There are various reasons why pain in the big toe can happen. The foot condition that is known as gout causes sharp pain in the joints of the big toe. Many people notice the pain can begin at night, and happens as a result of excess uric acid that collects in the toe joints. Having an ingrown toenail can cause intense toe pain. This condition occurs when the nail grows into the skin of the side of the toe instead of over it, and can be accompanied by swelling, redness, and tenderness. The ligaments in the toe are affected when turf toe happens, and can be a common injury among athletes. A bony lump that forms on the side of the big toe may indicate a bunion has developed. The gradual movement of this toe may cause the other toes to shift toward each other, and larger shoes may need to be purchased. If you have toe pain, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer effective treatment solutions. 

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Georgia Blue Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

Wearing orthotics may be a wise choice for people who have had a previous foot injury. It may also benefit patients who have an abnormal foot structure, because it may help to realign the foot. There are several types of orthotics that are available, rigid, semi-rigid, cushioned, and flat cushion. A rigid orthotic does not bend and is made of hard materials. The semi-rigid orthotic can be firm and moderately flexible. A cushioned orthotic is not firm and is constructed with cushioning materials. Lastly, an orthotic that does not have support is referred to as a flat cushion. Choosing what type of orthotics to purchase largely depends on the specific foot condition that needs to be addressed. Foot ailments that may require orthotics to be worn can include Morton’s neuroma, bunions, or hammertoe. Additionally, wearing orthotics may be helpful for people who stand for the majority of the day. If you have a certain type of foot condition that may benefit by wearing orthotics, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can determine what the best type is for you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Georgia Blue Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Douglasville, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many people take their feet for granted, even though they are the foundation of the body. The feet will feel better when everyday foot care methods are routinely applied, which can begin with washing and drying the feet thoroughly. This can be followed by using a good moisturizer and trimming the toenails once per week. It is beneficial to cut the toenails straight across instead of in a curved fashion, and this may be helpful in preventing an ingrown toenail from developing. When the skin on the feet is regularly exfoliated, the removal of dead skin can make them feel softer. Exfoliating can be accomplished using a pumice stone, and it can help to soak the feet in warm water before beginning this procedure. It is beneficial to wear shoes that fit correctly, which can help to prevent several uncomfortable foot conditions from developing. If you would like more information about successful everyday foot care tips, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Georgia Blue Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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