Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, where the joint becomes enlarged and misaligned. This condition often causes the big toe to lean toward the other toes, resulting in discomfort, swelling, and redness surrounding the joint. Symptoms include pain, difficulty wearing shoes, and stiffness, especially during walking or standing. Over time, bunions can lead to other foot issues, such as calluses, hammertoes, or arthritis. Bunions are caused by factors like genetics, wearing improper footwear, and foot stress from conditions like flat feet. Prevention involves wearing properly fitted shoes with enough room for toes to move. Treatment options range from non-invasive methods like orthotics to surgical correction for more severe cases. Early intervention helps prevent progression and improves quality of life. If you have an uncomfortable and painful bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment individualized to you.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Mount Pleasant and Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetes is a systemic condition that impacts the entire body, including the feet. Among the foot problems associated with diabetes are peripheral neuropathy, a type of nerve damage, and diabetic foot ulcers, which are open wounds that can become infected. Each year, between 40 and 60 million diabetic patients worldwide experience lower limb complications due to these issues. To prevent serious complications, it is important to remain vigilant about any changes in your feet. Perform daily inspections, paying close attention to cuts, scrapes, sores, discoloration, or unusual sensations. Early detection is important to manage and prevent more severe problems. If you notice any abnormalities or have concerns about your foot health, do not hesitate to seek medical care. A podiatrist can provide specialized treatment and guidance to help manage diabetes-related foot issues effectively. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist to ensure your feet stay healthy and protected.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Mount Pleasant and Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is an inflammatory condition that commonly affects the joints, including those in the feet. People with RA often experience symptoms such as pain, swelling, and stiffness in the smaller joints of the toes and forefoot. Over time, if not properly managed, this can lead to joint deformities, nodules, and even altered foot shape. Foot issues from rheumatoid arthritis can affect mobility and quality of life, making it harder to perform daily activities. A podiatrist can help alleviate discomfort by prescribing custom orthotics, addressing inflammation, and offering treatments to slow joint damage. They can also address associated skin problems, like corns and calluses, which often develop from pressure points on the feet. Early intervention and continuous care are essential to prevent further complications. If you have foot pain related to rheumatoid arthritis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Mount Pleasant and Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle pain can also result in swelling, and stiffness. While the pain may be sharp, dull, or throbbing, it often intensifies with movement or pressure. Swelling surrounding the ankle can indicate inflammation or injury, leading to visible puffiness and discomfort. Stiffness in the joint can limit mobility, making it difficult to flex or extend the ankle fully. Common causes of ankle pain include sprains, strains, and fractures from trauma or overuse. Conditions like arthritis or tendinitis can also contribute to chronic pain and swelling. A proper diagnosis by a podiatrist is vital to determine the underlying cause and guide appropriate treatment. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist to determine the cause and offer treatment solutions.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Mount Pleasant and Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.