Items filtered by date: November 2024

Sesamoiditis is an inflammation of the sesamoid bones under the big toe, causing pain in the ball of the foot. Common among dancers, runners, and those who place repeated pressure on their forefoot, it is assessed through patient history, including activity level and recent foot strain. A podiatrist may recreate symptoms by pressing on the sesamoid area to pinpoint pain, and they will look for biomechanical factors like high arches or gait issues that can contribute. Imaging may help rule out fractures or other causes of pain. Treatment focuses on relieving pressure and inflammation through rest and cushioned pads or orthotics to offload the area. If you have persistent pain under your big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment, which may include steroid injections or surgery.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact one of our podiatrists of New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Our doctors 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 office located in Wesley Chapel, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A fibular fracture involves a break in the fibula, the thinner of the two bones in the lower leg, located parallel to the tibia, or shinbone. This injury often results from trauma, such as a fall, twisting motion, or direct impact during sports. It is common among athletes, particularly those in high-impact sports like soccer, skiing, or running. Fibular fractures can vary from minor stress fractures to complete breaks, often affecting stability in the ankle due to the fibula’s role in supporting this joint. What makes fibular fractures unique is that, unlike the tibia, the fibula bears less weight, so patients can sometimes still walk, although with difficulty. Treatment depends on fracture severity and can include immobilization with a cast, splinting, or, in complex cases, surgery to realign the bone. If you have sustained an injury to your ankle or lower leg, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

Wearing orthotics offers numerous benefits for people seeking relief from foot pain and discomfort. One primary reason to use orthotics is to provide essential support for the arches, which can alleviate conditions like plantar fasciitis and flat feet. Orthotics help distribute body weight more evenly, reduce pressure on specific areas, and enhance overall comfort during activities. Custom orthotics are tailored to your specific foot shape and needs. For instance, rigid orthotics provide stability, making them ideal for people with significant structural issues. Soft orthotics offer cushioning and flexibility for those experiencing mild discomfort. If you have foot pain and are considering wearing orthotics, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the correct type.

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

What Are Custom Orthotics?

Custom 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. 

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Shoe inserts come in a wide variety and 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, custom 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're experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibility of using custom orthotics or shoe inserts. A podiatrist can determine which type of custom orthotic or shoe insert is right for you and help you take the first steps toward being pain-free.

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

Turf toe, also known as a hyperextension injury of the big toe, occurs when the toe is forcibly bent upward, straining or tearing the ligaments around the joint. This injury is common in athletes, particularly those playing on artificial turf, where shoes can grip too firmly, restricting toe flexibility. Football players, dancers, and gymnasts are especially at risk due to frequent, intense foot movements. Turf toe causes pain, swelling, and bruising at the base of the big toe. Patients often feel a sudden pain when the injury occurs, which worsens with movement, especially when pushing off the toe while walking or running. Treatment includes rest and elevation. Severe cases may require immobilization or even surgery. With proper care, most individuals recover fully, but untreated injuries can lead to long-term stiffness, joint instability, and chronic pain. If you have injured your toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of New Tampa Foot & 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 Wesley Chapel, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Hammertoe is a deformity where one or more toes become bent at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. This condition often develops due to muscle imbalances, which cause the tendons and ligaments to tighten and pull the toe into an abnormal position. Common causes include wearing ill-fitting shoes, particularly high heels or shoes that crowd the toes, as well as trauma or conditions like arthritis. Symptoms consist of pain, difficulty moving the affected toe, and the development of corns or calluses where the toe rubs against footwear. Over time, the deformity may become rigid, making it harder to correct. Relief for hammertoe may include wearing properly fitted shoes with a roomy toe box and using orthotic devices. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to realign the toe. If you have a hammertoe, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist to prevent worsening of the affliction and provide effective treatment options.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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