TOE & FOOT CONDITIONS
Toe & Foot
Conditions like hammertoes, ingrown toenails, and bunions can cause pain and limit mobility. Skin issues such as corns, calluses, and plantar warts often result from friction, while toenail fungus leads to discoloration and infection. Injuries like claw toe, broken toes, and neuromas can cause sharp pain and discomfort. Early treatment with proper footwear, orthotics, and minor procedures can help manage symptoms and improve function.
Hammertoes
Hammertoes
Hammertoe is a foot condition where one or more of the joints in the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes become abnormally bent, causing the toe to resemble a hammer. This deformity can cause discomfort, particularly when wearing shoes, as the bent toe may rub against the shoe, leading to pain and irritation.
Hammertoes often begin as mild and flexible deformities but may become more rigid and harder to treat over time. Early intervention is essential to prevent the condition from worsening. If left untreated, hammertoes can lead to additional complications, making treatment more difficult.
What Causes Hammertoe?
The most common cause of hammertoe is an imbalance between the muscles and tendons that control toe movement. This imbalance can result from structural or neurological changes in the foot over time. Tight or poorly fitting shoes are often a contributing factor, as they force the toes into cramped positions. Trauma to the toe or a hereditary predisposition can also play a role in the development of hammertoes.
Symptoms of Hammertoes
The primary symptoms of hammertoes include:
Pain or Irritation: Discomfort, especially when wearing tight or narrow shoes.
Corns and Calluses: Thickened skin on the toe or between toes, caused by friction from shoes. Corns may be either soft or hard, depending on their location.
Inflammation and Redness: Swelling or a burning sensation in the affected toe.
Contracture: The affected toe may appear permanently bent.
Treatment for Hammertoes
In the early stages, hammertoes can often be managed with non-surgical treatments:
Proper Footwear: Wearing shoes with a wide toe box that don’t put pressure on the affected toe.
Orthotic Devices: Custom insoles or pads to help correct toe positioning and reduce pressure.
Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Exercises targeting the muscles and tendons in the foot to improve flexibility and alleviate symptoms.
Padding: Using toe pads or cushions to reduce friction and prevent corns and calluses from forming.
If the hammertoe becomes rigid and doesn’t respond to conservative treatments, surgical intervention may be necessary to straighten the toe and relieve pain.
When to See a Doctor
If you notice any of the symptoms of hammertoes, early intervention is key. Scheduling an evaluation with your podiatrist can help prevent the condition from progressing and improve your treatment options.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown Toenail
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, typically on the sides of the nail. This can cause irritation, redness, swelling, and warmth around the affected toe. If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can break the skin, allowing bacteria to enter and potentially cause an infection. This may result in drainage and an unpleasant odor. Even if the toe isn’t visibly swollen or painful, the condition can still progress to an infection over time.
What Causes Ingrown Toenails?
Several factors can contribute to the development of ingrown toenails:
Heredity: Some individuals inherit a tendency for toenails to grow inwards.
Trauma: Stubbing your toe, dropping something heavy on it, or repetitive pressure from activities like running or kicking can cause the nail to become ingrown.
Improper Nail Trimming: Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges can encourage the skin to fold over the nail, leading to irritation.
Tight or Ill-Fitting Footwear: Shoes or socks that are too tight or too short can put pressure on the toes, increasing the likelihood of an ingrown toenail.
Nail Conditions: Fungal infections or past trauma to the nail can also contribute to the development of ingrown toenails.
How to Treat Ingrown Toenails
If you’re dealing with an ingrown toenail, there are steps you can take to manage it. However, it’s essential to know when to seek professional care.
Home Care (If No Infection Is Present)
If there are no signs of infection and you don’t have underlying medical conditions like diabetes, you can try the following:
Soak your foot: Soaking in warm water (room temperature) can help reduce inflammation. You can add Epsom salt as recommended by your doctor.
Massage gently: Lightly massaging the sides of the nail can help reduce inflammation.
Important: Avoid attempting to treat the ingrown toenail on your own by cutting or digging at the nail, as this can make the condition worse. If your symptoms don’t improve or worsen, consult with a professional.
Physician Care
If the ingrown toenail doesn’t improve with home care or shows signs of infection (redness, increased pain, drainage), it’s essential to seek professional treatment.
