Foot pain affects people of all ages and makes everyday activities, such as walking or standing, uncomfortable. It may develop gradually from repeated stress or appear suddenly after an injury. Symptoms include aching, tenderness, or stiffness, depending on the underlying problem. Some people experience pain in the heel, while others feel discomfort near the toes or along the arch. Common risk factors include wearing shoes that don't fit properly, spending long hours on your feet, and having a certain foot structure. Arthritis, plantar fasciitis, and bunions are three common causes of foot pain. Understanding these conditions can help you recognize symptoms and seek appropriate treatment before discomfort interferes with daily life.

Arthritis develops when inflammation or changes within a joint cause pain and stiffness. Osteoarthritis occurs as protective cartilage gradually wears down. Rheumatoid arthritis develops when the immune system mistakenly attacks joint tissue. In the feet, arthritis commonly affects the big toe or other joints, making ordinary movement uncomfortable. Symptoms include swelling and reduced flexibility. Risk factors include aging, previous joint injuries, and family history. Plantar fasciitis is another common cause of foot pain, usually producing sharp heel discomfort during the first steps in the morning or after resting. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a strong band of tissue supporting the arch, becomes irritated. Prolonged standing, increased activity, and inadequate footwear can increase the risk.

Bunions are bony bumps that form near the base of the big toe when the joint gradually shifts out of alignment. The big toe may lean toward the smaller toes, creating pressure and irritation around the joint. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and difficulty wearing narrow shoes. Bunions develop because of inherited foot structure, although wearing tight footwear may worsen discomfort. Other foot pain causes include tendon problems, stress fractures, and nerve irritation, so symptoms should not be ignored when they persist or worsen. People with diabetes should seek early podiatric care because foot injuries become serious more quickly.

A podiatrist identifies the cause of foot pain by reviewing your symptoms and examining your feet, walking pattern, and joint movement. X-rays or other imaging tests may be recommended when a fracture, arthritis, or structural change is suspected. Treatment depends on the diagnosis and may include wearing supportive footwear, custom orthotics, or targeted care for inflamed tissue. For severe bunions or advanced joint damage, surgical options may be discussed, when appropriate. If foot pain affects your daily activities or does not improve, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Kent DiNucci, DPM from Ankle and Foot Clinic . 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 Omaha, NE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A high ankle sprain affects the strong supporting ligaments connecting the flower leg bones above the ankle. These two bones form a stable space around the ankle joint. This type of sprain differs from a low ankle sprain, which usually damages ligaments on the outside of the ankle. A high ankle sprain usually occurs when the foot turns outward as the leg rotates inward. Contact sports, sudden changes in direction, and falls can produce this force. A broken ankle can occur at the same time.

Pain is usually felt above the ankle and between the lower-leg bones. It can become sharper when the foot bends upward, when climbing stairs, or when pushing off the toes. Swelling and bruising can develop, although they may be less noticeable than with a low ankle sprain. Patients can place weight on the foot despite a serious injury. A podiatrist will ask how the injury occurred and examine the area. The examination includes checking ankle movement, stability, and the ability to bear weight. X-rays can reveal a fracture or widening between the bones. An MRI scan can show ligament damage that is not visible on an X-ray.

Treatment depends on the ligament damage and whether the ankle remains stable. A podiatrist can protect the joint with a brace, walking boot, or cast. Crutches may reduce pressure on the ankle. Follow-up examinations help track healing and determine when weight-bearing activity can safely increase. Recovery takes longer than it does for a low ankle sprain. Returning to sports too soon can lead to continued pain, weakness, or instability. When the lower leg bones have separated, surgery may be required to restore their position. A podiatrist can recommend a gradual return to activity after the ligaments have healed. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM from Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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

An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. This can cause pain, redness, and tenderness along the nail border. Drainage or infection may develop. Wearing tight shoes can press against the nail and worsen irritation. Walking may become uncomfortable, especially when the toe rubs against footwear. Other causes include cutting nails too short, rounding the corners, or having naturally curved nails. People who sweat heavily or put repeated pressure on the toes may also face greater risk.

Many ingrown toenails improve with early care, but surgery may be recommended when pain continues or the nail repeatedly grows into the skin. A podiatrist may suggest surgery when there is a significant infection, recurring inflammation, or a nail shape that makes conservative care unsuccessful. Surgery can provide longer-lasting relief by removing the portion of the nail causing the problem. It may make daily activities more comfortable.

During a nail procedure, the podiatrist first numbs the toe with a local anesthetic. For a partial nail avulsion, only the affected edge of the nail is carefully removed. This preserves the healthy portion. A complete nail avulsion removes the entire toenail and may be considered when the whole nail is causing problems. The podiatrist may also treat the nail root to reduce regrowth. The toe is then cleaned and covered with a dressing.

Healing usually involves keeping the toe clean and following the podiatrist's instructions for dressing changes. Wearing roomy shoes can reduce pressure while the toe heals. Avoiding unnecessary pressure can support recovery. Your podiatrist may also recommend limiting activities that place stress on the toe. If you have a painful ingrown toenail that needs surgery, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this procedure is right for you. 

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM of Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet. It can cause itching, discoloration, and cracks in the skin. These changes often appear between the toes but can develop on other parts of the foot as well. The infection may cause skin to look dry or scaly, making it easy to confuse with other skin problems. Foot psoriasis can create similar symptoms, including scaling and discoloration. Because the two problems may look alike, an accurate diagnosis is important before treatment begins. Using the wrong treatment can allow symptoms to continue or become worse.

One important difference is that athlete’s foot is caused by a fungus, while psoriasis is related to the immune system. Athlete’s foot can also spread from one person to another, unlike psoriasis. The location and appearance of symptoms may provide clues, but these features do not always make the cause clear. Athlete’s foot often produces cracking or peeling between the toes. Psoriasis may affect other parts of the body in addition to the feet. When skin changes continue, or the diagnosis is uncertain, professional evaluation can help determine what is actually causing the problem.

A podiatrist can examine persistent skin changes on the feet and determine whether athlete’s foot or another condition may be responsible. Since fungal infections and psoriasis require different approaches, identifying the correct cause can guide appropriate care. A podiatrist may evaluate the location and appearance of affected skin while considering other symptoms. Further testing may be appropriate when the diagnosis is unclear. Professional care is especially valuable when itching, cracking, or discoloration continues despite previous treatment or begins interfering with comfort. Receiving the correct diagnosis can prevent unnecessary treatment and help address the underlying cause of the skin changes. If you have ongoing symptoms that may indicate athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM from Ankle and Foot Clinic .  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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