October 2019

A corn can form on different parts of the foot as a result of excess friction. It is defined as a hard, thickened area, and will typically cause severe pain and discomfort. If the shoes that are worn do not fit properly, a corn may form on the inside of the pinky toe. Relief may be found if a pad is worn over the affected area. Additionally, it may help to soak the affected foot in warm water, as this may aid in softening the corn. Afterward, a pumice stone can be used in gently filing the corn to remove any dead skin. When toenails are properly trimmed, pressure may be avoided from the nail touching the skin, and this may help to prevent corns from developing. If you are afflicted with corns, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can assist you in choosing the proper treatment.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Michigan Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Ferndale, and Milford, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Patients who have pain and discomfort in between the third and fourth toes may have a condition that is referred to as Morton’s Neuroma. Additionally, pain can be felt on the on the ball of the foot, and under the toes. This condition is defined as a thickening of nerve tissue, and can cause a sharp, burning pain. A common reason why this ailment may develop can be connected to wearing high heels. This may be a result of not having ample room for the toes to move freely in. Moderate relief may be obtained if lower-heeled shoes are worn. If existing medical conditions are present such as hammertoes or bunions, the likelihood may increase for Morton’s neuroma to develop. After a diagnosis is performed, which typically includes having an X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI taken, the correct treatment process can begin. It is strongly advised to discuss your symptoms with a podiatrist who can offer you correct methods to manage this ailment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Michigan Foot and Ankle. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Ferndale, and Milford, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A large bump on the side of the big toe may indicate that a bunion has developed. It is considered to be a deformity, and calluses may form on the top as a result of friction against shoes that are worn. Additionally, blisters may appear, and it may become painful, red, and swollen. Common causes why bunions can develop can consist of genetic factors, and wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. Research has indicated that patients who are afflicted with arthritis may notice a bunion forming over painful joints in the big toe. There may be methods that can be implemented which may help to prevent bunions from developing. These can include wearing shoes that have a lower heel, and avoiding backless shoes. If you have a bunion, it is suggested that you seek the advice of a podiatrist who can offer you correct methods of treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Michigan Foot and Ankle. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Ferndale, and Milford, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

People who enjoy the sport of running and jogging are generally aware of the importance of properly stretching before starting their practice. Pointing and flexing the toes may help the feet to remain flexible, and this can be beneficial in preventing foot and ankle injuries. It is important to choose running shoes that fit properly, ensuring there is adequate room for the toes to move freely in. The muscles can become strong by incorporating strength training into your gym practice, and this can positively affect the overall health of the body. When beginning to run, it is helpful to start slowly, while gradually increasing the speed and distance. If you would like additional information about how to prevent running injuries that can affect the feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist. 

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Michigan Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Ferndale, and Milford, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Research has indicated that approximately half of the population is affected with nail fungus, and it is most likely to occur in the toenails. It is caused by a fungal infection, and typically develops in the big toe. There are several symptoms that are associated with this ailment. These can include a yellowing of the nail, and it may appear brittle and dull. In severe cases, the nail may produce a foul odor, and can lift from the nail bed. The fungus that causes this contagious condition lives and thrives in warm and moist areas. These can consist of public swimming pools and locker room floors. There may be preventive measures that can be taken that can include wearing appropriate shoes while in these types of environments, in addition to wearing shoes and socks that are made of a breathable material. If you notice a toenail fungus is developing, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can offer you proper treatment techniques.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Michigan Foot and Ankle. 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 feel free to contact one of our offices located in Ferndale, and Milford, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

When a toenail grows into the skin instead of over it, it’s referred to as an ingrown toenail. Ingrown toenails generally cause severe pain and discomfort, and shoes may become difficult to wear. Some associated symptoms include pus draining from the sides of the nail and the surrounding skin turning red and swollen. Common reasons why ingrown toenails develop include trimming the toenail incorrectly, wearing shoes and socks that are too tight, or an injury that has occurred to the toe. Patients who have this ailment may find moderate relief when the toe is soaked in warm water. This helps soften the skin around the nail. If the area becomes infected, seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly treat ingrown toenails.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Michigan Foot and Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Ferndale, and Milford, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Symptoms that are indicative of a broken toe often include severe pain, swelling, and bruising. It can become fractured as a result of a heavy object that has fallen on it, or if it is stubbed against a piece of furniture. The most common toes to break are the big and pinky toes, and this may happen because they are the least protected. If you feel you have broken your toe, it is helpful to have a proper diagnosis performed. This typically consists of having an X-ray taken, which is generally the most effective method in determining if a fracture has occurred. Many patients find relief in taping the affected toe to the one next to it. This is referred to as “buddy taping”, and may help to stabilize the toe as the healing process takes place. If you have broken your toe, please consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the correct treatment.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Michigan Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Ferndale, and Milford, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.