Choosing the right shoes plays an important role in easing bunion pain. A bunion develops when the top of the big toe shifts toward the lesser toes, as the base of the toe shifts out of alignment. This results in a bony bump that can make wearing shoes uncomfortable. Shoes that are narrow or have pointed toes squeeze the forefoot and press against the bunion, which increases pain and can force the smaller toes to bend. To reduce pressure, shoes should have a wide toe box that gives the toes space, and low heels under two inches that help distribute weight evenly across the foot. Materials like soft leather or flexible fabric can reduce rubbing against the deformity. Added shoe depth allows room for calluses, corns, or inserts that support proper alignment. A podiatrist can guide you in finding appropriate shoes and orthotics to manage the condition. In more severe cases, surgery may be an option if conservative measures do not provide relief. If you have painful bunions, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Daniel Bell, DPM of Florida. Our doctor 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 our office located in Pembroke Pines and Plantation, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Bumps on the bottom of the foot, such as plantar fibromas, are often benign growths that develop in the tissue beneath the skin, known as the plantar fascia. However, other conditions like calluses or bone spurs can also cause similar lumps. Plantar fibromas are firm, rubbery lumps that can vary in size and may cause discomfort or pain, especially while walking or standing. The exact cause of plantar fibromas is unclear, but factors like genetics, trauma, or repetitive stress on the feet can contribute. Symptoms include localized pain, swelling, and sometimes a noticeable lump under the arch of the foot. In some cases, the fibroma or lump can interfere with movement and cause difficulty with footwear. Treatment options include stretching exercises, orthotic insoles, corticosteroid injections, and surgical removal, in more severe cases. A podiatrist can provide a thorough diagnosis and tailored treatment plan to relieve discomfort and prevent further complications. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Daniel Bell, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Pain from plantar fasciitis develops when the thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot becomes irritated or inflamed. This fascia connects the heel bone to the toes and supports the arch with every step. Common causes of plantar fasciitis include repetitive stress from long-distance running or standing for extended periods of time, as well as sudden changes in activity levels. Wearing shoes that lack adequate support, frequently using flip-flops, or walking barefoot on hard surfaces can also place additional strain on the heel. Structural factors such as flat feet or very high arches may increase pressure. Tight calf muscles and a shortened Achilles tendon can limit flexibility and pull excessively on the fascia. Over time, small tears may form, creating persistent heel pain that is often most noticeable first thing in the morning. A podiatrist can identify the underlying cause and recommend the best treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms of plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Daniel Bell, DPM  from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

The foot and ankle bones work in harmony to create balance, stability, and graceful movement while dancing. Each step involves coordinated motion through stages of flexion, extension, and rotation supported by muscles and tendons that control strength and precision. Dancers rely heavily on these structures, making them prone to injuries such as sprains, tendonitis, and stress fractures from repetitive strain or overuse. Proper foot alignment and strength are essential for safe and fluid motion. A podiatrist can assess foot mechanics, treat injuries, and recommend exercises or custom orthotics to enhance performance and prevent future issues. If pain or instability is affecting your dance practice, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on effective dance injury prevention tips.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Daniel Bell, DPM from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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