Common Foot Conditions
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Common Foot Conditions
We have two foot clinics located in Thornhill and North York offering a range of services to treat whatever ails your feet. Please see all conditions below.
Achilles Tendonitis
If you are experiencing painful swelling in the back of your foot just above the heel, you may be suffering from Achilles Tendonitis. This troublesome condition affects the Achilles tendon, which is the strongest and largest tendon in the body and connects the leg to the foot as it stretches from the lower leg to the heel bone. This tendon is crucial to normal walking patterns as it allows the foot to rise up on the toes.
This condition typically develops gradually as the tendon inflammation and may include one or more of the following three stages:
- Peritenonitis: this stage is characterized by localized pain during or after activity
- Tendinosis: typically an asymptomatic stage that may result in a nodule, or know to swelling at the back of the leg
- Peritenonitis with tendinosis: this stage may lead to a rupture of the tendon and it is characterized by pain and swelling during and after activity.
As with all health conditions, Achilles tendonitis is best treated early in the development of the condition. If you are experiencing pain and/or swelling in this region, a consultation with our experienced podiatry professionals at our foot clinic in Thornhill will give you the best chance for a full recovery.
Bunions
Most often found on the inner foot near the big toe but sometimes located on the fifth toe, bunions are a painful yet common condition caused by inflammation of the bursa. Bursa resides in the connective tissues of the bodies and is essentially a small fluid filled sac. The inflammation and thickening of these sacs creates a problematic bone formation that forces the toe out of alignment and causes great discomfort.
If you are suffering from bunions, you are most likely familiar with the symptoms. Pain, redness and extreme sensitivity are to be expected as bunion growth progresses and the affected toe is pushed out of alignment. If allowed to progress, bunions can make it difficult to walk and eventually cause severe pain.
Bunions may be passed down from parents to children, which suggests that the shape and action of the foot may cause the condition. When proper alignment is not used while standing, walking and participating in athletics, the integrity of the feet may be compromised and pressure can build throughout the foot.
There are several viable treatment options available for bunions. Contact our foot clinic in Thornhill today to begin the process of freeing yourself from the pain that comes with this condition.
Flatfoot
Flatfoot is a common disorder in which the arch of one or both feet flattens. It is easily identified, as the entire sole of the affected person’s foot touches the floor when they stand. While the condition itself is typically painless, it can cause problems elsewhere in the body due to the way it alters the alignment of the leg.
It is rare to find someone who walks with both feet in perfect alignment. Often we walk on the inside or outsides of our feet, or with our toes or heels rotated inward. These typical walking patterns can cause many problems not just with the feet but also for the whole body as the alignment of the feet sets the foundation for the whole body’s alignment.
Foot Pain and Problems
Also known as fallen arches, the condition of flat feet is characterized by a lack of appropriate arch in the inner foot. It can be a genetic condition or the result of improper body mechanics. Often the whole of the foot will contact the ground. Because a healthy foot is structurally able to support the weight of the body thanks to the bone structure that comprises the arch, a flat foot often is unable to properly support this weight and will cause extreme pressure in the joints above, such as the ankles, knees and hips.
One of the most common varieties of the disorder is flexible flatfoot, which begins in childhood.The arch will appear when the child is sitting down or on tiptoe, but disappears as soon as they put full standing pressure on the foot. While many children grow out of flexible flatfoot, for some in perpetuates into adulthood. It is also possible to acquire flatfoot as an adult, either by injury or as a result of diseases such as arthritis or diabetes.
Treatment
If you have flat feet, you may also experience pain throughout the lower body and into the lower back. Orthotics can be prescribed to create a system of support for the body and surgery can also offer a more permanent solution. Contact us today to discuss which treatment option may be right for you.
If your arches have collapsed, make an appointment to see your podiatrist as soon as possible.Flatfeet may not be initially painful, but can cause serious wear and tear if left untreated.
Haglund's Deformity
Sometimes known as “pump bump” because of its prevalence among women who wear pump-style shoes, Haglund's deformity can occur in one or both of the feet. It is caused by a combination of genetic and external factors and can lead to discomfort and even pain in the back of the heel.
