Causes and Symptoms of Bunions
Bunions, medically known as hallux valgus, are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe due to a gradual misalignment of the foot’s structure. This condition occurs when the big toe leans toward the second toe, forcing the joint to protrude outward. Bunions often result from inherited foot mechanics, such as flat feet, loose joints, or abnormal gait patterns. Other contributing factors include foot injuries, inflammatory joint conditions like arthritis, and nerve or muscle disorders. Although narrow footwear can irritate the joint and worsen symptoms, it is not the root cause. Common signs include a swollen bump at the base of the big toe, pain, redness, and restricted motion. Some people also develop corns, calluses, or a burning sensation in the affected area. A chiropodist can provide a proper diagnosis, recommend orthotic support, and help relieve discomfort through non-invasive care. If you notice a painful bump on your big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for advice.
Bunions progressively worsen over time and may cause walking in your shoes to become difficult. To learn more about bunions, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Are Bunions?
A bunion is a bony bump that protrudes from the base of the big toe. Bunions are caused due to a misalignment of the first metatarsal. The characteristic bump of a bunion forms when the metatarsal shifts outwards from its proper position. Bunions develop slowly over time and progressively worsen without treatment. The skin over the bunion may develop calluses due to the friction from shoes. Eventually, a bunion can make walking uncomfortable or even painful. Bunions are one of the most common foot deformities and are especially common in women and older adults.
Symptoms
A bunion appears as a bulging bump on the outside of the base of the big toe.
The bunion may also:
- Be swollen, red, or sore
- Develop corns or calluses over it
- Cause pain
- Limit the big toe’s range of motion
Treatment
There are several different treatments available for bunions. Conservative treatment options include wearing shoes with a wider toe box, cushioning the bunion with a specialized pad, wearing shoe inserts, icing the bunion if it becomes inflamed, and taking medications to relieve pain. In more severe cases, more invasive procedures may be done. This may involve removing the swollen tissue around the bunion, straightening the big toe, realigning the bones at the front of the foot, or a combination of these procedures.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Scarborough, ON .
Bunions
A bunion is a bony bump that develops on the outside of the big toe, at the base of the big toe joint. Over time, a bunion can cause the big toe to move out of its proper alignment and lean towards the second toe. The bunion may become painful, stiff, red, and swollen. Calluses sometimes form on top of the bunion as the bunion rubs against the inside of your shoe as you walk. Calluses can also form on the area where your big toe rubs against your second toe, or on the ball of the foot.
Bunions are extremely common, especially in older adults and women, although children can develop bunions or, in very rare cases, be born with them. What exactly causes bunions is unclear. They may occur as a result of a genetic predisposition due to the shape and structure of the foot or because of one’s gait. Wearing shoes that are too tight, have excessively high heels, or narrow, pointed toes may contribute to the development of bunions. Certain medical conditions, such as arthritis and flat feet, may make bunions more likely as well.
Bunions can be treated through conservative methods such as switching the shoes that you wear for shoes that are wider and more comfortable, wearing custom orthotics, wearing pads placed over the bunion to reduce pain, taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, and icing the foot. When conservative treatments are not effective, invasive procedures may be recommended. For more information about bunions, please consult with a chiropodist.
Keep Your Feet Healthy So You Can Stay Active
Have your feet inspected by a professional before starting a new sport or physical activity. Taking charge of your foot health will keep you in good physical condition and can help you avoid a potential injury, such as a fracture or sprained ankle.
Prevent injuries and see a foot specialist.
Symptoms and Causes of Ankle Sprains
An ankle sprain occurs when one or more of the ligaments that support the ankle joint are stretched or torn, often due to a sudden twist, fall, or misstep. This type of injury often happens during sporting activities or while walking on uneven ground. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, stiffness, and difficulty putting weight on the affected foot. Patients also may also feel coldness or numbness in the area. Ankle sprains are graded by severity. A grade 1 sprain involves minor stretching of ligaments, while a grade 2 sprain includes partial tears and increased discomfort. A grade 3 sprain results in complete ligament tears, severe instability, and an inability to walk. People with high arches or weak ankle muscles may be more prone to this injury. Repeated sprains can lead to chronic ankle problems. A chiropodist can diagnose the severity of the ankle sprain and recommend bracing or immobilization, if needed. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for guidance.
When one or more ligaments in the ankle overstretch or tear due to injury, an ankle sprain occurs. If you would like to learn more about ankle sprains, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility.
Symptoms of an ankle sprain vary depending on the severity of the injury, but may include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Tenderness
- Difficulty walking
- Ankle instability
- A reduced range of motion in the ankle
Treatments for an ankle sprain may consist of:
- Resting the injured ankle
- Applying ice
- Elevating the ankle
- Compressing the ankle
- Over-the-counter pain medications
- Ankle braces or other devices to take weight off of the ankle
- Ankle exercises
- Surgery (in rare cases)
It’s important for the sprained ankle to heal correctly and fully in order to avoid repeated injury. If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Scarborough, ON .
