Dr. Smith and patient

Foot Problems

Foot problems come in many shapes and forms, but one thing is always true: foot pain is never normal. One of the following common conditions may be the culprit, and orthotics may be used in managing your condition. Dr. Smith listens to you, makes a diagnosis and plans your treatment to do away with your foot pain.

BunionsFlat Feet Hammer Toes
Heel PainNail ProblemsWarts

Bunions

If your foot sports a large bump or protrusion at the big toe joint, you may have a bunion. Bunions are a very common foot problem in which the joint becomes misaligned. The resulting deformity is unattractive and hard to fit with shoes. Many factors can contribute to bunions, including genetics, high heels and poorly fitted shoes.

Why see a podiatrist? Bunions will not correct themselves; however, Dr. Smith can fit you with orthotics to correct your foot mechanics. Bunion surgery may also be required. Whether your treatment is surgical or non-surgical, Dr. Smith offers trusted, gentle and convenient care.

Flat Feet

The arch of your foot makes it strong. When the arch loses strength, the bones in the foot begin to collapse or flatten. This weakness strains the foot from both ends. Some people are born with flat feet, and others experience flat feet as a result of other medical conditions or wear and tear.

Why see a podiatrist? Flat feet cause discomfort, but more importantly, they put a strain on other parts of the feet and can affect the entire body. Dr. Smith will work with you to determine treatments that will help you feel great when you’re on your feet.

Hammer Toes

Sometimes toe joints buckle or curl under due to a muscular imbalance. This condition is called a hammer toe. The buckled joints may be rigid, making movement difficult and painful. They may also rub against shoes, causing corns and other skin irritations.

Why see a podiatrist? Hammer toes may tighten and protrude more over time. Early correction by Dr. Smith eases your discomfort and helps prevent future issues.

Heel Pain

When a foot becomes weak or imbalanced from flat feet, plantar fasciitis or other medical conditions, heel pain can result. The ligament joining the heel to the ball of the foot, called the plantar fascia, is often involved in heel pain. It may be too loose, too tight or swollen.

Why see a podiatrist? The distress from heel pain often affects your gait, which puts unnecessary strain on other parts of your body. Dr. Smith controls and relieves your symptoms through in-office procedures, orthotics and medications.

Nail Problems

Toenail issues can be the cause of pain and tenderness, making it difficult to walk and painful to wear shoes. Many people experience in-grown toenails, which may be caused by genetics or improper care. Nails may also become thick and discolored due to medical conditions. In addition, sports and work activities may result in injury to the toenail.

Why see a podiatrist? While nail problems may seem unimportant or “too small to bother with,” they should be addressed. For certain individuals, these problems may become difficult to manage. Proper evaluation and treatment by Dr. Smith will take care of the pain, so you can remain active.

Warts

Warts start growing after a virus invades your skin. Eventually, the wart forms a hard growth on the foot, which can produce pain and bleeding. The wart virus is often transmitted when infected people go barefoot in public places with extra moisture, such as locker rooms and showers at the gym or pool. Children, teens and people with allergies or weakened immune systems are more susceptible to warts.

Why see a podiatrist? Warts can spread and recur. Dr. Smith will eliminate warts through medication or simple surgical techniques. You can prevent the spread of warts by wearing sandals or shoes in public places.