At Peoria Foot and Ankle, we offer the following treatments:
Antibiotics: If an infection is present, oral antibiotics may be prescribed.
Minor Surgical Procedure: In some cases, we may perform an in-office procedure using a local anesthetic to remove the part of the nail causing the issue. For recurrent ingrown toenails, we may also remove the nail root to prevent future problems.
Most patients experience minimal discomfort after the procedure and can return to their regular activities the next day.
Preventing Ingrown Toenails
While ingrown toenails can be painful, there are several steps you can take to help prevent them:
Proper Nail Trimming: Cut toenails straight across and avoid cutting them too short. Ensure the nail doesn’t extend into the skin at the sides.
Choose Well-Fitting Shoes: Always wear shoes that fit properly, with enough room in the toe box. Tight or narrow shoes can put unnecessary pressure on your toes, increasing the risk of ingrown toenails.
At Peoria Foot and Ankle, we’re here to help manage and treat ingrown toenails. Early care is key to preventing complications, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re experiencing discomfort or noticing signs of an ingrown toenail.
Skin Conditions
Skin Conditions & Treatments at Peoria Foot and Ankle
Your feet work hard every day, and at Peoria Foot and Ankle, we’re here to ensure they stay healthy and comfortable. Skin conditions on the feet aren’t just an inconvenience—they can impact your mobility and quality of life if left untreated. Our expert team is dedicated to diagnosing and treating these issues with personalized care, advanced treatments, and a focus on prevention.
Common Skin Conditions We Treat
Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis)
What It Is: A persistent fungal infection causing itching, redness, peeling, and discomfort.
How We Help: We offer targeted antifungal therapies and provide guidance on maintaining proper foot hygiene to prevent recurrence and keep this condition under control.
Corns and Calluses
What They Are: Hardened layers of skin from friction or pressure, often causing pain while walking.
How We Help: Professional removal of corns and calluses, protective padding, and advice on footwear modifications to reduce recurrence.
Plantar Warts
What They Are: Tough, grainy growths on the soles of your feet caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).
How We Help: We offer effective treatment options such as cryotherapy, laser therapy, or minor procedures to remove warts and alleviate discomfort.
Eczema and Dermatitis
What It Is: Red, itchy, inflamed skin that can crack and cause significant discomfort.
How We Help: Our team provides personalized care plans, including topical treatments and advice on avoiding triggers that can aggravate the condition.
Blisters
What They Are: Fluid-filled pockets caused by friction or irritation, which can make walking painful.
How We Help: We provide safe drainage when necessary, protective dressings, and advice on how to prevent future blisters from forming.
Dry and Cracked Heels
What It Is: Painful fissures or cracks in the heel due to dryness and pressure.
How We Help: We offer moisturizing therapies, exfoliation techniques, and provide recommendations for supportive footwear to prevent cracks from reoccurring.
Fungal and Bacterial Infections
What They Are: Conditions like fungal toenails (onychomycosis) or bacterial skin infections that can cause discoloration, odor, or discomfort.
How We Help: Specialized antifungal or antibiotic treatments designed to restore your feet to optimal health and eliminate infection.
Ulcers and Non-Healing Wounds
What They Are: Persistent or slow-healing wounds, often linked to diabetes or circulation issues.
How We Help: Our advanced wound care services, offloading solutions, and preventive strategies are designed to promote healing and protect your feet from further damage.
Why Choose Peoria Foot and Ankle?
At Peoria Foot and Ankle, we believe every patient deserves exceptional care tailored to their specific needs. Whether you’re dealing with a mild irritation or a chronic skin condition, our team blends compassionate care with the latest techniques to get you back on your feet—comfortably and confidently.
Let us help you take the first step toward healthier feet. Call us today to schedule your appointment and experience the Peoria Foot and Ankle difference!
Toenail Fungus
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a common condition that occurs when a fungus grows under the toenail. Fungi thrive in warm, damp environments, making your feet, especially toenails, a perfect breeding ground. While anyone can develop toenail fungus, it’s more commonly seen in older adults.
Symptoms of Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus usually begins as an infection in the skin of the feet (commonly known as athlete’s foot). The infection can spread to the toenails, often starting at the edge of the nail. As the fungus develops, you might notice:
Yellow or brownish discoloration on the nail
Thickened nails that become difficult to trim
Crumbly or brittle nails that break or peel easily
Deformed toenails that change shape or lift away from the nail bed
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek treatment to prevent the infection from worsening.
