Items filtered by date: September 2023

Extensor tendonitis in the feet can occur due to overuse, resulting in pain and discomfort. Extensor tendons play crucial roles in the movement of toes but are vulnerable to injuries. Foot extensor tendonitis typically presents as pain on the top of the foot, often affecting one foot more than the other. It can weaken the tendons, affecting toe movement and push-off ability. Common causes of this condition include wearing tight shoes and running excessively. Diagnosis involves having physical exams and, in some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasounds, or an MRI. Treatment includes rest, stretching, and strengthening exercises. Steroid injections may be necessary for severe cases, with surgery reserved for rare instances. Recovery times can vary. Proper care and prevention can effectively manage extensor tendonitis, allowing a return to regular activities. If you think you may have this affliction, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Ocotillo Foot and Ankle Centers. 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 Chandler, and Phoenix, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working in a warehouse can be physically demanding, and your feet are often the unsung heroes of the operation. Protecting them is crucial for your well-being and productivity. This can begin by investing in high-quality, steel-toed work boots that provide protection against heavy objects and potential impacts. These boots should fit well and provide adequate arch support to reduce fatigue. Wearing moisture-wicking socks can help to keep your feet dry and comfortable throughout the day and may help to reduce the risk of blisters and fungal infections. Inspect your footwear for wear and tear and replace them when necessary. Pay attention to your surroundings and watch out for hazards such as loose debris, slippery surfaces, or falling objects that could impact your feet. Utilize safety equipment such as toe guards and metatarsal guards when handling heavy machinery or materials. Additionally, taking breaks to rest and stretch your legs and feet can help prevent muscle strain and maintain circulation. Your feet must stay healthy and injury-free in the demanding environment of a warehouse. If you would like more information about what type of shoes to buy for your given profession, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist.

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 Ocotillo Foot and Ankle Centers. 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 our offices located in Chandler, and Phoenix, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Selecting the right running shoe is crucial for a comfortable and injury-free running experience. This can begin by determining your foot type, which can consist of overpronator, supinator, or neutral. Overpronators need shoes with extra stability, while supinators benefit from cushioning and flexibility. Neutral runners require a balance between both. This is followed by considering your running terrain. Trail runners can choose shoes with durable outsoles and adequate grip, while road runners can go for lighter options with more cushioning. Pay attention to shoe size, ensuring ample room for toe splay, while preventing excessive movement. It is beneficial to try shoes on in the afternoon when your feet are at their largest. The fit can be tested by running or jogging in the store, if possible. Additionally, consider your running goals and any specific needs you have, such as arch support or wide widths. If you would like more information about the various types of running shoes and which one is best for you, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Ocotillo Foot and Ankle Centers. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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

Ingrown toenails can be more than just a nuisance. They can cause considerable discomfort and pain. This common condition occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to inflammation. The causes of ingrown toenails can vary, ranging from improper trimming techniques to wearing ill-fitting shoes. Symptoms often include pain, redness, and swelling at the affected site. Additionally, pus or clear fluid may develop if an infection sets in. Certain risk factors heighten the likelihood of developing ingrown toenails, such as genetics, having curved nails, poor foot hygiene, and engaging in activities that put pressure on the toes. Understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and being aware of risk factors can empower individuals to take preventive measures and seek timely treatment for this uncomfortable condition. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer you treatment options that are correct for you.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Ocotillo Foot and Ankle Centers. 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

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. 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 our offices located in Chandler, and Phoenix, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.