Recognizing the Symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma, a condition affecting the nerves in the foot, can be a source of significant discomfort and pain. Understanding the symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management. One of the unmistakable signs of Morton's neuroma is a sharp, burning pain in the ball of the foot, typically between the third and fourth toes. This pain often feels like there is a pebble or a fold in the sock, causing discomfort with every step. Some individuals may experience tingling or numbness in the affected toes, adding to the discomfort. The pain tends to worsen with activities that involve pressure on the foot, such as walking or wearing tight shoes. Relief is often found by removing the footwear and massaging the area. Ignoring the symptoms can lead to increased pain and complications, so early intervention is key to managing this condition effectively. If you suspect you have Morton's neuroma, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment options.

Morton's neuroma can be highly uncomfortable. If you are experiencing the symptoms of Morton's neuroma, please consult with one of our chiropodists from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is a Morton’s Neuroma?

Morton’s neuroma is a condition in which a nerve located in the ball of the foot between the third and fourth toes thickens due to compression or irritation. Common causes of Morton’s neuroma include wearing shoes with high heels or narrow toe boxes, participating in running or court sports, an injury or trauma to the area, or pressure being placed on the nerve from foot deformities such as bunions or hammertoes. Left untreated, Morton's neuroma may result in permanent nerve damage.  

Symptoms

Symptoms of Morton’s neuroma often start gradually and worsen over time. Typical symptoms  include: 

  • Foot pain
  • Tingling, burning, or numbness in the affected foot
  • The unique sensation that something is inside the ball of the foot or that there is something stuck in your shoe while walking

Treatment

Non-surgical treatments for this condition may include padding or icing the affected foot, wearing an orthotic device, modifying activities or shoes to reduce pressure on the foot, and taking medications or getting injections to reduce pain and inflammation. Surgery may be needed if non-surgical treatments are ineffective. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON

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Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Managing Plantar Warts

Plantar warts can be annoying and uncomfortable, especially for those who spend time in communal areas or have weakened immune systems. Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus, also known as HPV. You are more likely to come in contact with the types of HPV that cause plantar warts if you frequent places such as locker rooms, showers, and pool decks while walking barefoot. Children between the ages of five and sixteen are particularly susceptible to these warts. Additionally, individuals with a weakened immune system have a higher risk of developing plantar warts because their bodies struggle to combat HPV. Regarding treatment, the primary goal is the complete removal of the plantar wart. Salicylic acid, available over the counter or by prescription, is one course of treatment. Additionally, cryotherapy involves using liquid nitrogen at an in-office procedure to freeze off the wart. For more information on managing plantar warts, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist. 

Plantar warts can be uncomfortable or even painful. If you’re suffering from warts on your feet, please consult with one of our chiropodists from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

What Does a Plantar Wart Look Like? 

Plantar warts are fleshy growths that generally have a rough, grainy texture. They may look and feel like a callus and are usually small and can grow individually or in clusters. Plantar warts may have small, black dots at their center that are actually tiny blood vessels. Warts interrupt the natural lines of your skin. 

Treatment Options

  • Salicylic acid - A chemical solution applied directly to the wart
  • Cryotherapy - Freezing the wart off with liquid nitrogen
  • Minor surgery - Removing the wart through excision
  • Laser treatment - A concentrated beam of light is used to remove the wart
  • Wearing comfortable shoes and socks to avoid irritating the wart
  • Over-the-counter medications for pain relief
  • Patches to keep pressure off the warts

Plantar warts can go away on their own, but this may take several months to years. If your plantar warts are bothering you, seeking medical treatment is suggested. If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON

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Everyday Foot Care

Everyday foot care is essential for maintaining healthy and comfortable feet. Some important things to think about in your daily foot care routine can include wearing proper footwear, selecting socks that help keep the feet dry and fungus free, and performing good foot hygiene. Additionally, practicing foot exercises can help to keep the feet strong and flexible, and can include toe curls and ankle circles. Choose shoes that fit well, provide adequate support, and match the activity that you are engaged in. Avoid wearing tight, ill fitting shoes that can cause blisters and discomfort. Change socks daily, especially if your feet tend to sweat, and wash your feet everyday with mild soap and warm water. Make sure to dry them thoroughly, including between the toes, to prevent fungal growth. Trimming your toenails straight across can help to avoid ingrown toenails. It is beneficial to apply a good foot moisturizer or cream that can keep your skin hydrated. Checking your feet daily for any cuts, blisters, sores, or changes in color is important to add to your everyday foot care routine. Early detection of issues can prevent them from becoming more severe. If you would like to learn more about how to keep your feet in good working order, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist who can provide you with useful tips.