Treatment for Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus can be tricky to treat on your own, but at Peoria Foot and Ankle, we offer expert care to help restore your nail health. Our specialists can accurately diagnose your condition and recommend the best treatment options, which may include:
Topical Medications: Applied directly to the infected nail to help eliminate the fungus.
Oral Antifungal Treatments: Prescription medications that target the infection from within.
Laser Therapy: A non-invasive option that uses light to destroy the fungus under the nail.
Minor Surgical Procedures: In some cases, we may need to remove the infected nail to allow healthy regrowth.
Taking action early can help prevent the infection from spreading or causing permanent damage to your nails.
Why Choose Peoria Foot and Ankle?
If you’re dealing with toenail fungus, don’t wait for the condition to worsen. Peoria Foot and Ankle provides comprehensive care for toenail fungus and other foot-related issues. Our team of specialists is here to help you with fast and effective treatment options tailored to your needs.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward healthier, fungus-free nails!
Bunions
Bunion Treatment
A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base and side of the big toe, where the joint (called the metatarsophalangeal joint) becomes enlarged. This happens when the big toe moves out of its normal position, pushing toward the second toe. The misalignment causes irritation and pressure, especially when shoes rub against the area. As the bunion grows, it can lead to more pain, inflammation, and even other toe deformities like hammertoes.
Bunions often cause discomfort, redness, and tenderness, particularly from friction with footwear. As the joint moves with each step, the pain increases as the bunion enlarges. Over time, this can lead to bursitis (inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs around the joint) or arthritis, making it harder to walk without pain.
What Causes Bunions?
The most common cause of bunions is wearing shoes that are too tight or ill-fitting, which put pressure on the toe joint. While bunions are not directly inherited, they tend to run in families due to a shared faulty foot structure. Foot problems like flat feet, pronation, foot injuries, or neuromuscular issues can also contribute to bunion formation. It’s estimated that about 33% of people in Western countries will develop bunions over time.
Treatment for Bunions at Peoria Foot and Ankle
Since bunions are structural bone deformities, they won’t go away on their own. At Peoria Foot and Ankle, we focus on alleviating pain, reducing pressure, and preventing the bunion from worsening. Depending on your symptoms, common treatments include:
Protective Padding: Felt pads to reduce friction from shoes, helping alleviate irritation and inflammation.
Footwear Changes: Recommendations for properly fitted shoes that accommodate the bunion and reduce discomfort.
Orthotic Devices: Custom or over-the-counter orthotics to stabilize the joint and distribute pressure more evenly across the foot.
Foot Exercises: Stretching and strengthening exercises to maintain joint mobility and prevent stiffness.
Splints: Nighttime splints to help realign the toes and joint, especially for younger patients whose bones are still developing.
When Surgery Is Needed
In some cases, when conservative treatments don’t provide enough relief, surgery may be required to correct the bunion and restore function. Our specialists will work with you to assess the severity of the condition and determine if surgery is the best option.
Why Choose Peoria Foot and Ankle?
If you’re dealing with a bunion and the discomfort is affecting your daily activities, don’t wait. Peoria Foot and Ankle offers comprehensive care to help manage your symptoms and provide long-term solutions. Our experienced team is here to guide you through both non-surgical and surgical options to get you back on your feet without pain.
Call us today to schedule a consultation and find the best treatment plan for your bunion.
Corns & Calluses
Corn and Callus Treatment
Corns and calluses are both common foot conditions that occur due to friction and pressure, often caused by ill-fitting shoes or certain foot deformities. While these two conditions are similar, they differ in how they present and in the type of treatment they require. At Peoria Foot and Ankle, we specialize in diagnosing and treating both corns and calluses to help keep your feet healthy and pain-free.
What is a Corn?
A corn is a small, thickened area of skin that forms due to repeated pressure or friction, often from tight or poorly fitting shoes. Corns typically have a distinct, central core of hardened skin that can be painful, especially when pressure is applied. They usually develop on the tops or sides of the toes but can also appear on the soles of the feet.
What is a Callus?
A callus is a broader, thicker area of skin that forms in response to consistent pressure or friction. Unlike corns, calluses do not have a central core, and while they can become thick and rough, they typically aren’t as painful unless they grow too thick. Calluses often develop on the ball of the foot or the heel, and while they’re not always painful, they can cause discomfort if they get too large or irritated.
