A bunion is a bony bump that develops at the base of the big toe when the joint shifts out of alignment. Symptoms may include swelling, redness, pain, and difficulty finding comfortable shoes. Risk factors include genetics, flat feet, and wearing narrow or high heeled shoes that put excessive pressure on the toes. Additionally, causes often involve a combination of inherited foot structure and repetitive stress on the joint. A podiatrist can provide solutions including custom orthotics, footwear guidance, and in some cases, surgery to relieve pain and restore function. If you are experiencing discomfort from a bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment solutions for this condition.

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.

Strong, flexible feet are essential for balance and overall mobility. The alphabet exercise involves sitting and tracing the alphabet in the air with your toes to improve ankle flexibility. The towel scrunch is done by placing a towel on the floor and using your toes to pull it toward you to strengthen foot muscles. The toe point involves pointing your toes forward while seated, holding briefly, and relaxing to enhance control. Additionally, the toe stretch is done by gently pulling back on your toes to stretch the arch. A podiatrist can assess foot strength, recommend exercises, and prescribe custom orthotics, if needed. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and recommend additional foot strengthening exercises.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, 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.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctors to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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.

Improving toe point is essential for dancers seeking strength, flexibility, and graceful lines. Effective toe stretches help enhance performance and reduce injury risk. The piano toe stretch involves sitting and gently lifting and lowering each toe like playing piano keys to improve control. A resistance stretch with a hair elastic builds strength by looping it around the toes and pressing outward. Additionally, the standing toe press strengthens arches by rising onto the toes and holding the position. Practicing these toe stretches regularly enhances stability and flexibility. A podiatrist can assess foot health, address injuries, and recommend personalized exercises. If you have toe pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and guide you on additional ways to stretch your toes.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists  from Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

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

The skin on the bottom of the feet can be sensitive, despite it being able to support the weight of the body. The foot condition that is known as cracked heels can be uncomfortable, and it can happen for a variety of reasons. These can include wearing shoes that have an open back and standing on hard or uneven surfaces for most of the day. Additionally, it can occur from not drinking adequate amounts of water, or from a lack of moisturizing the feet. Some patients notice they have cracked heels from taking extremely hot baths or showers, or from using harsh soaps on their feet. Severely cracked heels may lead to developing fissures, which can bleed and become infected. It is beneficial for people who are diabetic to pay extra attention to their feet, and this may help to avoid complicated foot conditions from developing. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you treatment solutions, in addition to learning about effective prevention techniques.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, 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.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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.

Midfoot arthritis happens when the joints in the middle of the foot lose their protective cartilage, which normally cushions and allows smooth movement. Without this cushion, the bones begin to rub together, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. Since the midfoot plays a key role in supporting body weight and helping with walking, even simple activities like standing on uneven ground or climbing stairs can become difficult when arthritis develops. Many people also notice discomfort when wearing shoes lacking adequate support. Treatment for midfoot arthritis often begins with supportive footwear or custom orthotics that can help by redistributing pressure across the foot. Medications or corticosteroid injections may reduce inflammation and pain. Targeted exercises  can improve strength and mobility surrounding the affected joints. If these measures are not enough, surgery such as joint fusion may be considered to stabilize the foot and relieve symptoms. If you have midfoot pain that persists, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for proper evaluation and appropriate treatment.

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 term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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.

Ingrown toenails are uncomfortable and often avoidable with the right habits. One of the most important steps is wearing shoes that give your toes enough room. Tight or narrow footwear squeezes the toes together, putting pressure on the nails and encouraging them to grow into the surrounding skin. How nails are trimmed also makes a difference. Cutting them straight across, rather than rounding the edges, helps the nail grow outward instead of curving into the skin. It is also best to avoid having the nails cut too short, which can increase the chance of the edge digging in as the nail grows. Another common mistake is picking or tearing at toenails. This leaves uneven edges that can easily become embedded in the skin. If you have an ingrown toenail that has become painful, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist as quickly as possible for the right care.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, 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.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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.

Foot pain can occur in the heel, arch, toes, or ball of the foot and often results from strain, injury, or underlying conditions. Among the most common causes of foot pain are gout in the big toe joint, bunions at the base of the big toe, or hammer toes, where the toes bend into a claw-like position. Having flat feet may place added stress on ligaments in the arch, while plantar fasciitis and heel spurs often create persistent heel pain. Sports injuries, sprains, tendon or ligament tears, and stress fractures can also lead to discomfort and limit mobility. Nerve-related issues, such as Morton’s neuroma or nerve damage linked to diabetes, may cause tingling, burning, or numbness in the feet. A podiatrist can assess the cause of your foot pain and provide appropriate treatment, which may include orthotics, medication, or surgery. If you are experiencing foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists  from Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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 age, changes in the blood vessels can limit circulation to the feet. This reduced blood flow means less oxygen and fewer nutrients reach the tissues, slowing the body’s ability to heal from cuts, sores, or infections. Skin on the feet may become thinner, drier, and more prone to injury. Seniors with poor circulation often feel persistent coldness or numbness, which can mask developing problems. Muscles in the lower legs and feet may weaken over time, affecting balance and stability. In severe cases, prolonged lack of blood supply can lead to tissue damage that requires urgent medical attention. Because the signs may be subtle at first, regular evaluation is important to detect issues early. If you are an older adult experiencing ongoing coldness, color changes, or delayed healing in the feet, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for assessment and management.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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.

Sharp pain in the big toe can interfere with daily movement and may signal underlying conditions. Gout causes sudden, intense pain due to uric acid buildup in the joint. Sesamoiditis results from inflammation of the small bones under the toe. Turf toe is a sprain from forceful bending, often seen in athletes. Additionally, lumps such as cysts or bone growths can also cause discomfort and pressure. A podiatrist can perform a detailed evaluation, provide imaging if needed, and offer targeted treatments to reduce pain and restore function. If you are suffering from big toe pain, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist to identify the cause and begin the path to healing and relief.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, 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 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 contact our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.