One of the most important components of your foot is the big toe joint, scientifically known as the first metatarsophalangeal joint, or first MPJ. When issues arise within this joint, they can significantly impact your daily life, ranging from walking to overall body posture. Hallux limitus is a condition that pertains to the limited range of motion in the big toe joint. One of the main causes of this condition is inflammatory arthritis. Your big toe joint plays a critical role in walking and maintaining proper balance. When this joint loses its range of motion it can lead to significant difficulties in walking and cause pain during each step. This can alter the gait and in turn affect the knee, hip, and back. If arthritis is a contributing factor, disease specific medications can be prescribed. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be needed. Procedures can range from cleaning out the joint to more advanced surgeries, such as joint fusion or joint replacement. For an accurate appraisal of the problems involving your big toe pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Daniel Bell, DPM of Florida. Our doctor 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 Pembroke Pines and Plantation, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Idiopathic congenital clubfoot, often referred to simply as clubfoot, is the most common congenital deformity. This condition can affect one or both of an infant’s feet and is noticeable as the feet are turned inward and downward. The sole of the foot can also face in, and the foot may appear shorter due to an increased arch. The word idiopathic signifies the exact cause of the condition is unknown. This differentiates it from cases that are linked to specific underlying conditions or syndromes. The Ponseti method is often used by podiatrists to treat clubfoot. This method involves manipulation and casting, which allows most children with the condition to achieve a functional and aesthetically pleasing result with their feet. If your child is born with clubfoot, it is suggested that you make an appointment as quickly as possible with a podiatrist, as effective treatment generally begins within the first few weeks of birth.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Daniel Bell, DPM of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Pembroke Pines and Plantation, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a skin infection caused by dermatophytes, a type of mold-like fungi. These fungi naturally reside in the skin folds of the foot and generally remain in check if the foot is kept clean and dry. However, conditions like wearing tight, closed shoes or plastic footwear can create a warm, moist environment that promotes fungal growth. The two main fungi responsible for athlete's foot are trichophyton rubrum, which causes moccasin-like lesions and tends to be chronic, and trichophyton mentagrophytes, causing sudden, severe blister-like lesions between the toes. Both conditions are contagious and can be spread through direct skin-to-skin contact or indirectly via contaminated objects like towels, shoes, or wet floors. The risk of contracting athlete's foot increases with age and is higher among those with weakened immune systems. If you have athlete’s foot, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Daniel Bell, DPM from Florida.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

A foot stress fracture can be a painful setback, but with the right approach to recovery, you can ensure a swift and safe return to your active lifestyle. The first step is rest. Allowing your foot to heal is of utmost importance, and this may mean using crutches or a brace to minimize weight-bearing. Getting adequate nutrition, rich in calcium and vitamin D, aids in bone healing. Gentle exercises like swimming or stationary cycling can help maintain cardiovascular fitness without adding stress to your healing foot. Gradually, as pain subsides, introduce weight-bearing activities and strength exercises. Wearing footwear with proper arch support and cushioning is suggested to help reduce pressure at the fracture site. A gradual return to regular activity and sport is vital to prevent re-injury. If you have suffered a foot stress fracture, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can provide the correct treatment options.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Daniel Bell, DPM from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

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

Achilles tendinopathy, or inflammation of the Achilles tendon, can hinder daily activities and mobility. The primary cause of Achilles tendinopathy is overuse, often prevalent among runners and others engaged in sports that involve repetitive stress on the Achilles tendon. This can lead to small tears and degeneration of the tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel. Those individuals with flat feet or over-pronated feet are at a higher risk. This can be a result of the flattened arches placing constant strain on the tendon, resulting in inflammation, pain, and swelling. Footwear choices, such as flip flops, sandals or high heels, can make the condition worse. Further, being overweight places extra stress on various body parts, including the Achilles tendon. A common symptom of Achilles tendinopathy is pain and tenderness in the back of the heel or ankle, which often gets worse with physical activity. Other symptoms can include stiffness in the ankle, reduced range of motion, and tendon swelling and thickening. Additionally, patents may experience a noticeable cracking or creaking sensation during movement. If you suspect you have Achilles tendinopathy or are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan. 

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Daniel Bell, DPM of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Pembroke Pines and Plantation, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.