Symptoms of Corns and Calluses
Both corns and calluses can cause discomfort or pain, especially when wearing shoes. Common symptoms include:
Corns:
A small, raised bump on the skin
Hard, thickened skin with a central core
Pain or tenderness when pressure is applied
Redness or inflammation around the corn
Calluses:
Larger, flat areas of thickened skin
Rough or dry texture
Typically not painful unless very thick or irritated
Treatment for Corns and Calluses at Peoria Foot and Ankle
Both corns and calluses are treatable, and early intervention can help prevent further discomfort. Peoria Foot and Ankle offers a variety of treatment options based on the severity and location of the condition:
For Corns:
Padding and Protection: We can apply special cushions or pads around the corn to alleviate pressure and reduce friction from shoes.
Proper Footwear Advice: Choosing shoes with enough room in the toe box and avoiding tight shoes is crucial to prevent the development of corns. We’ll help you find the best footwear options.
Professional Removal: If the corn becomes painful or infected, we can safely remove it in-office, preventing further irritation.
Treatment of Underlying Conditions: If corns are caused by foot deformities like hammertoes or bunions, we’ll address the root cause to prevent future issues.
For Calluses:
Exfoliation and Moisturizing: We provide professional exfoliation treatments to remove thickened skin and recommend moisturizing therapies to prevent the callus from building up again.
Proper Footwear Recommendations: We’ll help you choose shoes that reduce pressure and friction on areas prone to calluses.
Professional Removal: If calluses become too thick or painful, we can carefully remove them in a controlled, sterile environment to ensure comfort and prevent infection.
Orthotics: If calluses are caused by abnormal foot mechanics, we may recommend custom orthotics to redistribute pressure and prevent recurrence.
Preventing Corns and Calluses
To prevent the development of both corns and calluses, follow these helpful tips:
Wear Properly Fitting Shoes: Ensure your shoes fit properly—neither too tight nor too loose. Shoes that rub against your skin or pinch your toes can cause friction that leads to corns and calluses.
Use Protective Pads: Special foot pads or cushions can help reduce friction and pressure on areas prone to developing corns or calluses.
Keep Feet Moisturized: Dry skin is more prone to developing calluses. Use a good foot cream to keep your feet hydrated and soft.
Monitor Foot Health: Regularly check your feet for signs of irritation or thickened skin, and address any issues early before they develop into corns or calluses.
Why Choose Peoria Foot and Ankle?
At Peoria Foot and Ankle, we understand how painful and frustrating corns and calluses can be, especially when they affect your daily activities. Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for all your foot health needs, from diagnosis to treatment and prevention.
If you’re struggling with corns or calluses, or if you have concerns about your foot health, don’t hesitate to contact us. Early treatment and proper care can prevent further discomfort and ensure you stay on your feet—comfortably! Schedule your appointment Now!
Plantar Warts
What Is a Plantar Wart?
A wart is a small growth on the skin that develops when the skin is infected by a virus. Warts can develop anywhere on the foot, but they typically appear on the bottom (plantar side) of the foot. Plantar warts most commonly occur in children, adolescents and the elderly.
There are two types of plantar warts:
- A solitary wart is a single wart. It often increases in size and may eventually multiply, forming additional satellite warts.
- Mosaic warts are a cluster of several small warts growing closely together in one area. Mosaic warts are more difficult to treat than solitary warts.
Plantar Wart Causes
Plantar warts are caused by direct contact with the human papilloma virus (HPV). This is the same virus that causes warts on other areas of the body.
Plantar Wart Symptoms
The symptoms of a plantar wart may include:
- Thickened skin. A plantar wart often resembles a callus because of its tough, thick tissue.
- Pain. Walking and standing may be painful. Squeezing the sides of the wart may also cause pain.
- Tiny black dots. These often appear on the surface of the wart. The dots are actually dried blood contained in the capillaries (tiny blood vessels). Plantar warts grow deep into the skin. Usually, this growth occurs slowly with the wart starting small and becoming larger over time.
Plantar Wart Diagnosis & Treatment
To diagnose a plantar wart, our foot and ankle surgeons in Peoria, az or Wickenburg, AZ will examine the patient’s foot and look for signs and symptoms of a wart.
