Bunions are structural deformities that affect the alignment of the big toe joint, often leading to discomfort and reduced mobility. This condition occurs when the first metatarsal bone shifts outward while the big toe angles inward, forming a noticeable bump. The imbalance in the foot structure places stress on surrounding tissues, which can lead to inflammation and pain. Bunions do not develop overnight. They form gradually as pressure builds on the joint. Understanding how bunions develop is essential for recognizing symptoms early and preventing further complications.

Common symptoms include aching pain around the base of the big toe, swelling, and visible enlargement of the joint. Many individuals report increased discomfort during activity or after long periods of standing. Wearing tight shoes can worsen symptoms, leading to redness and irritation. Some people experience stiffness in the toe joint, which limits flexibility and affects walking patterns. As the condition progresses, the toes may crowd together, creating additional pressure points. These symptoms can interfere with daily routines and reduce overall comfort if left untreated.

Risk factors for bunions include inherited foot mechanics, improper footwear, and repetitive stress on the feet. People with a family history of bunions are more likely to develop the condition due to a similar bone structure. Wearing shoes that compress the toes, such as narrow or high-heeled styles, increases the likelihood of joint misalignment. Activities that involve constant pressure on the forefoot can also contribute. In some cases, underlying conditions like inflammatory joint disease may accelerate bunion formation. Identifying these risk factors allows for preventive strategies that support foot alignment and function.

The causes of bunions center on mechanical stress and structural imbalance within the foot. Over time, uneven weight distribution forces the joint out of place, resulting in the characteristic bump. Managing bunions involves reducing pressure, improving foot support, and maintaining proper alignment. Custom orthotics, wider shoes, and activity modification can help alleviate symptoms and slow progression. If you have bunions and notice worsening pain or difficulty with footwear, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist to receive a thorough evaluation and personalized care plan.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact the foot specialists of Academy Foot and 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 Southlake, Keller (Fort Worth), Hurst, North Richland Hills, Flower Mound, Argyle, and Denton, TX. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition that can affect the feet and make movement difficult. Many people report sharp pain in the soles or tops of the feet. The pain can come and go. It may last for long periods and worsen with standing or walking. This foot pain can change the way a person walks and lead to strain in the ankles, knees, hips, and lower back. The cause of foot pain is not fully understood, but it may involve sensitive nerves and irritation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that supports the foot. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, check motion, and identify pressure points. Treatment plans include custom orthotics, which are shoe inserts designed to improve support and reduce strain, along with supportive devices and monitoring. If you have foot pain as a result of fibromyalgia, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for help.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact the foot specialists from Academy Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Southlake, Keller (Fort Worth), Hurst, North Richland Hills, Flower Mound, Argyle, and Denton, TX. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Running can take many forms, including jogging, sprinting, and treadmill training, and each places different demands on the feet. Jogging is steady and lower impact, while sprinting involves powerful bursts that increase stress on muscles and joints. Treadmill running offers a controlled surface, but may alter natural movement patterns. One important factor in all forms of running is proper foot strike, which refers to how the foot meets the ground. Poor foot strike can lead to strain, discomfort, and overuse injuries. These issues may develop gradually and affect performance and comfort. A podiatrist can assess gait, identify imbalances, and recommend proper support or footwear to reduce stress on the feet and ankles. If you notice foot pain during or after running, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with the foot specialists from Academy Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Southlake, Keller (Fort Worth), Hurst, North Richland Hills, Flower Mound, Argyle, and Denton, TX. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Arthritis in the feet affects the joints and can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness that interfere with daily activities. Osteoarthritis is the most common type. It develops when the protective cartilage in the joints gradually wears down. This can lead to pain when walking, reduced flexibility, and joint swelling. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to attack healthy joint tissue. It commonly affects the same joints in each foot and can lead to inflammation, joint damage, and changes in foot shape. Psoriatic arthritis affects the joints and skin, causing swollen toes, thick toenails, and scaly skin patches. Gout is another painful form of arthritis that usually affects the big toe joint. It develops when uric acid crystals collect in the joint, leading to sudden pain, redness, and swelling. A podiatrist can diagnose the type of arthritis and provide treatment to reduce pain and improve movement. If you have symptoms of arthritis in the feet, toes, or ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management tips.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact the foot specialists from Academy Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Southlake, Keller (Fort Worth), Hurst, North Richland Hills, Flower Mound, Argyle, and Denton, TX. . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.