Putting Your Best Foot Forward: Common Podiatry Issues and How to Treat Them

Foot health is essential to overall well-being, but it’s often overlooked until problems arise. Common podiatry issues can range from mild annoyances to debilitating conditions that affect mobility and quality of life. This blog post will explore some of the most prevalent foot problems and discuss treatment options, including conservative approaches and when surgical intervention might be necessary.

1. Bunions

Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe and are often caused by genetics, ill-fitting shoes, or foot deformities. They can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Treatment options from doctors at our North Houston surgical hospital include:

• Conservative measures: Wearing wider shoes, orthotics, padding, and pain relievers can alleviate symptoms.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery (bunionectomy) may be recommended to realign the joint and remove the bony prominence.

2. Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the thick band of tissue (plantar fascia) that runs across the bottom of the foot. It causes heel pain, particularly with the first steps in the morning. Treatment options include:

• Conservative measures: Rest, ice, stretching exercises, orthotics, and physical therapy are often effective.
• Surgery: In rare cases where conservative treatments fail, surgical intervention may be considered to release the plantar fascia.

 

3. Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are a common podiatry issue. They occur when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. Treatment options that we offer at our North Houston surgical hospital include:

• Conservative measures: Soaking the foot in warm water, keeping the area clean, and wearing comfortable shoes can help.
• Minor procedures: A podiatrist can perform a minor procedure to remove the ingrown portion of the nail.
• Surgery: In recurrent or severe cases, surgical removal of part or all of the nail and the underlying nail bed may be necessary.

4. Hammertoes

Hammertoes are deformities where the toes bend at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. They can be caused by muscle imbalances, arthritis, or ill-fitting shoes. Treatment options include:

• Conservative measures: Wearing shoes with a wide toe box, toe exercises, and orthotics can help manage symptoms.
• Surgery: In more severe cases, surgery may be required to straighten the toe joint.

5. Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis is inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It’s a common podiatry issue that causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in the back of the heel. Treatment options we offer at TOPS Surgical Specialty Hospital include:

• Conservative measures: Rest, ice, stretching exercises, and physical therapy are often effective.
• Surgery: In rare cases where conservative treatments fail, surgery may be considered to repair the tendon.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you’re experiencing foot pain or discomfort that doesn’t improve with home care, it’s essential to consult a podiatrist at TOPS Surgical Specialty Hospital. They can diagnose the issue, recommend appropriate treatment options, and provide guidance on preventing future problems. You can visit our podiatry services page for more details. On the podiatry services page, you can learn more about different foot conditions and scroll down to find the right physician near you. Then, visit our Find a Doctor webpage to find the right physician near you. Then, simply click on their bio to visit their website to make an appointment.