Bunions are a deformity at the base of the big toe where the joint shifts out of alignment, creating a visible bump and pain. Diagnosis usually begins with a physical exam and a review of symptoms, followed by X-rays to measure the angle of the toe and assess joint damage. A podiatrist evaluates how the foot functions and identifies factors like abnormal pressure or poor alignment. Bunion treatment depends on severity. Early care often focuses on reducing pressure and improving foot mechanics with custom orthotics, padding, or anti-inflammatory care. These methods help control symptoms but do not correct the deformity. When pain persists or the bunion worsens, surgery may be recommended. Procedures can realign the bones, remove the bony bump, and restore proper joint position to improve movement and reduce pain. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . 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 offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Arthritis in the big toe can cause pain, stiffness, and limited movement that makes walking uncomfortable. This affects the joint at the base of the toe, where the tissue that cushions bone ends starts to wear down. As the joint becomes irritated, motion may decrease and pain may increase during activity. Treatment focuses on reducing stress on the joint and improving how the foot functions. A podiatrist can provide custom orthotic devices to limit joint strain and improve alignment. Medication may be used to reduce inflammation and ease discomfort. In some cases, targeted injections into the joint can help relieve pain and swelling. When arthritis becomes more advanced, surgery may be recommended to remove bone growth, improve joint motion, or stabilize the joint. A podiatrist will adjust treatment based on the severity of the arthritis and the patient’s activity level. If you are experiencing pain from arthritis in the toes, feet or ankles, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for help.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in growing children, especially those involved in sports or frequent activity. It occurs when the growth plate in their heel becomes irritated from repetitive stress and pulling of the Achilles tendon. Children may complain of pain at the back or bottom of the heel that worsens with running or jumping and improves with rest. The area may look slightly swollen and feel tender to the touch, and some children may begin to limp or avoid activity. A podiatrist can diagnose Sever’s disease through a physical exam and by reviewing activity levels and growth patterns. Treatment includes supportive footwear, heel cushions, activity modification, and targeted exercises to reduce strain on the heel. Most cases improve as the growth plate matures. If your child has heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

As people grow older, the feet naturally undergo changes that may increase the risk of discomfort and foot-related conditions. The supportive tissues of the feet may gradually lose elasticity and cushioning, which can lead to increased pressure on joints and bones. These changes may make older people more susceptible to foot pain and mobility concerns. Common foot problems associated with aging include arthritis, bunions, plantar fasciitis, and hammertoes. Symptoms may involve stiffness, swelling, reduced flexibility, and discomfort while walking or standing. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, diagnose underlying conditions, and recommend personalized treatment, such as supportive footwear guidance, custom orthotic devices, and targeted care. If you are elderly and have developed foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and prevention tips.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.