Bunions and bunionettes are both bony bumps that form at the base of a toe, but they develop in different places. A bunion forms at the joint of the big toe as the top of the toe leans toward the smaller toes. This can create pain, swelling, and trouble wearing shoes comfortably. A bunionette forms at the base of the little toe on the outer side of the foot. It is usually smaller, but can still cause rubbing, redness, and discomfort. Bunions are more common and are often linked to foot structure, family history, and shoe pressure. Bunionettes are also often related to inherited foot shape. A podiatrist can examine the foot, take X-rays, and provide treatment. Options include orthotics, padding, shoe guidance, or surgery when the deformity is severe. If you have pain from a bunion or bunionette, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief solutions. 

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of Arcadia Foot and Ankle. 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 Scottsdale, North Scottsdale, Mesa, and Sun City, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken toe may seem minor, but fractures of the toe bones can make running, jumping, and even walking painful. Athletes often feel swelling, bruising, and discomfort when pushing off the ground. Because the toes help with balance and movement, proper healing is important before returning to sports. Treatment depends on how severe the break is. Many toe fractures can heal with rest, taping the injured toe to a neighboring one, and wearing a stiff-soled shoe to protect it. Limiting activity for several weeks allows the bone to recover. Elevation can also help reduce pain and swelling. Surgery may be needed if the bone is out of place, involves the joint, or does not heal correctly. In these cases, small pins or screws may be used to hold the bone in position. A safe return to sports should be gradual and guided by a podiatrist. If you have a toe injury, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Arcadia Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Scottsdale, North Scottsdale, Mesa, and Sun City, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar warts are small, rough growths that develop on the soles of the feet due to the human papillomavirus, often entering through tiny cuts in the skin. They may appear as thickened areas with black pinpoint dots, and can cause discomfort or pain while walking or standing. These warts are contagious and can spread in warm, moist environments such as locker rooms or around pools. Treatment depends on severity and persistence. Options include over-the-counter salicylic acid, cryotherapy to freeze the wart, or in-office procedures to remove the affected tissue. In some cases, multiple treatments are needed for full resolution. Avoiding barefoot exposure in public areas and keeping feet clean and dry can help prevent recurrence. If a plantar wart becomes painful or does not improve with treatment, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for proper care.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Arcadia Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Scottsdale, North Scottsdale, Mesa, and Sun City, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Thick toenails often develop due to underlying conditions that affect nail growth and structure. The most common cause is toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, which leads to discoloration, thickening, and brittle nails. Other conditions include onychauxis, characterized by abnormal nail thickening without infection, and onycholysis, where the nail separates from the nail bed and may appear white or discolored. Symptoms can include crumbling edges, foul odor, and discomfort while wearing shoes. Risk factors include poor foot hygiene, damp environments, aging, and compromised circulation. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the condition, providing targeted treatments, and guiding proper foot care. If you notice changes in your toenails, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Arcadia 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 contact our offices located in Scottsdale, North Scottsdale, Mesa, and Sun City, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.