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Gregory Loo, DPM Board Certified Podiatrist and Surgeon

December 2024

Tuesday, 31 December 2024 00:00

All About Bunions

Bunions, medically known as hallux valgus, occur when the big toe shifts toward the smaller toes, causing a bony bump to form on the inside of the foot. This misalignment often develops gradually, with genetic factors and wearng ill-fitting footwear being common contributors. The protrusion can cause discomfort, especially when tight or stiff shoes rub against it, resulting in redness, swelling, or pain around the joint. As the toe deformity progresses, it may lead to uneven pressure distribution, sometimes causing pain beneath the ball of the foot. Certain non-surgical bunion treatments, like appropriate footwear and wearing custom orthotics, can help to relieve bunion symptoms. However, surgery  may become necessary when persistent pain interferes with your daily activities. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the bunion, offer specific treatments, and recommend strategies to prevent further progression. If you are suffering from bunion pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Gregory T. Loo, DPM of Elite Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

  • Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
  • Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
  • Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
  • Orthotics or foot inserts
  • Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Ahwatukee, and Phoenix, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Bunions
Tuesday, 24 December 2024 00:00

Healing Toe Fractures

Returning to your favorite sport after a toe fracture requires patience and care. Whether it is an acute injury or a stress fracture, the healing process depends on resting and avoiding pressure on the affected toe. Gradually reintroduce weight-bearing activities as your pain decreases and mobility improves. Wearing supportive footwear with stiff soles or custom orthotics can reduce stress on the toe during recovery. Stretching and strengthening exercises help restore range of motion and prevent stiffness. Overdoing it can delay healing. Always listen to your body as pain is a signal to back off. Before jumping back into full activity, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to ensure proper alignment and healing. They can guide you on the safest way to return to play, so you avoid setbacks or reinjury.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Gregory T. Loo, DPM from Elite Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Throbbing pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising on the skin and toenail
  • The inability to move the toe
  • Toe appears crooked or disfigured
  • Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Ahwatukee, and Phoenix, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What to Know About a Broken Toe

Plantar heel pain is a common condition characterized by sharp pain in the bottom of the heel, often felt in the morning or after long periods of rest. This pain is typically caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. Overuse, tight calf muscles, wearing improper footwear, and excessive weight can contribute to this condition. Repeated strain on the plantar fascia causes small tears, leading to pain and discomfort. Effective exercises for plantar heel pain include stretching the calf muscles, rolling a frozen water bottle under the foot to reduce inflammation, and performing toe stretches. Strengthening exercises for the foot and ankle, such as towel scrunches and resistance band exercises, can also improve flexibility and support. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Gregory T. Loo, DPM of Elite Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

  • Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
  • Wearing non-supportive shoes
  • Weight change           
  • Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Ahwatukee, and Phoenix, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Heel Pain
Tuesday, 10 December 2024 00:00

Foot Care Safety Tips for Rucking

Rucking is an activity that involves walking or hiking while carrying a weighted backpack, often over long distances and challenging terrain. Originally a military training exercise, it has become a popular fitness activity that combines cardio and strength training. The repetitive stress from carrying heavy loads over varying terrain can lead to a variety of issues, including blisters, calluses, or foot pain. Selecting appropriate footwear is vital for reducing these risks. Look for durable, supportive shoes with good arch support, cushioning, and traction suitable for the terrain and weather. Properly fitted shoes that allow toe movement and accommodate your foot shape are essential. Additionally, keeping feet clean and dry during rucking is key to avoiding blisters and fungal infections. If discomfort persists, a podiatrist can assess your feet and recommend custom orthotics for added support. If you experience unusual or chronic foot pain after rucking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Gregory T. Loo, DPM from Elite Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

  • Achilles Tendonitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains
  • Broken Foot
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Stress Fractures
  • Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Ahwatukee, and Phoenix, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Tuesday, 03 December 2024 00:00

CRPS and Foot Pain

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, or CRPS, is a chronic pain condition that can severely impact the feet, causing intense discomfort, swelling, and skin changes. CRPS often develops after an injury, surgery, or trauma, even if minor, when the nervous system overreacts, leading to persistent pain far beyond the original injury site. In the feet, CRPS may cause burning pain, heightened sensitivity to touch, temperature fluctuations, and skin color changes. The affected foot can become swollen and stiff, making movement difficult and sometimes causing muscle weakness. CRPS is most common in adults, but anyone with an injury may be at risk. Early diagnosis is important to manage symptoms effectively, often involving medications, targeted exercises, and nerve treatments. If you suffer from CRPS, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help improve function and prevent the condition from worsening.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Gregory T. Loo, DPM of Elite Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

  • Freiberg’s disease
  • Kohler’s disease
  • Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Ahwatukee, and Phoenix, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
 

Read more about Rare Foot Conditions

If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.

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