Bunions are a foot problem that can change the shape of the big toe joint. A bunion forms when the big toe moves toward the other toes while the joint at its base becomes more prominent. This can create a bump along the inside of the foot. Bunions may develop slowly, and symptoms can seem minor. Over time, the area may become painful, swollen, or irritated by shoes.

Several factors can contribute to bunion development. Genetics can play an important role because inherited foot structure may make someone more likely to develop a bunion. Wearing high heels can increase pressure on the front of the foot and push the toes into a narrow space. Arthritis can contribute to changes that encourage bunion formation. Causes include abnormal foot mechanics and repeated stress. Bunions are not caused by one factor alone.

Common symptoms include pain around the big toe, redness, and tenderness. People may develop thickened skin or a callus where the foot rubs against footwear. The big toe may lean toward the second toe, making shoes difficult to wear. Risk factors include arthritis and footwear that squeezes the toes. Activities that place repeated pressure on the forefoot may also make symptoms noticeable.

A podiatrist can examine the foot, evaluate alignment, and determine whether arthritis or another condition is contributing to symptoms. Treatment may begin with wider shoes, protective padding, or other ways to reduce pressure. Custom orthotics may help improve foot mechanics when appropriate. If pain continues, a podiatrist may discuss treatment options and determine whether surgery is needed to correct alignment. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions. 

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Shalonda Davidson, DPM of Instride Carolina Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

Falls can lead to painful injuries and a loss of confidence, especially for older adults. Several health and environmental factors can increase the risk of falling. Arthritis, poor balance, and vision loss can make safe movement more difficult. Certain medications can also affect steadiness. Inside the home, slippery floors, poor lighting, and cluttered walkways can create hazards. Footwear also matters. Shoes that fit poorly or lack proper support can make walking less stable. Understanding these risks is an important part of preventing falls and protecting long-term mobility.

The feet provide the foundation for balance and movement, so foot problems can affect stability. Pain, weakness, or changes in foot structure can alter the way a person walks. Properly fitting shoes with non-skid soles can provide better traction. High heels and loose slippers can increase instability. Home safety is also important. Clear pathways, secure rugs, and good lighting can reduce tripping hazards. Handrails on stairs and grab bars in bathrooms can provide added support. Fall prevention works best when personal risks and environmental hazards are considered together.

A podiatrist can evaluate the feet and ankles for problems that could affect balance or walking. An examination can assess foot structure, joint movement, and areas of pain. A podiatrist can also evaluate shoe fit and recommend footwear that provides better support and stability. Custom orthotics can help improve foot alignment or redistribute pressure when appropriate. Treatment for painful foot conditions can also make walking more comfortable and secure. For patients with balance concerns, a podiatrist can identify foot-related factors that could increase fall risk and develop a plan to address them. If you have symptoms of increased fall risk, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Shalonda Davidson, DPM from Instride Carolina Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Morton’s neuroma is a painful nerve problem that commonly develops near the base of the third and fourth toes. The nerve becomes enlarged and inflamed, which can lead to burning pain, tingling, or numbness in the ball of the foot. Some people describe the sensation as feeling like something is stuck beneath the forefoot. Female runners may face an increased risk because running places repeated stress on the front of the foot. Women who regularly wear narrow, pointed-toe shoes or high heels may experience additional pressure that crowds the toes and irritates the nerve.

Active women with flat feet may be particularly prone to developing a neuroma. Symptoms often begin gradually but can become more intense as the nerve continues to enlarge. Running on hard surfaces can repeatedly stress the forefoot, while certain footwear can increase compression around the toes. Morton’s neuroma is not visible on an X-ray, so diagnosis depends largely on symptoms and a physical examination. A podiatrist may press along the affected area or perform a movement that produces a noticeable click. Identifying the problem early is important because continued nerve irritation can eventually cause lasting damage.

A podiatrist can evaluate forefoot pain and determine whether Morton’s neuroma may be causing a runner’s symptoms. Treatment depends on how far the condition has progressed. Professional options include custom orthotics or other supportive devices designed to reduce pressure on the irritated nerve. More advanced cases may require surgery to release or remove the affected nerve. A podiatrist can also evaluate foot structure and determine whether other factors, such as flat feet, are contributing to repeated compression. Persistent burning, tingling, or numbness should not be ignored when it begins interfering with running or daily movement. If you are experiencing ongoing pain in the ball of the foot that may indicate Morton’s neuroma, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Shalonda Davidson, DPM of Instride Carolina Foot Care. Our doctor 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 office located in Statesville, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Night splints can reduce morning heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis or a tight Achilles tendon. While a person sleeps, the feet usually point downward. This position allows the plantar fascia, a strong band along the bottom of the foot, and the calf muscles to shorten. When the person stands, these tissues stretch suddenly and can hurt. A night splint holds the foot at a gentle upward angle, keeping these areas stretched through the night. This can make the first steps of the day less painful.

The effectiveness of a night splint depends on the cause of pain and consistent use. Research suggests that splints help some patients with plantar fasciitis, especially when symptoms have lasted several months. However, they do not provide the same relief for everyone. Comfort also affects success. A splint that feels bulky, hot, or too tight can disturb sleep and be difficult to use regularly. Designs include rigid boots, softer braces, and straps that pull the toes upward. A podiatrist can recommend a suitable style and check that it holds the foot correctly without placing too much pressure on the skin.

A night splint works best as one part of a treatment plan. A podiatrist can examine the foot, identify the source of pain, and determine whether a splint is appropriate. Treatment also includes custom orthotics, wearing supportive shoes, or activity changes. The podiatrist can adjust the splint angle and explain how long it should be used each night. Numbness, worsening pain, or skin irritation should not be ignored. People with diabetes, poor circulation, or a reduced feeling in their feet need professional guidance before using one. Night splints require patience and consistent use, but they can offer meaningful relief for selected patients. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine if night splints are right for you.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Shalonda Davidson, DPM of Instride Carolina Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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