January 2024

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that results from the thickening of tissue around a nerve leading to the toes. This ailment commonly affects the area between the third and fourth toes, causing discomfort, burning sensations, or often the feeling of a small pebble inside the shoe. Individuals experiencing Morton's neuroma may notice pain that intensifies while walking or standing, often accompanied by numbness or tingling. As the condition progresses, sufferers might observe a change in the shape of their toes or find relief by massaging the affected area. Early detection is essential, as ignoring the signs may lead to increased pain and potential complications. If you suspect you have developed Morton's neuroma, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can help you with successful treatment options.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Foothill Podiatry Clinic. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Grass Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

In the world of fashion, high heels have long been a symbol of elegance and femininity. Women don these stylish shoes to exude confidence and sophistication, often enhancing their overall appearance. The elevated stature achieved by wearing high heels can create a sense of empowerment, both physically and mentally. However, this fashion choice comes with a price, impacting the feet in various ways. The arching of the foot, a characteristic of high heels, can lead to strain on the calf muscles and alter the body's natural alignment. In addition, prolonged wear may contribute to foot pain, bunions, and other podiatric issues. Despite the potential risks, many women continue to embrace high heels as a form of self-expression. A podiatrist can further explain how wearing high heels can affect the feet. If you have foot, toe, or ankle pain as the result of wearing high heels, it is suggested that you visit this type of doctor for an exam and treatment.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Foothill Podiatry Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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

Navigating a child's heel pain, particularly in the context of Sever's disease, demands careful attention. This condition primarily targets children during their adolescent growth spurts, typically affecting girls aged 8 to 13 and boys aged 10 to 15. As children grow, their bones elongate from growth plates, soft areas of cartilage near the ends of bones, which eventually solidify. Sever’s disease arises when the calf muscle and Achilles tendon excessively pull on the immature heel bone, which continues to develop until approximately age 15. Athletes engaged in high-impact sports face a higher risk for Sever's disease, but less active children can also be affected. Symptoms include pain on the sides or margins of the heel, which may increase with activities like standing on tiptoes or running. Diagnosis relies on symptoms, as X-rays cannot confirm Sever's disease but may rule out other causes. While symptoms may persist for several months, prompt recognition and appropriate intervention can help children effectively manage and alleviate the heel pain associated with Sever’s disease. For help in managing your child’s heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Foothill Podiatry Clinic. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Grass Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

An ankle fracture can be a challenging ordeal, demanding careful consideration and, in some cases, surgical intervention. When a fracture is severe or involves multiple bone fragments, surgery becomes a viable option to restore stability and facilitate proper healing. The surgical procedure typically involves realigning the fractured bones and securing them with metal plates, screws, or rods. The goal is to reconstruct the anatomy of the ankle, allowing for optimal recovery and minimizing the risk of long-term complications. Post-surgery, patients enter a rehabilitation phase that involves a gradual return to weight-bearing activities and physical therapy to restore strength and flexibility. If you are considering ankle surgery, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this is the correct choice for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Foothill Podiatry Clinic. Our doctors 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 Grass Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout, a form of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, often the big toe, requires careful attention to dietary choices to manage symptoms effectively. A key principle is moderating the intake of purine rich foods, as purines contribute to elevated uric acid levels. Reducing the consumption of organ meats, seafood, and certain legumes can help mitigate the risk of gout attacks. Adequate hydration is essential, as it supports the elimination of uric acid through urine. Incorporating low fat dairy products, which have been associated with a lower risk of gout, can be beneficial. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight is vital, as excess weight can contribute to higher uric acid levels. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are encouraged, as they provide essential nutrients without significantly impacting uric acid levels. If you have developed gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, and guide you toward healthy food choices.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Foothill Podiatry Clinic. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Grass Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.