Causes and Symptoms of Bunions

A bunion is a bony deformity that develops at the base of the big toe, where the joint becomes misaligned and pushes outward, creating a noticeable bump on the side of the foot. This condition is often noticeable as the skin is red and swollen over the affected joint, causing discomfort and irritation. Symptoms may include pain, tenderness, and difficulty wearing shoes. Common causes include inherited foot structure, wearing improper footwear, and repetitive stress on the joint, while risk factors include tight shoes, prolonged standing, and certain foot shapes. A podiatrist can assess the condition, recommend treatments, and provide relief strategies. If you notice symptoms of a bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective management solutions for pain relief and guidelines on preventing progression.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of Front Range Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

  • Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
  • Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

  • Redness and inflammation
  • Pain and tenderness
  • Callus or corns on the bump
  • Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Littleton, CO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Types of Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus is a common infection that affects the nail and surrounding skin, leading to discoloration and nail deformity. Subungual fungus develops beneath the nail, causing thickening, crumbling, and dark debris. White superficial fungus appears as white patches on the nail surface that may become rough and powdery. Candida infections affect the nail and surrounding tissue, often leading to swelling, redness, and separation of the nail. Symptoms can include brittleness, odor, and discomfort. Risk factors include warm moist environments, poor foot hygiene, diabetes, and a weakened immune system. A podiatrist can identify the type of infection, provide targeted treatments, such as topical or oral medications, and offer guidance on proper foot care to prevent recurrence. If you notice changes in your toenails, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Front Range Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Littleton, CO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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We Can Treat Your Foot or Ankle Pain

Foot or ankle pain can negatively affect your day-to-day life and can occur due to several different conditions. Pain can also be an indicator of a more serious underlying condition, which is why you should seek professional help as soon as you notice any abnormalities in your feet.

Fall Prevention at Home to Protect Your Feet and Ankles

Preventing falls at home is essential for maintaining safety and protecting foot and ankle health in seniors. Keeping objects off steps, fixing uneven surfaces, and ensuring proper lighting at the top and bottom of stairs can reduce the risk of accidents. Repairing loose carpet and securing handrails adds stability, while installing grab bars in the shower provides additional support in slippery areas. Falls can lead to injuries such as ankle sprains, fractures, and soft tissue damage that affect mobility and independence. A podiatrist can assess balance, evaluate foot structure, and recommend supportive footwear or orthotics to improve stability. If you have injured your foot or ankle from falling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment solutions, and guide you on additional fall prevention tips.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Front Range Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

  • Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
  • Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
  • Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
  • Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
  • Utilizing a walker or cane
  • Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
  • Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Littleton, CO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Reasons for Arch Pain

Arch pain is a common foot-related condition defined as discomfort or inflammation along the curved middle portion of the foot that supports body weight and movement. This area contains important muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that maintain balance and stability while walking. Causes of arch pain include plantar fasciitis, stress fractures within the foot bones, or ligament-related strains that develop from repetitive pressure. Symptoms often involve aching discomfort, tenderness, swelling, and increased pain during walking or standing. Risk factors include prolonged standing, high impact activity, poor footwear support, or abnormal foot mechanics. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, identify the underlying cause, and recommend supportive treatment. If arch discomfort interferes with daily movement, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Front Range Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Littleton, CO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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