A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe, as the top of the toe leans inward. It may appear red, swollen, and feel painful or stiff, especially when walking or wearing tight shoes. Common causes include inherited foot structure, arthritis, or wearing narrow footwear. Symptoms range from mild discomfort to persistent pain, limited movement, and visible deformity. A podiatrist can diagnose a bunion through a physical exam and X-rays. Non-surgical treatments include custom orthotics, padding, anti-inflammatory medication, or shoe modifications to relieve pressure. If conservative methods fail and pain interferes with daily life, surgery may be considered. Surgical benefits include pain relief and improved foot alignment, but risks may include infection, nerve damage, or a lengthy recovery. Every case is unique, and a podiatrist can help determine the best course of action. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for proper evaluation and care.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Jennifer Swan, DPM of Right Step Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

test

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Jennifer Swan, DPM of Right Step Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Westerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Cracked heels occur when the skin on the heels becomes dry, thick, and splits, often causing pain or bleeding. Common causes include walking barefoot, wearing open back shoes, using harsh soaps, vitamin deficiencies, in addition to fungal infections, or underlying conditions such as thyroid disorders. These factors can weaken the skin’s natural barrier, leading to rough and painful fissures. Proper foot care is essential to restore moisture and prevent infection. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause, remove thickened skin safely, and recommend treatments such as moisturizing creams or custom orthotics. Do not ignore painful or unsightly cracks on your heels as they can become worse, possibly leading to an infection. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Jennifer Swan, DPM from Right Step Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

If you are overweight, or wear high heeled/narrow-toed shoes, you may be more at risk for developing Morton’s Neuroma. Morton’s Neuroma is a non-cancerous thickening of the nerve between toes, usually the 3rd and 4th toes, which causes tingling, burning, inflammation and irritation. As the thickened nerve expands, it becomes further irritated by the surrounding bones and ligaments it comes in contact with. Morton’s Neuroma—also known as interdigital neuroma, intermetatarsal neuroma, and forefoot neuroma—typically occurs in only one foot and is more common in women than men. If you experience pain or feel as if a pebble is stuck in the ball of your foot, contact a podiatrist for proper treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Jennifer Swan, DPM of Right Step Foot Care. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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