Caring for your feet is not just something done at the chiropodist’s office. Good foot care starts at home. If you would like to learn more about daily foot care practices, please consult with one of our chiropodists from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

There are many things that you can do at home to help care for your feet, including: 

  • Wearing shoes and socks that fit properly
  • Washing the feet daily with soap and water
  • Drying the feet thoroughly
  • Applying moisturizer to the soles and heels of the feet
  • Taking a walk and exercising the feet regularly
  • Doing foot stretches and strengthening exercises 

A chiropodist can help figure out a manageable foot care routine for you to keep your feet healthy. If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON

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Causes and Effective Treatments for Aching Toes

Toe pain can be a persistent and uncomfortable issue, often affecting our daily activities and mobility. Various factors can lead to toe pain. One common culprit is wearing improper footwear, such as shoes that are too tight, narrow, or high heeled. Toe injuries, such as stubbing or jamming, can result in pain, swelling, or even fractures. Conditions including arthritis can lead to chronic toe pain, making it challenging to move comfortably. Ingrown toenails, often caused by improper toenail trimming or wearing tight shoes, can be excruciating. Bunions, corns, and calluses can also create toe discomfort. Fortunately, there are effective treatments for toe pain. Simple measures such as switching to comfortable, well-fitting shoes can provide relief, in addition to resting the affected toe if the injury is acute. Taking over-the-counter pain relievers can temporarily alleviate discomfort. For chronic conditions, wearing custom orthotics may be recommended. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be a necessary treatment to consider. To ensure long-term toe health, it is essential to identify the cause of your toe pain and seek appropriate medical advice. If you have toe pain, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a chiropodist who can effectively provide you with relief and treatment options.

Toe pain is common and can have a variety of causes. Causes can range from a broken toe to an ingrown toenail. Many types of toe pain can be corrected, but any toe pain that inhibits your activities for an extended period should be discussed with a chiropodist. If you suffer from toe pain, please consult with one of our chiropodists from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist can help you maintain the health of your feet.

Common Causes of Toe Pain 

  • Trauma or fracture
  • Cuts, sores, or bruises
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Gout
  • Turf Toe
  • Morton’s neuroma
  • Blisters
  • Corns
  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Plantar warts
  • Athlete’s Foot

Symptoms of Toe Pain

  • Toe deformity
  • Burning
  • Numbness
  • Toenail deformity
  • Wart or ulcer
  • Swelling
  • Redness

When to See a Chiropodist

  • Bleeding or severe swelling
  • Trauma, such as a broken bone
  • Discoloration or extreme swelling
  • Inability to bear weight
  • Persistent pain
  • Wounds that won’t heal

Diagnosis of Toe Pain

A chiropodist can conduct a thorough examination of the painful toe or toes in order to determine the best course of treatment. The exam may include assessing the tenderness of the area, taking an X-ray or other diagnostic test, or assessing your gait and range of motion. A discussion of what led to the advanced pain issue may follow. Included will likely be a health history, as well as a list of medications you are taking and other previous injuries you may have sustained.

Treatment for Toe Pain

With such a wide range of possible causes for toe pain, treatment can be varied in scope and length. Sometimes, the chiropodist will recommend lifestyle and activity changes. In cases of trauma or other injuries, X-rays or imaging tests will likely be used to determine the severity of the problem, particularly if any bones have been broken. Treatment may also include injections of pain-relief medication or anti-inflammatory drugs. Certain injuries will require the splinting, bracing, or wrapping of injured toes. Orthotics or special shoes may be prescribed in cases of bone deformities and gait issues. Removal of warts, calluses, and corns may be needed. In other cases, such as with patients who have diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, ongoing treatment may be required to avoid more serious problems. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON

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