If you are suffering from Haglund's deformity you will most likely have noticed a bony enlargement at the back of the heel. This inflammation is caused when the soft tissue around the Achilles tendon becomes irritated. Irritation at this particular spot is often the result of pressure caused by the back of pump-style shoes. Other signs of Haglund's deformity include pain in the back of the heel, where the Achilles tendon and the heel meet, swelling in the back of the heel and redness or inflamed tissue at the site of the swelling.
Although surgery is an option, non-surgical treatment options for Haglund's Deformity are plentiful. Utilizing anti-inflammatory medication can reduce swelling and pain at the site of the problem. Ice can also be helpful in this way. Stretching, heel lifts and pads, shoe modification, physical therapy, orthotic devices and immobilization are all recommended for patients suffering from Haglund's deformity. Contact us today at our Foot Clinic in North York or Thornhill to book and appointment and our podiatrist will let you know the treatment options that will work best for your particular foot condition.
Hallux Rigidus
Hallux Rigidus is a condition that affects the joint at the base of the big toe. If you suffer from this condition, you will notice pain and stiffness in the big toe. The symptoms often worsen while walking, running or performing other exercises and when the weather is cold or damp. Additionally, individuals with this condition may notice swelling and inflammation around the joint. If the condition worsens, the big toe joint may become painful when at rest and bone spurs may develop. Often to lessen the pain, sufferers will begin to limp or otherwise alter walking mechanics, which can lead to pain in the ankles, knees, hips and lower back.
Technically a form of degenerative arthritis, Hallux Rigidus can wear out the cartilage in the joint that it affects. It can be caused by improper alignment of the feet and genetic abnormalities in the foot structure. Treatments available for this condition include shoe modification, anti-inflammatory medication, orthotics, physical therapy and surgery. As with many foot problems, learning and practicing correct alignment is often helpful. Surgery is recommended as a last resort. Contact us today to determine which treatment option might work best for you.
Hammertoes
Characterized by a bending of one or both joints of any but the big toe, hammertoe is a common podiatric issue. This condition causes difficulties wearing shoes, which often exacerbate the problem. If you suffer from hammertoes, you may notice one or more of the following symptoms:
Corns between toes or on the top, side or end of the toes. Corns are a buildup of skin caused by friction at the contact point between the toe and shoe.
Calluses on the bottom of toes or on the ball of the foot. Calluses are rough, dry patches of dead skin that has built up.
Pain or irritation when the toes come into contact with the shoe.
Hammertoes and their symptoms generally worsen over time, as the friction between the foot and footwear becomes more severe. If left untreated, they can become rigid and open sores may form. If you are suffering from this condition, it is important to seek help sooner rather than later as they will not heal without treatment of some kind. Treatment options for hammertoes include changing footwear, padding the corns and calluses that form, trimming the corns and calluses, custom orthotic footwear or devices, anti-inflammatory medications and splinting the affected toe. Surgery is recommended in some severe cases. Contact us today to discuss your hammertoe problem and we will begin finding a viable treatment option right away.
Metatarsalgia
If you are experiencing pain or inflammation in the ball of your foot, you may have metatarsalgia. This condition is especially prevalent in physically active individuals as it may be caused by repeat impact on the ball of the foot while running and jumping.
Symptoms you may experience from this condition can include:
- Sharp pain or dull ache just behind the toes on the ball of the foot.
- Pain that worsens while walking, running or jumping and improves when at rest.
- Numbness or pain in the toes.
- Pain in the feet that worsens when barefoot.
There is occasionally one singular cause for metatarsalgia, it is typically caused by several factors, including:
- Improper foot alignment
- Improper walking mechanics
- Unusual foot shape
- Hammertoe
- Intense training and activity
- Bunions
- Excess weight
- Tight shoes
- Morton’s Neuroma
- Stress fractures
Often pain in the foot can be healed with a day or two of rest, some ice and over the counter pain medication. However, if your pain is severe or ongoing, it may be time to see a foot doctor. Other treatment options include modification of footwear or insoles, use of metatarsal pads and arch supports.
Contact us today to discuss how we can alleviate your foot pain caused by metatarsalgia.
