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What Is Turf Toe?

Turf toe is an injury affecting the first metatarsophalangeal joint at the base of the big toe, often caused by hyperextension or excessive upward bending. Athletes who play on artificial turf or participate in sports requiring sudden stops and pushes are at higher risk. Causes include repetitive stress, trauma, or wearing improper footwear. Symptoms may involve pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty pushing off the foot during movement. Without proper care, turf toe can lead to chronic discomfort or long-term joint problems. A podiatrist can diagnose the injury, provide treatment, and recommend supportive footwear. If you have toe pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, 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.

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 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.

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Are Flip-Flops Good for the Feet?

Many people enjoy wearing lighter clothes during the warm summer months, and that includes footwear. Flip-flops are easy to put on, and come in a variety of colors and styles. Research has indicated that it may be harmful to the feet when flip-flops are worn for the majority of the day. This can be due to a lack of an arch, and the toes typically grasp the front of the shoe to keep it on the foot. The style of walking may change to accommodate the type of flip-flop that is worn, and minimal protection may be offered for the feet. It may be beneficial to alternate supportive shoes with flip-flops, and a strap across the back of the shoe may help the shoe to stay on the foot. If you choose to wear flip-flops, and would like more information about what type of flip-flops to wear, please consult with a podiatrist.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Centers for Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

  • Ankle problems
  • Hip problems
  • Lower back problems
  • Pain in the balls of the feet
  • Problems with foot arches
  • Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

  • Sprained ankles
  • Blisters
  • Infections
  • Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

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.

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Understanding Midfoot Arthritis

Midfoot arthritis happens when the joints in the middle of the foot lose their protective cartilage, which normally cushions and allows smooth movement. Without this cushion, the bones begin to rub together, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. Since the midfoot plays a key role in supporting body weight and helping with walking, even simple activities like standing on uneven ground or climbing stairs can become difficult when arthritis develops. Many people also notice discomfort when wearing shoes lacking adequate support. Treatment for midfoot arthritis often begins with supportive footwear or custom orthotics that can help by redistributing pressure across the foot. Medications or corticosteroid injections may reduce inflammation and pain. Targeted exercises  can improve strength and mobility surrounding the affected joints. If these measures are not enough, surgery such as joint fusion may be considered to stabilize the foot and relieve symptoms. If you have midfoot pain that persists, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for proper evaluation and appropriate treatment.

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 joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

  • Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
  • Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
  • Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

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.

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Is It Growing Pains or Something More?

Sever's disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a common cause of heel pain in growing children, especially those who are active in sports. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress or tension from the Achilles tendon. Symptoms include heel pain during or after physical activity, limping, tenderness at the back of the heel, swelling, and difficulty walking or running. The pain may feel sharp or aching and typically worsens with movement. Sever's disease is most common during growth spurts, often between the ages of eight and 14. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition through a physical examination and a review of the child’s activity level and symptoms. Treatment may include heel supports, stretching exercises, and changes in footwear. If your child is experiencing heel pain during growth, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate care.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Centers for Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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.

Read more about Sever's Disease

Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

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