Although plantar warts may eventually clear up on their own, most patients desire faster relief. The goal of treatment is to completely remove the wart.
The foot and ankle surgeon may use topical or oral treatments, laser therapy, cryotherapy (freezing), acid treatments or surgery to remove the wart.
Regardless of the treatment approaches undertaken, it is important that the patient follow the surgeon’s instructions, including all home care and medication that has been prescribed, as well as follow-up visits with the surgeon. Warts may return, requiring further treatment.
If there is no response to treatment, further diagnostic evaluation may be necessary. In such cases, the surgeon can perform a biopsy to rule out other potential causes for the growth.
Although many folk remedies for warts exist, patients should be aware that these remain unproven and may be dangerous. Patients should never try to remove warts themselves. This can do more harm than good.
Claw Toe
Deformity – Claw Toe Treatment
Claw toe is a toe deformity where one or more toes bend downward at both the middle and end joints, creating a “claw” shape. This condition typically affects the smaller toes (second, third, fourth, or fifth), and can lead to pain, difficulty walking, and irritation when wearing shoes. At Peoria Foot and Ankle, we offer expert care and treatment to help manage and alleviate the symptoms of claw toe and other toe deformities.
What Causes Claw Toe?
Claw toe primarily results from an imbalance in the muscles or tendons that control toe movement. This imbalance pulls the toes into an abnormal position, causing them to bend. Other factors that may contribute to the development of claw toe include:
Nerve Damage: Conditions such as diabetes or nerve disorders can affect the muscles controlling the toes, leading to deformities.
Poor Footwear: Wearing tight or poorly fitting shoes can place pressure on the toes, contributing to deformity over time.
Foot Structural Issues: High arches or conditions like bunions or hammertoes can create an environment that predisposes the foot to developing claw toe.
Symptoms of Claw Toe
Claw toe can cause a variety of symptoms, making it important to address the condition early. Common symptoms include:
Pain and Discomfort: Especially when wearing tight shoes, or during physical activities like walking or running.
Redness and Irritation: The bent toes may rub against shoes, causing skin irritation, inflammation, or even blisters.
Corn or Callus Formation: Constant friction from the toe rubbing against footwear may lead to the buildup of thickened skin.
Difficulty Walking: The abnormal positioning of the toes can affect your gait and balance, leading to discomfort while walking.
Treatment for Claw Toe
Early intervention is key to preventing claw toe from worsening. Our specialists will develop a customized treatment plan based on the severity of your condition. Treatment options include:
Footwear Adjustments: Wearing shoes with a wider toe box or shoes designed to accommodate toe deformities can reduce pressure and prevent further irritation.
Padding and Cushions: Special padding can be added to your shoes to cushion the affected toes and relieve pressure. This can also help prevent corns and calluses from developing.
Orthotics: Custom insoles or arch supports can help balance the foot’s structure and correct the muscle imbalances that contribute to claw toe.
Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Gentle exercises can help improve flexibility and reduce tightness in the toes and foot muscles.
Surgical Options: In more severe cases, where conservative treatments don’t provide relief, surgery may be necessary to straighten the toes and restore proper function.
Why Choose Peoria Foot and Ankle?
At Peoria Foot and Ankle, we specialize in treating toe deformities like claw toe. Our team of experienced podiatrists provides personalized care to help reduce pain, improve function, and prevent the condition from worsening. Whether you need conservative treatments or surgical intervention, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of claw toe, don’t wait. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get back to living a pain-free, active lifestyle!
Broken Toes
Broken Toes
A broken toe, also known as a fractured toe, is a common injury that can occur from stubbing your toe, dropping something heavy on it, or experiencing trauma. While broken toes are typically less serious than fractures in other parts of the body, they can still cause significant pain and discomfort. At Peoria Foot and Ankle, we provide expert care to help ensure that your toe heals properly and without complications.
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
If you suspect you’ve broken your toe, you may experience:
Pain or Tenderness: Especially when you touch the toe or move it.
Swelling or Bruising: Around the toe or foot.
Difficulty Walking: Bearing weight on the foot may become painful or difficult.
Visible Deformity: The toe may be out of place or pointed at an unusual angle.
Numbness or Tingling: This can indicate nerve involvement (though less common).
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to get evaluated by a professional to ensure proper healing and avoid complications.
