A bunion is a common foot condition that causes a visible bony protrusion to form at the base of the big or pinky toe. Bunions vary in severity, so while some may be mild, others can be painful. If a bunion is causing discomfort or pain, this could potentially lead to other foot ailments due to a shift in gait. Treatment for bunions usually begins with a change in footwear. Wearing narrow, tight, and pointed footwear can intensify an already existing bunion. Switching to wider shoes that fit properly and offer support should help to alleviate some of the symptoms associated with bunions. Shoe inserts that help improve arch support and toe spacers are also recommended in treating bunions. If these conservative methods don't provide relief, it is suggested that you consult with a local podiatrist. 

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Arthur Segall, Jr., DPM of Segall Foot and Ankle. 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?

Podiatrists 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 provider.

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 offices located in Plantation, FL Ft. Lauderdale, F . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ankle sprain and a fracture can feel very similar, making it easy to mistake one for the other. Both ankle injuries cause pain, swelling, and bruising, but a fracture involves a break in one or more bones. Fractures of the talus, fibula, or calcaneus bones can occur from a twisting injury, fall, or sudden impact. The resulting pain is often severe causing difficulty while bearing weight. Unlike a sprain, a fracture can produce sharp tenderness over a specific bone, and movement of the ankle may cause intense pain. If left untreated, a fracture that is mistaken for a sprain can result in joint stiffness, deformity, or long-term instability that affects the ability to walk. A podiatrist can evaluate the injured ankle through X-rays or other imaging tests and recommend the treatment that fits the injury. If you have injured your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Arthur Segall, Jr., DPM from Segall Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Plantation, FL Ft. Lauderdale, F . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Spending long hours on your feet at work places stress on the arches, heels, and toes, which can lead to aching, swelling, or stiffness. The constant pressure can strain the plantar fascia, which is the band of tissue along the bottom of the foot, and weaken the muscles that provide arch support. Standing for long periods of time also slows circulation, which contributes to swelling and discomfort in the ankles and feet. Shoes that lack adequate support, such as flip-flops or high-heels, increase pressure on the forefoot and may contribute to bunions, corns, and heel pain. In some cases, prolonged strain leads to inflammation of tendons or ligaments, making walking or standing even more difficult. A podiatrist can assess the source of the problem, prescribe custom orthotics, recommend changes in footwear, or provide medical treatment to relieve pain. If standing at work for long periods of time is causing foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Arthur Segall, Jr., DPM from Segall Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Plantation, FL Ft. Lauderdale, F . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Sesamoiditis is a type of foot tendonitis that affects the two small bones located beneath the big toe joint. This condition occurs when the tendons surrounding these sesamoid bones become inflamed, typically due to overuse or repetitive pressure. Symptoms of sesamoiditis include pain beneath the big toe, swelling, and tenderness, especially when walking, running, or bearing weight on the affected foot. You may also have trouble moving the toe, or it may be uncomfortable while wearing shoes. The primary causes of sesamoiditis are activities that place repetitive pressure on the big toe, such as running, ballet, or jumping. Wearing ill-fitting shoes or high heels can also contribute to this condition. A podiatrist can help diagnose sesamoiditis through physical exams and imaging. tests. Treatments may include anti-inflammatory medications, custom orthotics to relieve pressure, or targeted exercises to strengthen the foot. In severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be considered. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Arthur Segall, Jr., DPM of Segall Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Plantation, FL Ft. Lauderdale, F . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.