Podiatry Q & A

Which podiatry services are available?

The podiatrist at SMART Spine Institute & Surgery Center diagnoses and treats every type of foot and ankle problem for patients of all ages. You can also receive customized orthotics to treat flat feet and relieve pressure from other foot conditions.

What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a band of connective tissue that connects your heel bone to your toes. It supports the arches of your feet and acts as a shock absorber every time your heel hits the ground.

The most common causes of plantar fasciitis include:

• Starting a new activity
• High-impact activities, like running and ballet
• Tight calf muscles
• Tight Achilles tendon
• Foot arch problems
• Being overweight

What causes toenail fungus?

Toenail fungus occurs when a fungal microorganism enters your nail through a crack or tear in the toenail or surrounding skin. Once the microorganisms become established, they develop into a fungal infection.

As your infection progresses, your toenail begins to thicken and become discolored. Over time, the shape of the toenail may change, and the edge of the nail cracks and crumbles.

What are bunions?

A bunion is a deformity that develops in your big toe as pressure pushes the tip of your big toe toward the second toe. This causes the joint at the base of the big toe to bend and stick out, creating a bump that’s called a bunion.

The primary symptom of a bunion is pain. Bunions continue to worsen without treatment, eventually causing inflammation and swelling in the joint.

Footwear is the most common cause of bunions. You’re at a higher risk for developing a painful bunion when you wear shoes that don’t have enough room for your toes because they’re too narrow, too short, have a pointed toe, or high heels.

What causes hammertoe?

Hammertoe is another type of deformity that affects your second, third, or fourth toes. It occurs when the muscle that bends the middle toe joint becomes rigid, so the toe can’t relax or straighten, and the middle joint stays bent. Hammertoe causes pain and often interferes with your ability to move the toes.

When you have foot pain or experience any other foot and ankle problems, call SMART Spine Institute & Surgery Center or book an appointment with their podiatrist online