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A bunion can make walking uncomfortable and finding comfortable shoes frustrating. It appears as a bump on the inside of the foot near the base of the big toe. Although it looks like an extra growth, the bump is actually part of a joint that has shifted out of its normal position. The big toe begins pointing toward the smaller toes, changing the shape of the front of the foot. Some bunions cause little discomfort, while others become painful when standing or walking. Symptoms include tenderness around the bump, pressure inside shoes, and pain near the second toe. The size of a bunion does not always reflect how much it hurts.

Bunions usually develop gradually because of the way the foot is built and how it handles pressure. Family history plays an important role, so people with relatives who have bunions may be more likely to develop them. Shoes with narrow toe areas can press against the joint and make symptoms worse. A stiff shoe upper can also irritate the bump. Pain may develop directly over the bunion or underneath the front of the foot. These changes can affect how comfortably you move throughout the day. Because other foot problems can also cause pain near the toes, an accurate examination helps identify the source.

A podiatrist can examine your foot, assess the position of your big toe, and discuss which shoes cause discomfort. They can recommend shoes with a wider toe area and softer materials to reduce pressure on the bump. Treatment can also include protective bunion padding, toe spacers, and supportive shoe inserts. These options aim to ease irritation and improve comfort, although they do not permanently straighten the joint. A podiatrist can evaluate pressure beneath the forefoot and determine which supports fit your needs. The goal is to make daily activities more comfortable while monitoring changes in the foot. If you have a bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management tips.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Richard DiMario of Maine. Our doctor 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 office located in York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetes can affect the nerves and blood vessels in the feet, making routine foot care important. Nerve damage can reduce the ability to feel pain, heat, or pressure. A small cut or blister may go unnoticed because it causes little discomfort. Reduced blood flow can also slow healing and make infection harder to control. Warning signs include numbness, tingling, and burning pain. Patients may also notice dry skin, calluses, or changes in foot color. Without proper care, a minor injury can develop into a deep wound and lead to serious infection or limb loss.

A podiatrist can examine the feet for skin damage, changes in sensation, and circulation problems. The exam also checks nail health and areas that receive excess pressure. Regular visits allow concerns to be found before they become harder to treat. A podiatrist can safely trim thick toenails and reduce calluses that could irritate the skin. Treatment also includes wound care, infection management, and pressure relief. Custom orthotics can spread weight more evenly across the feet. A podiatrist may recommend properly-fitted shoes that protect sensitive areas and give the toes enough room. These steps can lower the risk of rubbing, blisters, and sores.

Good diabetic foot care depends on recognizing changes early and receiving professional attention promptly. New swelling, warmth, or redness should be evaluated. Cracks, drainage, and open sores also require attention. A wound that does not begin healing deserves prompt care, even when it is painless. The podiatrist can determine how deeply the skin is affected and check whether infection is present. Diagnostic testing can assess blood flow or reveal damage beneath the skin. Care is then planned around the patient's circulation, nerve function, and foot structure. Consistent visits can help protect mobility and reduce the chance of severe complications. If you have foot complications from diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

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 Dr. Richard DiMario from Maine. Our doctor 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 office located in York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A stress fracture is a tiny crack in a bone caused by repeated pressure. In the foot, these injuries often affect the long bones that connect the toes to the middle of the foot. These bones absorb force when you push while walking or running. Pain usually begins gradually and becomes stronger with activity. The sore area may feel tender when touched. Swelling of the foot or bruising can develop. Unlike a sudden break caused by an accident, a stress fracture can develop without one clear injury. Daily movement may become painful.

A sudden change in activity is a leading cause of stress fractures. Running farther than usual or increasing exercise days can place more pressure on bones than they can handle. People who rarely walk far can also develop an injury after a busy vacation. Uneven ground adds to the risk. Changes in how the foot moves can increase risk when a bunion changes weight distribution. Shoes that lack proper support can also affect how the foot absorbs impact. A podiatrist can examine your walking pattern and identify factors contributing to the injury.

Treatment aims to protect the injured bone while it heals. A podiatrist examines the painful area and orders imaging to help confirm a stress fracture. Treatment options include a protective walking boot, crutches, or custom shoe inserts to help reduce pressure on the affected bone. A podiatrist also evaluates your shoes and may recommend a stiff-soled design that limits painful bending. Follow-up visits help track healing and guide a safe return to activity. Continuing to push through pain can delay recovery. If you have symptoms of a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Dr. Richard DiMario from Maine. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout can cause intense foot pain that appears with little warning. It develops when excess uric acid builds up in the body and forms needle-like crystals inside a joint. Uric acid is produced naturally and also comes from the breakdown of substances called purines, which are found in many foods. The kidneys normally remove uric acid from the blood. When too much remains, crystals can collect in joints and trigger inflammation. The first gout attack frequently affects the large joint of the big toe. The ankles and heels can also become painful.

A gout attack can begin suddenly, sometimes after a person goes to bed feeling fine. The affected joint can become swollen, stiff, and tender. It can also feel warm or appear red. Pain can last for hours or continue much longer. Several factors can raise the risk of gout, including family history, kidney problems, and excess body weight. Certain medications can also contribute. Foods high in purines and heavy alcohol intake can increase the risk of a flare. Without proper management, repeated gout attacks can damage joints and limit mobility.

A podiatrist can evaluate sudden foot pain and determine whether symptoms are consistent with gout or another foot problem. The examination can focus on the painful joint, swelling, and changes in movement. Because gout can resemble other forms of arthritis or a joint infection, an accurate diagnosis is important. A podiatrist can develop a treatment plan to address foot pain and protect joint function. Care can also focus on reducing pressure on painful areas and improving mobility after inflammation settles. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.  

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Richard DiMario from Maine. Our doctor 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 our office located in York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.