Mortons Neuroma
A neuroma is a thickening of nerve tissue that can develop in various parts of the body creating nerve damage. Morton’s neuroma is the most common neuroma in the foot. It occurs at the base of the third and fourth toes.
If you have a Morton’s neuroma, you will likely experience the following symptoms:
- Tingling
- Burning
- Numbness
- Pain
- A feeling that something is inside the ball of the foot
The symptoms begin gradually and occur only occasionally at first. This generally happens when one is wearing narrow-toed shoes or performing certain aggravating activities. The symptoms may go away temporarily by massaging the foot or by avoiding activities that brought on the pain.
However, over time, the symptoms progressively worsen and may persist for several days or weeks at a time. The symptoms become more intense as the neuroma grows in size and the nerve damage becomes more permanent.
One clearly distinctive risk factor is wearing shoes that have a tapered toe box, or high-heeled shoes that cause the toes to be forced into the toe box. People with certain foot deformities such as bunions, hammertoes or flatfeet, are also at high risk for developing a neuroma; as are those who participate in activities that require a repetitive irritation to the ball of the foot, such as running or racquet sports.
It’s best to consult your doctor in the early stages of development as early diagnosis greatly lessens the need for invasive treatments and a potential surgery.
Onychomycosis (Foot Fungus)
Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the toenails or fingernails. This ailment causes fingernails or toenails to thicken, discolor, disfigure, and split. At first glance, onychomycosis appears to be only a cosmetic concern. However, without treatment, the toenails can become abnormally thick, forcing the toe to press against the inside of the shoes, causing pressure, irritation, and pain. If the disease continues to progress without treatment, onychomycosis may interfere with standing, walking, and exercising.
Spotting Foot Fungus
Onychomycosis is easily identified by its appearance, but there are similar conditions and infections that can cause similar symptoms. Foot fungus should always be diagnosed by your podiatrist before you begin treatment.
Risk factors making one more susceptible to onychomycosis include:
- Family history
- Advancing age
- Poor health
- Trauma
- Showering in communal showers
- Wearing shoes without good airflow
Treatment
Treatments for onychomycosis vary depending on the individual and the severity of the case. Recent breakthroughs have yielded new treatments which can cut traditionally long treatment times dramatically. To learn more, schedule an appointment with your trusted podiatrist.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis - otherwise known as degenerative joint disease - is the most common type of arthritis. It most commonly occurs in the weight bearing joints of the hips, knees, and spine. However, it can also disturb the fingers, thumb, neck, and large toe.
Osteoarthritis tends to affect women more often than men. Most people that are 60 years or older have osteoarthritis to a varying degree. However, it has been diagnosed in individuals in their 20s and 30s, as well.
Symptoms often develop gradually and include:
- Joint aching and soreness.
- Pain after overuse or after long periods of inactivity.
- Bony enlargements in the middle and end joints of the fingers - which may or may not be painful.
- Joint swelling and fluid accumulation.
An individual’s chances of developing osteoarthritis are based on several factors including:
- Heredity: People born with joint abnormalities are more likely to develop osteoarthritis. Similarly, those born with an abnormality of the spine - such as scoliosis - are more likely to develop osteoarthritis, as well.
- Obesity: Obesity increases the risk for osteoarthritis of the knee and hip.
- Injury: Injuries can be linked to the development of osteoarthritis. For instance, athletes who have knee-related injuries may be at higher risk of developing osteoarthritis of the knee.
- Joint Overuse: Overuse of certain joints increases the risk of developing osteoarthritis. Such as individuals whose jobs require a repetitious bending motion are at increased risk for developing osteoarthritis of the knee.
If you’re suffering with osteoarthritis, please visit your doctor to see what treatment options are available for you.
Plantar Fasciitis
When individuals begin to experience intense pain in their heel, many know that they have acquired plantar fasciitis. This ailment occurs when the plantar fascia ligament along the bottom of the foot develops tears in the tissue. This will result in pain and inflammation of the area closest to the heel bone.
The most common symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:
- Burning
- Stabbing
- An aching pain in the heel of the foot
The fascia ligament tightens up over night and therefore causes the most pain in the morning. Pain generally decreases as the tissue warms up, but oftentimes returns after long periods of standing or weight bearing and physical activity.
