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The bones in your feet are like the foundations of a building, if they are placed under too much pressure, cracks and changes may occur.

Regular visits to a podiatrist, just like regular visits to a dentist, can help prevent future degeneration of foot bones and joints to reduce injury, pain and infections.

Fracture/Stress Fracture

A fracture is a break in the bone usually caused by a traumatic event while a stress fracture is a break or bruise in the bone due to a repetitive or overuse activity.

  • Fractures typically present with severe pain, along with swelling, bruising and it may be difficult to put pressure on the foot or ankle that is broken.
  • Treatment usually involves immobilising the foot with a cast or CAM Walker. This treatment helps the bones to heal with the best possible alignment. It also helps you to maintain strength and functionality and reduce the chances of arthritis.

In some cases, surgery may be required to achieve an ideal anatomical alignment. We’ll always discuss the best options for treatment with you.

Bunion

A bunion is a bony deformity that involves the big toe joint. They generally occur more in women, and are often due to genetics and poor footwear choices.

  • Usually presents as a lump at the inside of the big toe joint which is partly due to a fluid protecting the joint and bony changes within the joint itself.
  • There is the tendency for this condition to progress, causing the big toe to move towards the lesser toes. This results in toes “clawing” or in some cases “overlapping” causing ongoing pain and discomfort.
  • If identified early, conservative treatment is usually suitable. This can reduce the progression rate of the condition.
  • If bunions are left for too long, surgical correction treatments for bunions may be required.

Our advice: if you are unsure, have your feet checked today

Arthritis

Arthritis is inflammation within joints and may cause redness, swelling, warmth and pain.

There are many types of Arthritis but the most common forms that affect the feet are:

  • Osteoarthritis – long term wear and tear from repetitive stress where joints become painful and stiff.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis – results in joint destruction and severe deformities of the feet, particularly lesser toes.
  • Gout – excessive uric acid crystals form in the joints resulting in severe pain. (most commonly occurs in the big toe joint and in men).
  • Treatment primarily involves wearing the right footwear to help cushion the feet and reduce shock and impact on the joints.
  • Orthotics can also assist in supporting the feet and maintaining appropriate alignment.
  • Foot strengthening, mobilisation, manipulation treatments and light exercises can also benefit in reducing pain associated with this condition.

We can show you how to achieve correct foot function and movement to reduce the effects of arthritis on your feet.

Lesser Toe Deformities

Changes to the lesser toes is usually a result of a muscle imbalance and arthritis

  • Tendons and ligaments in the toes can become tight, pulling the toe joints into unnatural positions.
  • Problems with these toes generally arise when shoes rub on the deformed toes, causing pressure and possibly callous, corns or even ulceration.
  • Orthotics and other medical devices we use may help address some of the causative factors.

To prevent or reduce the progress of toe deformities, proper fitting footwear is the best prevention. How do you know if your footwear is properly fitted for you? Bring them in and review them with us.