Flat feet, or pes planus, occur when the arches of the feet are flattened, causing the entire sole to make contact with the ground. This can result in pain and cause difficulties with walking. In some cases, people with flat feet may benefit from surgical correction. Flat foot reconstruction aims to reshape the foot by repairing or realigning the bones, tendons, and ligaments to support the arch. The specific technique used can vary, based on such factors as the patient’s anatomy and the severity of their symptoms. While flatfoot surgery often results in improved mobility and relief from pain, the recovery process can take several months and may require the use of a cast or orthopedic boot. A podiatrist can determine if non-surgical treatments are still viable or if surgery is the best course of action. If you have foot problems related to flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Romeo Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors 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 offices located in Washington and Shelby Townships, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout and bunions are common sources of big toe pain, but they arise from very different causes. Gout is an inflammatory arthritis caused by uric acid crystals that accumulate in the joint. This leads to sudden and intense pain, swelling, and tenderness, particularly in the big toe. Gout often strikes unexpectedly and can be worsened by consuming foods and beverages rich in purines. Bunions are bone deformities that develop gradually due to biomechanical issues in the foot. They occur when the big toe pushes against the second toe, causing a bony bump on the side of the foot. A podiatrist can provide relief for bunions by recommending custom orthotics, shoe modifications, and, if necessary, surgery to alleviate pain and correct the deformity. Both gout and bunions can be managed with proper care from a podiatrist for long-term relief. If you are experiencing big toe pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Romeo Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Washington and Shelby Townships, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Congenital foot conditions encompass a range of abnormalities that affect foot structure and function from birth. One common condition is metatarsus adductus, where the front part of the foot curves inward, often resolving on its own but sometimes requiring intervention. Clubfoot is another prevalent condition characterized by a twisted appearance, causing the foot to point downward and inward. This condition typically necessitates early treatment to prevent mobility issues. Calcaneovalgus involves an upward flexion of the foot at the ankle and can lead to a flat appearance, often improving with conservative management. Additionally, congenital vertical talus presents a more complex challenge, with the foot positioned in a rigid, flat state that may require surgical intervention for correction. If your child has been born with one of these conditions, it is suggested that a podiatrist is promptly consulted so the appropriate treatment can begin.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Romeo Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Washington and Shelby Townships, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Morton's neuroma involves the thickening of a nerve in the foot, most often found between the third and fourth toes. It results from persistent pressure and irritation, which can lead to pain, numbness, or tingling in the toes and the ball of the foot. Symptoms of Morton’s neuroma include a burning sensation or the feeling of a small lump under the foot. Women are more commonly affected, likely due to wearing narrow, high-heeled shoes that force the bones of the feet into unnatural positions. Being overweight can also increase the risk. A podiatrist can diagnose Morton's neuroma by examining the foot and evaluating the pain’s location and severity. They can offer such treatment solutions as custom orthotics, changes in footwear, or in some cases, injections to reduce inflammation. If conservative approaches are not effective, surgery may be considered. If you have symptoms that may indicate Morton's neuroma, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Romeo Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Washington and Shelby Townships, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton's neuroma affects the foot, specifically involving a thickening of the tissue that surrounds a nerve leading to the toes. It is often found between the third and fourth metatarsals. This condition typically causes significant discomfort, resulting in a sharp, burning pain in the ball of the foot. Individuals may also experience tingling or numbness in the toes, which can feel like there is a pebble in the shoe. Symptoms often worsen during activities that put pressure on the forefoot, such as wearing tight shoes or high heels. Swelling may also occur, further complicating the discomfort. Recognizing these symptoms early is essential for effective management and relief. If you suspect you have Morton's neuroma, it is suggested that you seek medical advice from a podiatrist who can make a proper diagnosis and help you explore treatment options.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Romeo Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Plantar Fibroma

A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.

What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?

While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.

What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?

There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.

Treatment and Prevention

A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:

• Steroid injections
• Orthotics
• Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump 

Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Washington and Shelby Townships, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.