries such as sprains or fractures. Risk factors include aging, excess weight, family history, or wearing tight, high-heeled shoes. As cartilage between the toe joints wears away, bones may rub together, leading to inflammation and pain. Symptoms range from a dull ache to sharp stabbing sensations, particularly during walking. Stiffness and swelling can make it hard to move the toes or wear shoes comfortably. In some cases, clicking or grinding noises may occur as the joint deteriorates. The toe may even change shape, appear larger, or shift position. If you are experiencing symptoms of arthritic toe pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Centers for Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Merrillville, Portage, Michigan City/LaPorte, and Schererville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A stress fracture in the foot is a small, hairline crack in a bone, often caused by repetitive impact or overuse. This type of fracture commonly affects the metatarsals, navicular, or heel bone and can lead to localized pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight. Treatment depends on the severity and location of the fracture. Most foot stress fractures respond well to non-weight-bearing rest and protective footwear, such as a walking boot or stiff-soled shoe, to reduce pressure during healing. In some cases, a cast or crutches may be needed to keep weight off the affected foot. If the fracture does not heal with conservative care, surgery may be required. This usually involves using screws or pins to hold the bone in place. Recovery can take several weeks, and imaging may be used to confirm healing before resuming activity. If you experience foot pain after repetitive activities like running or participate in certain sports, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Centers for Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Merrillville, Portage, Michigan City/LaPorte, and Schererville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A foot fracture in a child involves a break in one or more of the bones in the foot and may occur from direct impact, twisting injuries, or overuse. Common signs of a broken foot include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight or walking. In some cases, the foot may appear misshapen or have an open wound. A podiatrist will examine the foot and may order imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, or bone scans to determine the extent of the injury. Diagnostic imaging helps identify the exact location and severity of the break. Treatment may involve immobilizing the foot with a cast or splint to promote bone healing and reduce movement. In more severe fractures, surgery may be needed to realign the bones and stabilize them using hardware such as wires or screws. Prompt professional care reduces the risk of long-term complications. If your child has sustained a foot fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an immediate appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Centers for Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Merrillville, Portage, Michigan City/LaPorte, and Schererville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the nail grows into the skin beside it, often affecting the big toe. This can cause swelling, pain, and redness. As an ingrown toenail worsens, the area may become infected, sometimes producing pus and increased tenderness. Common causes of ingrown toenails include trimming the nails too short or with rounded edges, wearing tight shoes, and repeated toe injuries.  Wearing high heels or shoes with a narrow toe box may increase pressure on the nail, adding to the risk of it growing into the skin. People who sweat heavily or have fungal nail infections may also be more prone to developing an ingrown toenail. If the toenail becomes infected or the pain becomes severe, surgery may be needed to remove part of the nail. A podiatrist can provide care that may include nail removal and other treatments to prevent the regrowth of the problem area. If you have symptoms of an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Centers for Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Merrillville, Portage, Michigan City/LaPorte, and Schererville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.