Hallux Valgus (Bunions)
Malignment of the great toe.
Possible Ball of foot Conditions
Information provided for educational purposes only. For diagnosis, individualized treatment, and medical advice please make an appointment to visit our qualified podiatrists. Northwest Foot and Ankle Specialists treats a variety of conditions not limited to what is listed here.
Symptoms
Pain and soreness around the great toe joint. There is also a visible bone protrusion that can be irritated with wearing shoes.
Causes
Bunions tend to run in the family and have a genetic predisposition that is often hastened by wearing poor shoewear.
Home Treatments
Wider shoes (many shoes now come with different width options), bunion splints, proper arch support, padding around the painful areas.
Surgery may be required
When to See a Doctor
Bunions are easier to treat early on and so try to see a doctor early in the progression of the condition.
Metatarsalgia
Pain in forefoot.
Symptoms
Pain and swelling in the forefoot.
Causes
Usually mechanical, such as from wearing poor shoes.
Home Treatments
Avoid walking barefoot, apply ice 20 minutes twice a day, add a Metatarsal pad into your shoes, proper shoewear and arch support.
When to See a Doctor
If the pain persists for more than one month.
Neuromas
A small benign tumor caused by compression of the nerve.
Symptoms
Burning pain in the forefoot, often feels like walking on a wadded up sock.
Causes
Usually wearing a tight shoe or local inflammation around the forefoot joints and nerves.
Home Treatments
Try wider shoes, good arch support, applying ice 20 minutes twice a day.
Surgery may be required
When to See a Doctor
Pain persists more than one month.