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There are several ways a broken toe may occur. These may include dropping a heavy object on the toe, stubbing it on a piece of furniture, or consistent impact that can cause a stress fracture. One of the first symptoms felt may be severe pain. Many people may also notice bruising and swelling around the affected toe and surrounding areas. A cast may be needed if the fracture is severe, and the toe may look deformed. After the injury occurs, it can be beneficial to elevate the foot, and this can be helpful in reducing any swelling that may be present. Some patients find that support and stability may be increased if the affected toe is taped to the toe next to it. As the healing process begins, it is important to rest the foot as often as possible. When the splint or tape is removed, the toe's range of motion can increase as stretching exercises are performed. If you have broken your toe, it is advised that you speak to a podiatrist who can recommend the correct treatment.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Coastal Foot & Ankle Wellness Center, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Saint Augustine, and Palatka, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The medical term referred to as gout will typically affect the big toe and surrounding areas. Typical symptoms may generally include severe pain and discomfort in the area of the big toe, heat that may radiate from the foot, in addition to swelling and redness. It occurs as a result of elevated uric acid levels in the blood, which causes crystals to form in the joints. There may be several reasons for this to happen, including diabetes, high blood pressure, or congestive heart failure. Additionally, eating foods that have elevated fructose levels may lead to the onset of gout, in addition to drinking excess alcohol, or eating red meat or seafood. Successful prevention and treatment of gout may begin with eating healthy foods and implementing a gentle exercise program. If obesity exists, it may be helpful to lose excess weight which may aid in protecting the joints. If you are having gout attacks, it is advised to speak to a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Coastal Foot & Ankle Wellness Center, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Saint Augustine, and Palatka, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning?

Warts are very common and come in many different forms. Plantar warts, also known as verrucae warts, differ from most other warts for various reasons. They only form on the sole of the foot and are a result of the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can easily be caught in places where there is moisture such as, locker rooms, pool areas, or saunas. Unlike most warts, plantar warts grow inward instead of outward. They plant themselves in the thick skin on the bottom of the foot, which can result in discomfort or pain. Discomfort and pain will increase when pressure is applied to the foot. Visually, they are flat, circular and have a small dent in the middle. Usually, they are dry with a black spot in the middle. If you think you might have plantar warts on the sole of your foot, then it is suggested you speak with a podiatrist in order to learn about treatment options.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Coastal Foot & Ankle Wellness Center, LLC. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Saint Augustine, and Palatka, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.