A tailor's bunion, also known as a bunionette, is a bony protrusion on the outside of the foot near the base of the little toe. This condition occurs due to the misalignment of the fifth metatarsal bone, often caused by inherited structural abnormalities, wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, or repetitive stress on the foot. Unlike the more well-known bunion, which affects the inside of the foot at the base of the big toe, a tailor's bunion affects the outer side of the foot. Both conditions can cause pain, swelling, and redness, but a tailor's bunion specifically impacts the small toe area. To manage a tailor's bunion, wear properly fitting shoes with a wide toe box, use padding to reduce pressure, and consider orthotic inserts for better foot alignment. Non-surgical treatments, such as anti-inflammatory medications can alleviate symptoms. In severe cases, surgery may be required to correct the deformity. Proper diagnosis is essential, as tailor's bunions can be confused with other issues like hammertoes or arthritis. For an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist.

If you are suffering from bunions, 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?

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 our office located in Pembroke Pines and Plantation, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Dragging your feet might seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can actually be a sign of a serious condition known as drop foot. Drop foot occurs when you have difficulty lifting the front part of your foot, causing it to drag while you walk. This problem can arise from various health issues affecting the muscles, nerves, or structure of the leg or foot. Common causes can include peroneal nerve injury, which affects movement and sensation in the lower leg, foot, and toes. Other conditions leading to drop foot include peripheral neuropathy from diabetes, muscular dystrophy, stroke, and multiple sclerosis. Symptoms of drop foot include difficulty in walking, a stepping gait where the foot slaps the ground, and potential numbness or tingling in the foot. Diagnosis by a podiatrist involves a physical exam and tests such as electromyography, or EMG, nerve conduction studies, and imaging scans. Treatment depends on the cause and can include orthotic devices, nerve stimulation, or surgery. If you are experiencing trouble walking normally, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

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.

Pregnancy often comes with side effects like swollen feet, or edema. This common issue is the result of your body retaining more fluid and the growing uterus putting pressure on your veins. To manage swollen feet and ankles, start by reducing sodium intake and increasing potassium with foods like bananas, potatoes, and spinach. Drinking plenty of water may seem counterintuitive, but staying hydrated helps your body release excess fluids. Elevating your feet, especially at the end of the day, can also help to reduce swelling. Gentle exercises, like walking and swimming, help boost circulation, while wearing loose, comfortable clothing avoids restricting blood flow. Consider wearing waist-high compression stockings if you spend a lot of time on your feet. A relaxing foot and leg massage can work wonders for reducing fluid buildup. Additionally, staying cool and avoiding prolonged standing can significantly reduce swelling. If edema persists or becomes severe, it's suggested that you seek medical help from a podiatrist who can evaluate the problem, and suggest further treatment as needed.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Daniel Bell, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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.

A broken toe can result from various causes, including direct trauma, stubbing the toe against a hard surface, or dropping a heavy object on the foot. Sports injuries, accidents, and even sudden, forceful movements can also lead to a toe fracture. Common symptoms include severe pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. While minor fractures may heal with rest and home care, it is important to know when to call a podiatrist. Seek medical attention if there is intense pain, visible deformity, numbness, or if the toe is cold or pale, indicating poor blood flow. Persistent swelling and an inability to move the toe also warrant a professional evaluation. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment is vital to prevent complications and ensure proper healing of a broken toe. If you have any of the above symptoms and believe you may have fractured your toe, it is suggested that you seek prompt attention from a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat broken toes.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Daniel Bell, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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.

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, are characterized by dry, thickened skin on the heels that splits or cracks. This condition often occurs due to factors such as dry weather, excessive standing or walking, improper footwear, or lack of proper foot care. When the skin becomes dry and loses its elasticity, it can crack under pressure, leading to painful fissures that may bleed or become infected, if left untreated. Prevention of cracked heels involves regular moisturizing to keep the skin hydrated and supple. Use a thick, emollient foot cream or lotion containing ingredients like urea or glycerin to help soften and moisturize dry skin. Exfoliating the heels regularly with a pumice stone or foot file can help remove dead skin cells and prevent the buildup of calluses. Additionally, wearing properly fitting shoes with adequate support and cushioning can reduce pressure on the heels and minimize the risk of developing cracked heels. If you have developed cracked heels that persist or become infected, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for treatment.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Daniel Bell, DPM from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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.