One of the prevalent factors that contribute to plantar fasciitis is wearing incorrect shoes. This includes shoes that either don’t fit properly, or provide inadequate support or cushioning. Weight distribution becomes impaired while wearing shoes that are unsupportive. Therein, adding significantly stress to the plantar fascia ligament.
In most cases, treatment of plantar fasciitis doesn’t require surgery or invasive procedures to stop pain and reverse damage. Traditional treatments are usually all that is required. However, keep in mind that every person's body responds to the treatment differently and recovery times will vary.
Posterior Tibial Dysfunction
Osterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD) is the inflammation or overstretching of the posterior tibial tendon in the foot. The key function of the posterior tibial tendon is to support the arch in the foot. The tendon serves as a major supporting structure to assist the foot function while walking - however, if PTTD is present than the result is oftentimes an “adult-acquired flatfoot.”
Generally, adult-acquired flat-foot occurs only in one foot, but can be seen in both. This ailment is generally progressive, so if left untreated, the symptoms will continue to get worse. Symptoms generally occur after an activity that requires the use of the tendon such as running, walking, hiking or climbing stairs.
Symptoms of PTTD will change as the condition worsens, but initially include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Flattening of the arch
- An inward roll of the ankle
When PTTD initially develops, it begins with a pain on the inside of the foot and ankle. The area may be red, warm, and swollen, as well. As the arch begins to flatten, there may still be pain on the inside of the foot and ankle, however, the foot and toes begin to turn outward and the ankle rolls inward. As it reaches its advanced stages, the arch continues to flatten and the pain often shifts to the outside of the foot, below the ankle. This indicates that the tendon has deteriorated considerably and arthritis is likely developing in the foot.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis, otherwise known as RA, is a chronic disease. The disease causes inflammation of the lining of the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis disease can lead to long-term joint damage which in turns results in chronic pain, loss of function and disability.
RA advances through three stages:
- The first stage of RA causes swelling of the synovial lining, producing pain, a warming sensation, stiffness, redness and swelling around the joint.
- The second stage of RA causes rapid division and growth of cells which causes the synovium lining to thicken.
- In the third stage, the inflamed cells release enzymes that may digest bone and cartilage, often causing the infected joint to lose its shape and alignment. This also causes more pain and some loss of movement.
There is no cure for Rheumatoid Arthritis and frequent flares in disease activity occur spontaneously. RA can also begin to affect other organs in the body. However, studies have shown that early aggressive treatment of RA can limit joint damage, somewhat eliminating loss of movement, decreased ability to work, and potential surgery.
Currently, Rheumatoid Arthritis affects 1.3 million Americans and the cause remains unknown. However, through the use of new drugs, exercise, joint protection techniques and self-management techniques, more people are living with RA and leading happier, healthier and more fulfilling lives. Feeling any symptoms of RA? Book a consultation today!
Sesamoiditis
There are often pains in the foot that can’t initially be explained. Since they are extremely frustrating, they do need to be identified and properly treated. One such ailment is called sesamoiditis. This generally refers to an inflammation of the sesamoid bones on the ball of the foot just behind the big toe.
Generally, most bones in our body are connected to each other by joints. However, there are a few that are connected only to tendons or are embedded in muscle. These bones are called sesamoids. Because the sesamoids protrude down, underneath the “big toe,” they give these muscles extra leverage and power. This power allows the big toe to “push” us forward with extra force each time we take a step. Without the sesamoids, the big toe loses some of its power and force.
Sesamoiditis can generally be identified form other foot ailments due to its gradual onset of symptoms just beneath the big toe.
The most common symptoms include:
- The area is tender when direct pressure is applied.
- Mild pain occurs when walking barefoot or in thin soled shoes and worsens while running or jumping.
- Pain is alleviated quickly with rest.
- In later stages, constant pain is present under the sesamoids, as well as other aggravating symptoms.
Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the ailment.
Visit your foot doctor to find out the best treatment for you.
Tailor's Bunion
Tailor’s bunions, sometimes called ‘bunionettes,’ are a variation on more common bunions, which appear on the inside of the foot, under the big toe. Tailor’s bunions instead develop on the outside of the foot, under your smallest toe. Like bunions, tailor’s bunions rub against your shoes and can create redness and swelling.
