Bunions are bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of the big toe, often causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. While bunions are primarily structural issues, targeted exercises can help manage discomfort, improve flexibility, and slow progression. Toe stretches, big-toe circles, and towel scrunches are effective for maintaining joint mobility. Resistance exercises with a band around the big toe can also strengthen the surrounding muscles, helping stabilize the foot. However, if pain from a bunion persists or limits your daily activities, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a comprehensive treatment plan, which may include custom orthotics, footwear advice, and in severe cases, surgical options.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, 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?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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.

Minimally invasive surgical techniques have become valuable in podiatric surgery, offering effective solutions for common foot and ankle conditions with less trauma than traditional methods. These procedures involve small incisions, often under five millimeters, and specialized instruments to address issues like bunions, hammertoes, and bone spurs. By minimizing soft tissue disruption, minimally invasive surgery reduces postoperative pain, swelling, and the need for extensive recovery time, allowing patients to return to daily activities sooner. These techniques are particularly beneficial for patients with underlying health conditions who may not be ideal candidates for open surgery. Using real-time imaging, podiatrists can accurately correct deformities and other structural issues with high precision. Additionally, the reduced risk of infection and scarring makes these procedures attractive for both patients and practitioners. If you are facing the possibility of foot surgery, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to see if you are a candidate for this type of surgery.

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.

Achilles tendon injuries in children often result from overuse or sudden increases in physical activity, particularly in sports that involve running and jumping. The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, and repetitive strain can lead to inflammation, tendonitis, or even partial tears. Common symptoms include pain and stiffness at the back of the ankle, especially in the morning or after periods of rest, as well as difficulty while walking or running. Growth spurts in children can make them more vulnerable to these injuries as muscles and tendons tighten during rapid growth. If your child experiences persistent Achilles pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who will evaluate the injury, recommend treatments such as rest and specific stretches, in addition to providing guidance on how to safely return to physical activity without risking further damage.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, 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 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 Carmel, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.