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The joint that is affected by a bunion is located on the side of the big toe. A bunion appears as a large, bony protrusion, and it can occur for different reasons. These can consist of genetic factors, or from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. Common symptoms that are typically associated with bunions can include swelling, redness, and toe pain. Many patients notice that there are corns and calluses that form on top of the bunion. This can be a result of excess friction that is caused by shoes rubbing against the bunion. It is beneficial to wear larger shoes that can accommodate the bunion, as this may provide mild relief. If you notice an abnormal bump on your big toe, please consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose this ailment and offer you treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our doctors of Coral Desert Foot & Ankle. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in St. George and Kanab, UT, and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Children’s feet grow much faster than an adult’s. Because of this, children often outgrow their shoes. On average, children between the ages of 1 and 3 will need new shoes two to three times per year. Children between the ages of 3 and 10 will typically need new shoes one to two times per year. However, every child’s rate of growth is unique. It is important to keep an eye on the fit of your child’s shoes, as wearing shoes that are too small or too large can cause various foot problems to develop. For more information on how to choose the right shoes for your child and how to help children maintain the health of their feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist. 

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our doctors of Coral Desert Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. George and Kanab, UT, and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A fungal infection of the skin on the feet is known as athlete's foot. It is often uncomfortable and may appear unsightly. Blisters can develop between the toes and the skin is generally red and itchy. Peeling skin may occur on the sole of the affected foot, and the toenails can become discolored. The fungus that causes this type of infection lives in warm and moist environments. These can consist of public swimming pools and shower room floors. It is beneficial to wear appropriate shoes while frequenting these areas as this may help to prevent the spreading of athlete's foot. Treatment methods can include applying topical antifungal medication, and this may help to provide mild relief. If you are afflicted with this ailment, please speak with a podiatrist who can determine what the best treatment is for you.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our doctors from Coral Desert Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. George and Kanab, UT, and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.