Causes and Treatment of Tailor’s Bunions
Like bunions, tailor’s bunions can be caused by hereditary mechanical issues in the foot, and can be exacerbated by wearing narrow, unsupportive, and highheeled footwear.
Treatment for tailor’s bunions is also similar to treatment of more traditional bunions, though treatment varies depending on the severity of the condition and its cause (Tailor’s bunions can also be caused by bone spurs). Nonsurgical treatments are the most commonly tried first, including injections, orthotics, changing your footwear, and padding. Surgery is an option if these more conservative treatments do not help alleviate your pain.
Your podiatrist is happy to discuss available treatments with you, and a clinical diagnosis is an important first step toward pain-free feet. Contact our office for an appointment today if you believe you have developed a tailor’s bunion.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a painful foot condition in which the tibial nerve is compressed as it travels through the tarsal tunnel. This tunnel is found along the inner leg behind the medial malleolus, otherwise known as the bump on the inside of the ankle.
Symptoms of this ailment include:
- Pain and tingling in and around ankles
- Swelling of the feet
- Electric shock sensations
- Pain radiating up into the leg, and down into the arch, heel, and toes
- Hot and cold sensations in the feet
- A feeling as though the feet do not have enough padding
- Burning sensation on the bottom of foot that radiates upward
Because it’s difficult to determine the exact cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, it’s important to determine the source of the problem. Certain items that could cause compression of the nerve include benign tumors or cysts, bone spurs, inflammation of the tendon sheath, nerve ganglions, or swelling from a broken or sprained ankle. Other culprits include varicose veins, as well.
TTS tends to be more common in athletes or individuals who tend to do a lot of standing as these people commonly put an excessive amount of stress on the tarsal tunnel area.
Tendonitis
A term we often hear about, especially in circles of athletes and runners is tendonitis. Tendonitis literally means overuse and inflammation of the tendon. The tendon is the area of your body that’s connected to the muscle which causes your body to move. They come in all shapes and sizes.
Tendonitis is what happens when the tendon gets irritated from being moved outside of its regular motion. It becomes inflamed and the movement becomes painful.
There are several reasons for tendonitis:
- Overuse of the area: This is especially true for those who have recently begun an exercise routine or
- An increased in the level of exercise: The tendon is unfamiliar to the new level of exertion
- An age factor: Tendons lose their elasticity as we age and the ability to move as smoothly as we once did is lost.
- Anatomical alignment: If the tendon does not have a smooth channel to glide along, it’s more likely to become irritated and inflamed. In this case, surgery may be necessary.
In the area of the foot, the most common type of tendonitis is Achilles tendonitis. This is a condition of irritation and inflammation of the large tendon in the back of the ankle. Achilles tendonitis is a common injury that more frequently occurs in middle-age recreational athletes. The overuse causes inflammation that can lead to pain and swelling.
If you experience tendonitis, it’s important to visit your podiatrist right away to see what treatment options are available for you.
Toe Deformities
Some ailments of the feet are easily disguised and can go untreated for years. However, there are a few that need to be treated in the earliest stages to get any relief from the symptoms.
For example, fairly common diseases of the foot are known as toe deformities. These ailments are often times caused by a muscle imbalance in the foot. Toe deformities can be caused by several factors such as flatfeet, a traumatic injury, or disease of the toe joints
Because the ailment of flat feet means that the foot is longer than that of a foot with a normal arch, the flexor muscles becomes overpowering. The toes are generally not strong enough to resist this tension which results in one of two deformities:
- Claw toe happens when the middle bone is pulled downward causing the proximal and middle phalanges to buckle upward.
- Hammertoe is when the proximal phalanx causes the outer two joints of the toe to bend downward.
If left untreated, these ailments can lead to other problems such as calluses or scenarios where two bones fuse together making the only treatment a painful surgery which can require weeks of recovery.
Toe deformities are best treated in the initial stages to avoid advanced development that may not be fixed with surgery. Contact our Foot Clinic at NorthYork or Thornhill and we will begin finding a viable treatment option right away.
