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Complications of Bunions
Bunions are bony protrusions that form at the base of the big toe, causing it to lean inward toward the other toes. Bunions often result from a combination of genetic factors, wearing improper footwear, and structural issues in the foot. As the bunion develops, it can lead to pain, inflammation, and difficulty with shoe wear. In severe cases, complications such as bursitis, hammertoes, or even arthritis may arise due to the altered foot mechanics. If you have a bunion that is causing significant discomfort and interfering with your daily activities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer you various treatment options.
If you are suffering from bunions, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM of Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors 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?
Doctors 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 doctor.
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 office located in Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Complete Foot Care
Maintaining healthy feet is essential for overall well-being. An easy foot care routine combines at-home care with professional guidance from a podiatrist. Start with regular at-home pedicures, soaking feet in warm water with Epsom salts to soften skin, followed by gentle exfoliation and moisturizing to prevent dryness and cracking. Trim toenails straight across to avoid ingrown nails and file them smooth. Seeing a podiatrist is equally important for comprehensive foot health. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist can detect early signs of issues like bunions, corns, or fungal infections. A podiatrist can also provide personalized advice on proper footwear, foot exercises, and preventive measures. If you want to invest time into taking proper care of your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for thorough foot maintenance and early intervention for any underlying conditions.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. 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 Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?
Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
How Foot Stretching Can Help With Foot and Ankle Health
Stretching the feet regularly can play a significant role in preventing foot and ankle problems and maintaining overall foot health. Targeted stretches such as toe splays, Achilles stretches, and big toe stretches help improve flexibility, strengthen muscles, and reduce tension in the feet and ankles. Toe splays involve spreading the toes apart to alleviate tightness and improve mobility. Achilles stretches target the calf muscles and Achilles tendon, enhancing the range of motion and reducing strain on the heel. Big toe stretches help maintain flexibility in the joint, promoting proper gait mechanics and preventing conditions like bunions and plantar fasciitis. A podiatrist can offer valuable guidance on appropriate stretching techniques and recommend a personalized stretching routine based on individual needs and existing foot issues. Additionally, podiatrists can assess biomechanical imbalances and provide custom orthotics or other interventions to complement stretching exercises and optimize foot health. If you would like to learn more about maintaining good foot and ankle health, including stretching, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss this further.
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Stretching the Feet
Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.
Great ways to stretch your feet:
- Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
- Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
- Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle
Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?
Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.
Foot Strengthening Exercises for Runners
In the world of running, the strength and flexibility of the feet often go unnoticed. From simple toe squish and toe splay exercises to deep squats and hip mobilization techniques, maintaining optimal foot function is essential for improving performance and avoiding injuries. These foot exercises not only strengthen the muscles and ligaments that support the arches, they also encourage proper alignment and biomechanics. Additionally, incorporating jumping exercises can enhance foot elasticity and running efficiency. Whether it's fine-tuning foot mechanics or overcoming injuries, a podiatrist's expertise can be indispensable for runners striving for peak performance and long-term foot health. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose any foot problems and offer treatment options to keep you running on the right path.
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 Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. 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 office located in Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Pain in Different Parts of the Foot
Various causes can lead to foot pain, requiring different treatments depending on the affected area. Toe pain, including big toe pain, may result from conditions like ingrown toenails or arthritis. Foot and ankle joint pain may stem from arthritis or injuries. Pain in the ball of the foot may arise from conditions like metatarsalgia. Morton's neuroma is characterized by pain in the ball of the foot. Arch pain may indicate conditions like plantar fasciitis. Heel pain is commonly caused by plantar fasciitis or heel spurs. Depending on the location of foot pain and its cause, treatment can include custom-made orthotics, injections, nail care, and in severe cases, surgery. If you are suffering from foot pain in any part of your foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment that will bring you relief.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. 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 office located in Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
Essential Stretches for Runners to Prevent Injuries
In the pursuit of their passion, runners understand the importance of injury prevention through targeted stretching routines. Among the essential stretches for runners are calf stretches, which involve gently leaning forward against a wall to elongate the calf muscles and Achilles tendon. Another effective stretch is the quadriceps stretch, achieved by standing on one leg and pulling the opposite foot toward the glutes, helping to alleviate tension in the front thigh muscles. Hamstring stretches, performed while sitting or standing, aid in maintaining flexibility and reducing strain on the back of the thighs. Runners also benefit from incorporating dynamic stretches into their warm-up routines, such as leg swings and high knees, to increase blood flow and prepare the muscles for activity. By incorporating these stretches into their regimen, runners can help prevent injuries that may affect their feet. If you are interested in learning about additional stretches that can help prevent injuries, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM of Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.
