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FAQ - Ask the Foot Doctor

Q: Doctor, oftentimes when I wake up in the morning and get out of bed, I have difficulties walking across the room because the pain in my feet is so bad. What causes this and how can it be treated?

A: You have what is called “Heel Pain or Plantar Fasciitis:” A condition that is frequently called the bone spur, heel spur or a “stone bruise.” In order to relieve these symptoms, it is necessary to be evaluated by your podiatrist to diagnose what exactly is causing the pain (i.e. that is not a fracture). Upon evaluation, heel pain can be treated by icing, stretching and injections. Another effective treatment for heel pain is custom made orthotics (shoe inserts), which are made to specifically address your personal discomfort or pain.

Q: My toe nail is red and puffy. There is a constant nagging pain near the edge of may nail. What is causing this and what type of treatment may I expect.

A: You have a common aliment known as an “Ingrown Nail or Paronychia:” A simple permanent procedure can be performed to prevent nail regrowth or continued infections.

Q: Near my big toe and on the side of my foot, I have an unattractive bump. What can I do?

A: You have what is called a Bunion or Hallux Abducto Valgus. It is typically a hereditary condition that is not caused by shoes. Cosmetic concerns are not the reason to have a bunion removed; however, if the condition causes interference and pain during your daily activities, a surgical correction may be something beneficial.

Q: My foot is swollen and bruised with limited mobility. Do you know what could be causing these symptoms?

A: It sounds as if you may have a fracture or perhaps even a broken bone. We would need to do an X-Ray to determine the problem accurately. If in fact the X-Ray shows a fracture or break, treatments range from a rigid walking shoe to a removable boot or even a hard cast with crutches. In extreme cases, a surgical repair may be necessary.

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