A bunion, medically termed hallux valgus, is a bony protrusion on the inner side of the foot, precisely at the base of the big toe. This condition arises from the misalignment of the bones in the forefoot, compelling the big toe to angle towards the lesser toes, consequently protruding the joint at its base. Bunions can cause significant discomfort and interfere with your daily activities. If you have exhausted nonsurgical options like padding or orthotic shoes, bunion surgery may be the next step to relieve your pain and improve mobility. During the procedure, a podiatrist may remove the bunion, realign bones, or release tight ligaments to straighten your big toe. Risks of bunion surgery include nerve damage, bone healing issues, or overcorrection. The recovery process often takes up to six months. Initially, you may need to keep your leg elevated to reduce swelling, and it can take weeks before you can comfortably wear regular shoes again. Among the long-term benefits of bunion surgery are improved comfort and mobility. If you are struggling with bunion pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to discuss whether surgery is right for you. 

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Michele Kraft, DPM of Toes on the Go. Our doctor 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 Carmel, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fibromas are benign growths that develop in the arch of the foot, often causing discomfort and difficulty with walking. When conservative treatments fail to provide relief, foot surgery may be necessary to alleviate symptoms and restore mobility. During the procedure, the patient is typically placed under local anesthesia, numbing the foot to minimize pain. The surgeon then makes an incision in the skin, carefully dissecting the fibroma from surrounding tissues and nerves. Once the fibroma is removed, the incision is closed with sutures, and a dressing is applied to promote healing. Recovery time varies, depending on the size of the fibroma and the individual's ability to heal, but most patients can expect to resume normal activities within a few weeks. While surgical plantar fibroma excision offers a permanent solution, it is essential to discuss the risks and benefits with a podiatrist. If you have a plantar fibroma that is causing you pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine if this surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Michele Kraft, DPM of Toes on the Go. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Flip-flops are loved for their convenience and casual style, and may seem like the perfect footwear choice for warm weather. However, wearing flip-flops regularly can pose significant risks to your foot health. One major issue is the lack of support they provide, leading to improper weight distribution and strain on the arches and heels of your feet. This lack of support can contribute to conditions like plantar fasciitis and arch pain. Additionally, the thin sole and minimal straps offer little protection against sharp objects or uneven surfaces, increasing the risk of injuries like cuts, bruises, and sprains. Constantly gripping the toes to keep flip-flops in place can also lead to muscle fatigue and toe deformities over time. Furthermore, flip-flops offer little or no shock absorption, which can lead to impact-related injuries like stress fractures. While they may be tempting for casual outings, it is important to prioritize footwear that offers proper support. If you have developed one of several foot conditions from wearing flip-flops, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who offer effectively treatment options.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Michele Kraft, DPM from Toes on the Go. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

• Ankle problems
• Hip problems
• Lower back problems
• Pain in the balls of the feet
• Problems with foot arches
• Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

• Sprained ankles
• Blisters
• Infections
• Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

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

Morton's neuroma, a painful foot condition, stems from the compression of the plantar digital nerve, typically between the third and fourth toes. This nerve compression leads to the thickening of the nerve tissue, resulting in sharp, burning pain, tingling sensations, and numbness in the affected toes. Despite its name, Morton's neuroma is not a true neuroma, or tumor, but rather a nerve entrapment or irritation. The precise cause of Morton's neuroma remains unclear, though factors such as repetitive stress, wearing tight or high-heeled shoes, foot deformities, and certain activities that involve pressure on the forefoot are thought to contribute to its development. Diagnosis often involves a thorough examination by a podiatrist, including a physical assessment of the foot. This may include imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans to confirm the condition. If you are experiencing pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Michele Kraft, DPM of Toes on the Go. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

If you have ever experienced the sharp, stabbing pain of plantar fasciitis, you know how debilitating it can be. Plantar fasciitis, caused by inflammation of the ligament running from the toes to the heel, often results from overuse. However, relief may be closer than you think and involves simple exercises. Begin by sitting with feet flat on the floor, lifting the leg with the sore foot, and placing that ankle on the opposite leg. Flex your toes toward your shin, feeling the stretch under your foot for five seconds, and repeat 10 times. Then, sit with your feet flat and place a frozen water bottle on the floor, rolling it under your foot for one to two minutes, focusing on painful areas. Similarly, use a golf or tennis ball to massage the sole of your foot, targeting painful areas. These simple stretches can provide immense relief, but for a more comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your specific needs, a podiatrist can help. This foot and ankle specialist can offer personalized advice and other methods to address plantar fasciitis effectively. For relief from plantar fasciitis pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist today.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Michele Kraft, DPM  from Toes on the Go. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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