What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.
Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Preventing Blisters on the Feet
It is frustrating to experience foot blisters that keep coming back. Wearing well-fitted shoes and keeping the feet dry are two key prevention techniques for foot blisters. Choose breathable footwear to reduce friction and moisture, common culprits in blister formation. If you have a new pair of shoes, gradually break them in to help your feet adjust and minimize the risk of friction-related blisters. Moisture-wicking socks also help keep the feet dry, further reducing the likelihood of blister formation. Additionally, blister pads and petroleum jelly are friction-reducing products that can offer an added layer of protection from rubbing. Podiatrists, or foot doctors, can inspect your feet for any signs of irritation and address blister-related pain quickly. If you are experiencing foot blisters, it is suggested you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer further prevention tips.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM of Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.
What Are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
How Do Blisters Form?
Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.
Prevention & Treatment
It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
More...
Arthritis Can Cause Pain in the Feet and Ankles
If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
Diabetes-Related Foot Problems
Foot problems are a common complication of diabetes, primarily stemming from a loss of protective sensation, or LOPS, and peripheral artery disease, or PAD. The loss of feeling in the feet results from nerve damage, which can make a patient unaware of injuries. Undetected blisters or sores increase the risk of infections and complications, and may lead to ulcers. Regular foot examinations by a podiatrist are essential for a diabetic experiencing either LOPS or PAD. Prevention strategies include wearing well-fitting shoes, checking for foreign objects in shoes, and being cautious of extreme temperatures. It is important to note that peripheral artery disease decreases blood flow to the feet, which results in pain, slow wound healing, and an elevated risk of foot ulcers and amputation. A podiatrist can assess blood flow to the feet to detect PAD early, which allows for prompt management. If you are diabetic and experience numbness and slow-healing wounds, it is suggested that you make regular visits to a podiatrist.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
- Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
- Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
- Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Methods That May Prevent Diabetic Limb Loss
One of the most concerning complications of diabetes is the risk of foot amputation. However, with proper management and proactive measures, many cases of foot amputation can be prevented entirely. A few significant ways to prevent amputation are effectively managing blood sugar levels, diligent foot care, and exercise. Adopting a healthy diet, performing daily foot inspections, and including regular exercise in your daily routine is essential for diabetic patients. Daily foot inspections can identify any abnormalities such as redness, wounds, bruising, blisters, or discoloration before they escalate into ulcers. For those with limited mobility or visibility, using a magnifying mirror or enlisting the help of a caregiver for foot checks is imperative. Regularly assessing foot sensation and temperature sensitivity is also vital in detecting neuropathy, a common complication of diabetes. Other simple measures such as wearing clean, dry socks without elastic bands, wiggling toes, and moving ankles frequently can improve blood circulation in the feet. Any signs of foot problems or neuropathy symptoms, such as numbness, burning, or tingling should be promptly reported to your podiatrist. It is suggested that diabetic individuals schedule regular visits with type of doctor for help in preventing the loss of a limb.
Diabetic Limb Salvage
Diabetic limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have a foot ulcer and diabetes, consult with Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Diabetic Limb Salvage?
Diabetic limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot, that has an infected ulcer, from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.
Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Amputation has been found to lead to higher mortality rates. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Gout Pain Can Be Managed
Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