How We Treat Broken Toes
At Peoria Foot and Ankle, we offer comprehensive treatment for broken toes to ensure they heal correctly. Here’s what you can expect from your treatment plan:
Rest and Ice: Keeping weight off the injured toe and applying ice can reduce swelling and ease pain.
Buddy Taping: For many broken toes, we’ll “buddy tape” the injured toe to an adjacent toe to stabilize it during the healing process.
Splints or Casts: In some cases, a splint or cast may be needed to immobilize the toe and prevent further injury.
Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help control discomfort during recovery.
Surgical Intervention: If the fracture is severe or the toe is misaligned, surgery may be needed to realign and stabilize the bones.
Why Choose Peoria Foot and Ankle?
While broken toes are often considered minor injuries, they still require careful evaluation and treatment to ensure proper healing. At Peoria Foot and Ankle, our experienced podiatrists are here to provide the best care possible for your broken toe. We’ll help manage your pain, guide you through the healing process, and make sure your toe heals correctly to prevent long-term issues.
If you’ve broken your toe or have any concerns about a toe or foot injury, don’t hesitate to contact us. Early treatment can make a huge difference in your recovery time and overall foot health!
Neuroma
Neuroma (Morton’s Neuroma)
A Morton’s neuroma is a thickening of the tissue around one of the nerves leading to your toes, commonly developing between the third and fourth toes in the ball of the foot. This condition can cause significant discomfort and, if left untreated, could lead to long-term nerve damage. At Peoria Foot and Ankle, we specialize in diagnosing and treating Morton’s neuroma, helping you find relief and get back to enjoying your daily activities.
What Causes Morton’s Neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma is often triggered by pressure or irritation on the nerve, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
Tight or High-Heeled Shoes: Shoes that squeeze the toes together can aggravate the nerve.
Foot Deformities: Conditions like bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet can increase pressure on the nerve.
Repetitive Activities: High-impact activities like running or sports that involve quick stops and starts can stress the foot.
Foot Injuries: Trauma or repetitive injuries can lead to the development of Morton’s neuroma.
Symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma
If you have Morton’s neuroma, you may experience:
Tingling, Burning, or Numbness: In the ball of the foot or between the affected toes.
Pain or Discomfort: Often worse when wearing tight shoes or standing for long periods.
Feeling of Something Inside Your Shoe: You might feel like there’s a stone or fabric bunched under your foot.
How Morton’s Neuroma Develops
Gradual Onset: Symptoms often begin after wearing narrow shoes or engaging in activities that put pressure on the feet.
Temporary Relief: Rest, massage, or switching to better footwear may temporarily relieve symptoms.
Progressive Symptoms: Over time, if untreated, the thickening of the nerve tissue can worsen, leading to longer-lasting symptoms.
How We Diagnose Morton’s Neuroma
At Peoria Foot and Ankle, we’ll thoroughly assess your symptoms and conduct a physical exam of your foot. In some cases, we may recommend imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or MRI, to confirm the diagnosis. Early diagnosis is essential to prevent the need for more invasive treatments.
Treatment for Morton’s Neuroma
Our goal is to relieve your symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening. Depending on the severity, we offer the following treatments:
Padding: Custom padding to reduce pressure on the nerve and provide relief.
Icing: Applying ice to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Orthotics: Custom foot inserts to support the foot and alleviate pressure on the affected area.
Activity Modifications: Avoiding activities that exacerbate foot pain.
Shoe Modifications: Switching to shoes with a wide toe box and avoiding high heels to reduce pressure on the toes.
Medications: Anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, can help with pain relief and reduce inflammation.
Injections: Corticosteroid or anesthetic injections to help reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief.
When Surgery May Be Needed
If conservative treatments don’t provide sufficient relief, surgery may be considered to remove the thickened tissue or release pressure on the affected nerve. The specific type of surgery and recovery time will depend on the severity of the condition.
Long-Term Management
Even after treatment, it’s important to take steps to prevent Morton’s neuroma from returning. Wearing proper footwear, using custom orthotics, and modifying activities to reduce foot pressure are essential for long-term relief.
At Peoria Foot and Ankle, our team is dedicated to providing personalized care to help you manage and treat Morton’s neuroma. If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort in your feet, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us today. We’re here to help you stay active and pain-free!