Bunions

A bunion is an enlargement of bone or tissue around the joint at the base of the big toe. The big toe generally turns in toward the second toe and the tissues surrounding the joint becomes swollen, tender and often painful. Bunions occur more commonly in women and can sometimes run in families, making some individuals genetically pre-disposed to this condition. People born with abnormal bones in their feet are more likely to form a bunion. Wearing narrow-toed, high-heeled shoes can also lead to the development of a bunion. The condition may become painful as extra bone and a fluid-filled sac grows at the base of the big toe.

Most common reasons for the development of a bunion:                  

• If the foots shape puts too much pressure on the big toe joint.
• Because bunions can run in families, some experts believe that the inherited shape of the foot makes some people genetically pre-disposed to developing a bunion.
• If the foot rolls inward or pronates too much when walking. 
• Flat Feet.
• Wearing shoes that are too tight.

Any of these situations can apply significant pressure on the big toe joint, which over time; will force the big toe out of alignment, bending it toward the other toes.

Early diagnosis is critical. When a bunion first begins to develop, taking a few simple steps such as wearing foam pads on the foot to protect the bunion, or devices called spacers to separate the first and second toes at night can help avoid a worsening of the condition.

If the bunion gets worse, resulting in severe deformity or pain, surgery is the most effective approach to realign the toe, relieve the pain and remove the bony bump (bunionectomy). There are many different surgical techniques that can be used to treat this condition depending on the individual’s situation.

To help our patients get relief from bunion pain Dr. Garvin might recommend, wearing wider shoes, orthotics, or foot pads. Treatment such as oral anti-inflammatories and injections can also help to relieve discomfort. However, Dr. Garvin can perform same day procedures, which will have patients comfortable after just a few weeks of recovery.

Warts on your feet?

Commonly known as plantar verrucae, the plantar wart is caused by the Human Papillomavirus. The virus attacks the skin through direct contact, entering through possibly tiny cuts and abrasions in the outermost layer of the skin. Infection typically occurs from moist walking surfaces such as showers or swimming pools. After the infection, warts may not become visible for several weeks or months. Because of pressure on the sole of the foot, the wart is pushed inward and a layer of hard skin may form over the wart. Depending on where the warts are located, some may cause pain when walking. A common misconception about plantar warts is that they have roots which can grow deep into the tissues and attach to the bone. This is not true. A wart only grows in the top layer of skin and although the wart may extend slightly deeper, this is generally due to walking, putting pressure on the affected area and pushing the wart deeper into the tissue.

Because plantar warts are spread by contact with moist walking surfaces, they can be prevented by not walking barefoot in public areas such as showers or communal changing rooms (wearing flip flops or sandals helps), not sharing shoes and socks, and avoiding direct contact with warts on other parts of the body or on other people. Humans build immunity with age, so infection is less common among adults than children. The virus can survive many months without a host, making it highly contagious. There are many different treatments for warts including topical acid, freezing, laser and surgery to name a few.

Warts on the bottom of the foot can look a lot like calluses, so when in doubt, it is best to have it looked at by a Dr. Garvin. So if you or a loved one is suffering with a painful wart that just won’t go away, call Dr. Garvin’s office today at 772-335-7171 and schedule an appointment. 

Athelete's Foot

Tinea Pedis (Athelete’s Foot)

Tinea pedis, otherwise known as athlete’s foot, is a fungal infection of the skin that causes itching, scaling and flaking on the bottom of the foot.  The infection is caused by Trichophyton, which are tiny microscopic organisms that live on the layers of dead skin our body produces.   Direct transmission occurs in damp, moist environments that are conducive to fungal growth where individuals tend to go barefoot.

It is important to maintain proper foot hygiene and recognize tinea pedis as it has the ability to spread to other crevices of the body, especially the groin.  Notably the bottom of one’s foot may exhibit redness and scaling.  Persistent itching and burning may ensue.  Scratching is discouraged as one can create breaks in the skin, allowing the individual to become susceptible to a secondary bacterial infection. 

Although there are many skin conditions that can mimic the appearance of tinea pedis, Dr. Garvin can readily diagnose this fungal infection through a simple laboratory test.  Treatment may be rendered with the daily use of antifungal creams and washes.  Coincided with a cream or wash, preventative care aims to make the infected area less suitable for fungal growth.  Feet should be washed daily with soap and water, drying thoroughly between the toes.  Excessive sweating should be controlled and treated.  Socks and shoes should be kept clean and dry.  Footwear that is breathable should be opted for.  Medicated powders are available for placement in more occlusive shoe types to help keep them dry.  Most importantly, avoid walking barefoot in public places such as showers, gym rooms, locker rooms and swimming pools, which are all high risk, fungal-loving environments.

Our goal here at Foot and Ankle Specialist of the Treasure Coast is to keep you healthy and walking comfortably.  So stay healthy and keep your feet pain free!