Ankle Sprains
A sprained ankle is a common injury that can happen to anyone. Whether you incur it while playing a high-impact sport or from simply stepping off of a curb and twisting your ankle, it’s important to know and recognize the symptoms of a sprain and get the appropriate treatment.
Ankle sprains occur when a sudden injury causes one or more of the ligaments that support the ankle to overstretch or tear. The symptoms that you may face depend on the severity of the injury. A mild, grade 1 sprain usually involves minimal pain, swelling, tenderness, and bruising, with no difficulty walking. A moderate, grade 2 sprain may be significantly more painful, with visible swelling and bruising, ankle instability, and a limited range of motion in the ankle. Walking or bearing weight on the affected ankle can be difficult. A severe, grade 3 sprain is characterized by intense pain, swelling, bruising, ankle instability, and a severely limited range of motion. Walking with a grade 3 sprain is often impossible.
A chiropodist can diagnose an ankle sprain by asking for your medical history and carefully examining the affected ankle. They may order an X-ray to rule out a fracture. Treatment for the sprain depends on its severity. Milder ankle sprains can often be treated with conservative methods such as resting, icing, elevating, and compressing the ankle. More severe sprains may require wearing a brace or other orthotic device to take pressure off of the injured ankle. Over-the-counter medications are typically sufficient for managing pain. In very rare cases, surgery may be needed to repair a ligament that is not healing properly.
A sprained ankle needs to heal fully and properly in order to avoid reinjury and other complications. If you have sprained your ankle, please seek the care of a chiropodist.
Types of Achilles Tendon Injuries in Dancers
Dancers place significant stress on the Achilles tendon, making it vulnerable to injury. Repetitive jumping, sudden directional changes, and excessive pointe work can strain the tendon, leading to inflammation or tears. Improper warm-ups, tight calf muscles, and overtraining increase the risk of injury. Wearing supportive footwear, strengthening the lower leg, and incorporating flexibility exercises help prevent strain. Tendonitis occurs when the tendon becomes inflamed, causing stiffness and pain, especially during movement. A rupture is a more severe injury, involving a partial or complete tear, often accompanied by a sharp pain and difficulty pushing off the foot. Early treatment and rest can aid recovery and reduce long-term damage. If you have pain in the lower back of the leg, it is suggested that you promptly contact a chiropodist.
Achilles tendonitis is a common injury of the Achilles tendon, a band of fibrous tissue that runs along the back of the lower leg. The Achilles tendon can also rupture, making it impossible to lift the foot. If you are suffering from heel or calf pain, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility.
Causes of Achilles tendon injuries include:
- Repetitive stress or overuse
- Sudden increase in activity levels
- High impact injury
- Calf muscle tightness or weakness
- Altered foot biomechanics
- Heel bone spurs
- Underlying medical conditions that weaken the tendon
Symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury include:
- Heel and calf pain that worsens following exercise
- Chronic heel and calf pain
- Sudden pain in the back of the ankle or calf
- A popping or snapping sensation
- Thickened lump in the Achilles tendon
- Ankle and calf stiffness
- Decreased range of motion in the affected foot
- Swelling
- Difficulty walking
Treatment
- Resting the affected leg
- Applying ice
- Compressing the foot and ankle
- Elevating the injured leg
- Wearing orthotics
- Low impact exercises
- Stretches
- Strengthening exercises
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications
- Cortisone injections
- Surgery, if the tendon is ruptured
Achilles tendon injuries can be very painful and lead to reduced mobility if left untreated. If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Scarborough, ON .
Achilles Tendon Injuries
The Achilles tendon, located at the back of the lower leg, is a strong band of fibrous tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. There are several different types of Achilles tendon injuries. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendonitis and Achilles tendon ruptures.
When the tendon is injured due to repetitive strain and overuse, it can result in a condition called Achilles tendonitis. This injury is characterized by inflammation of the Achilles tendon, heel and calf pain, thickening of the tendon, ankle and calf stiffness, and a decreased range of motion. In the initial stages of Achilles tendonitis, pain primarily occurs following physical activity, but it can become constant and chronic if the injury is left untreated.
When the Achilles tendon fully tears, it is known as an Achilles tendon rupture. This usually occurs following a sudden, high-impact injury. Symptoms include a sudden, stabbing pain in the back of the affected leg, a popping or snapping sensation, swelling, and difficulty walking and raising the foot. This condition requires prompt treatment to prevent further damage to the tendon.
There are a variety of treatments available for Achilles tendon injuries. Achilles tendonitis can often be treated through conservative methods, such as resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot, wearing orthotics, taking over-the-counter pain medications, and doing gentle stretches. Achilles tendon ruptures may require surgical treatment to avoid reinjury. For more information about Achilles tendon injuries, please consult with a chiropodist.
Causes and Treatment of Gout
Gout is a long-term form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a build-up of uric acid in the joints. When the body is unable to remove excess uric acid, sharp crystals can form, leading to sudden episodes of intense joint pain, swelling, and heat. The big toe is a common target of gout, causing painful flare-ups that often occur at night and can last for several days. Even after the pain subsides, uric acid crystals may remain in the joint, which increases the risk of future attacks and long-term damage. If left untreated, gout can lead to joint stiffness, visible lumps under the skin known as tophi, and kidney issues. Effective treatment includes medication to manage pain and lower uric acid levels. A chiropodist can monitor joint health, advise on footwear to reduce strain, and provide ongoing care to improve foot function. If you are experiencing flare-ups from gout, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist for help.
Gout is a painful form of arthritis that can affect anyone. Please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Gout?
Gout is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. This type of arthritis is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. When uric acid crystallizes in a joint, often the joint of the big toe, it can bring about a gout attack.
Symptoms
Symptoms of gout include:
- Sudden and severe pain
- Swelling
- Redness
- Warmth
- Joint stiffness
- Joint deformity
Diagnosis
A chiropodist will ask questions about your personal and family medical history, followed by an examination of the affected joint. Laboratory tests and x-rays are sometimes ordered to determine if the inflammation is caused by something other than gout. A sample of fluid taken from your joint can show whether it contains uric acid.
Treatment
Prescription medications or injections are used to treat the pain, swelling, and inflammation. Patients with chronic gout can also use behavioral modifications such as diet, exercise, and decreased intake of alcohol to help minimize the frequency of gout attacks. Foods and beverages that are high in purines should be avoided since purines are converted in the body to uric acid. If left untreated, this painful condition can leave your joint permanently damaged and swollen.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Scarborough, ON .
Gout
Gout is a type of arthritis that can affect the foot. Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. When uric acid levels become excessive, this substance can create crystals in the joints, causing severe pain, intense swelling, redness, and warmth. Typically this occurs in the big toe joint.
You may be at an increased risk of developing gout if you are a middle-aged man or postmenopausal woman, have family members who have had gout, drink alcohol, take certain medications, or have a medical condition like high blood pressure, kidney disease, thyroid disease, diabetes, or sleep apnea. Gout may also be more likely to develop if you consume a diet high in sugars or purines, a substance that turns into uric acid when it breaks down. Foods high in purines include organ meats, red meat, oily fish, certain vegetables, beans, and mushrooms.
Gout that is left untreated can become chronic and lead to arthritis. Gout can be treated by a chiropodist. Treatment options may include taking medications to relieve pain and prevent future gout attacks, modifying your diet, and reducing alcohol intake. For more information about gout, please consult with a chiropodist.
Causes and Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot, or tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, most often between the toes. It is usually spread through contact with contaminated surfaces like gym floors, showers, towels, or bathmats, especially in warm, damp environments. People are more likely to develop this infection if they have consistently sweaty feet, small cuts or cracks in the skin, or if they frequently walk barefoot in public areas. Medical conditions that weaken the immune system, such as diabetes, may also increase the risk. Symptoms can include itching, burning, peeling skin, redness, or white patches between the toes. In some cases, blisters or oozing may occur if the infection becomes more severe. Although athlete’s foot is common and not usually dangerous, untreated infections can spread to other areas like the toenails or groin and may lead to bacterial skin infections. A chiropodist can assess the condition, recommend appropriate antifungal treatment, and help prevent further complications. If you are experiencing symptoms of an athlete's foot infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for advice.
Athlete’s foot can be uncomfortable and unsightly. To learn more about preventing and treating this condition, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Athlete’s Foot?
Athlete’s foot refers to an infection of the skin on the feet that is caused by a fungus. This fungus is contagious and thrives in warm and moist environments. It is often spread in common areas such as public pools, locker rooms, and showers. It can also spread when sharing personal items, like shoes or towels, with an infected person.
Symptoms
The symptoms of athlete’s foot may include:
- Itching, stinging, or burning of the skin on the feet
- Cracking or peeling skin, especially between the toes and on the soles of the feet
- Scaly, red rash on the foot
- Blisters
- Foul odor
Treatment
Treatment for athlete’s foot typically involves using over-the-counter topical antifungal medications on the feet. When over-the-counter options are ineffective, you may need to take prescription oral medications or topical antifungal drugs, or a combination of both.
Prevention
Preventing athlete’s foot places an emphasis on good foot hygiene practices.
You can prevent athlete’s foot by:
- Washing and drying your feet thoroughly every day
- Wearing shoes when walking in public areas
- Not sharing personal items, like shoes or socks, with others
- Wearing shoes and socks made out of breathable materials
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Scarborough, ON .